While local artists are currently a little damp, ones from across the state have shown their support and willingness to contribute to the Taube. But all of the flooding chaos has taken some of the opportunity away for the time being. The Taube has had to reschedule not only exhibits, but fundraisers and classes as well.
Nancy Walter, executive director for the Taube museum, has found both strains and positive outcomes for the local art museum located in downtown Minot.
"It's been interesting," she said.
Article Photos
Amber Zolondek/MDN - - Nancy Walter, Taube Museum of Art executive director, right, helps customers at the Taube’s annual garage sale fundraiser in downtown Minot.
With the water encroaching on their space, the Taube had to evacuate the lower level, cancel three fundraisers, and close for about a month. This put a strain not only on the artists and the community, but income-wise, she said, it has been difficult having to close down for such an extended period.
But the Taube rallied with a comeback last week, hosting a rummage sale that ran through Saturday.
Other than local artists who have had homes flooded, contributors from across the state have shown support for the Taube and community of Minot by offering to donate their work. Now that the museum is getting things back on track, Walter said that the show will go on in August and September with artists' exhibits.
"It has affected operations tremendously," Walter said. "There is so much work to be done."
The next exhibit is tentatively set to open Aug. 16, while planned fund-raisers will be put on hold for resched-uling due to the difficulty in traffic and restoration of neighborhoods.
Having both opportunity in her grasp and burden on her shoulders, Walter has found that the 2011 Souris River flood has shaped a range of emotions, but she hopes to restore the order of things soon.
Coming up
As summer continues, the Taube will host the annual Great Tomato Festival Aug. 10 in the All Seasons Arena located at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds. Although working with limited amounts of volunteers and time, Walter said she and her co-workers plan to craft an inviting social event in hopes of closing out the season on happier terms.