Mercer, WI – The Friends of the Mercer Public Library have selected Cedar Nelson as the first Mercer Public Library Artist in Residence for 2024. Nelson’s work will be featured in exhibits and events at the library from now through the end of March 2024.
Nelson will share her work at an Opening Reception on Thursday, January 25 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Mercer Public Library. This event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be served. Nelson will present brief remarks about her work at 5:00 p.m.
The Friends of the Mercer Public Library selected four Artists in Residence for 2024. Following Cedar Nelson’s first quarter residency, the library will welcome oil painter McCall Hocking beginning in April, photographer Aline Fetter in July, and dot artist Sandy Winkelman in October.
“We are delighted with Cedar’s work and are happy to welcome her as an artist in residence at the library this year,” said library director Teresa Schmidt. “We received some fantastic applications for our artist in residence program and selecting our 2024 artists was a challenge. It’s exciting to have the Friends of the Library support art in the Northwoods and to add so many exhibits and art events to our schedule.”
Watercolorist and block printer Cedar Nelson is a resident of Ironwood, where she raises a small flock of Icelandic sheep. In that relaxed setting, she finds her creative expression deeply influenced by her connection to the natural beauty of the Northwoods. Since her retirement from teaching art and her return to the Midwest, Cedar has integrated herself into the vibrant local art scene in Ironwood, Michigan, participating in events like the Emberlight Festival, First Fridays, and the Range Art Studio Tour, where her creations captivate fellow artists and art enthusiasts.
Nelson will be teaching two block printing workshops at the Mercer Library during her residency: a workshop for kids in third grade and older on Saturday, February 17 and a workshop for teens and adults on Saturday, March 9. Both classes are free, but space is limited, and registration is required. Call the library at 715-476-2366 to register.
The Mercer Library Artist in Residence program is sponsored by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library. Each quarter the library will welcome a new artist for exhibits and workshops for the public. For more information, visit the library’s website at mercerpubliclibrary.org or call the library at 715-476-2366.