Submitted Photo An artist works on a piece of artwork during NOTSTOCK.

Ellie Scarbrough , Comm 281

NOTSTOCK — a portmanteau derived from Woodstock, Flatstock, and Minot’s mantra, “Why Not Minot?” — is an annual live, hands-in, hands-on arts event held at Minot State University every fall since 2007.

The event aims to celebrate the arts along with creating opportunities for the audience to hear and see art and create alongside artists.

“One of my favorite things about NOTSTOCK is that it gives students and others in the community opportunities to step into the world of art and to try mediums that they have maybe always wanted to learn or have been curious about,” said Lauren Price, MSU art major.

NOTSTOCK originally started as an idea and conversation about poster art in the music industry between Laurie Geller, MSU vice president of academic affairs, and Bill Harbort, MSU art professor.

2007 marked the first NOTSTOCK, a one-day event- involving one printmaker, Jay Ryan, which had sparked an interest in many on campus. Seventeen years later, the one-day event has seamlessly evolved into a now three-day event. NOTSTOCK brings art enthusiasts together from all over the area including several high school art classes visiting from Minot and surrounding areas.

This year’s guests include three designers and printers, a ceramic artist, a poet and literary artist, and regional bands.

Mike Tallman, a Southern California designer known for his work with musicians like Paul McCartney and Phish, will be live printing throughout the event and presenting on Sept. 20. Carolyn Adkins, a Milwaukee-based graphic designer, and illustrator with music industry clients such as Billy Strings and Lotus will also be printing live and presenting on Sept. 20. Chris Gray, a graphic designer and partner at Half Hazard Press, will bring his expertise in design and illustration, working with high-profile clients like Ram Trucks and Summer Camp Music Festival. He will present on Sept. 19.

Their artworks will be available for viewing and purchase at the MSU Northwest Arts Center from Sept. 5 – 21.

WORDSTOCK returns with Erin Dorney, a conceptual poet from upstate New York. She will present her work on Sept. 19 and lead workshops and live poetry readings throughout the event.

“NOTSTOCK is always fun for everyone to enjoy,” said Charlese Bell MSU art major. “My favorite part is printing fun designs on a t-shirt or tote bag to keep. Regardless of your experience, it gives you the opportunity to try out new creative things you’ll end up loving!”

Attendees can enjoy DIY screen printing throughout the event, whether it be on paper, shirts, tote bags, or pants. The designs are set up for all to try with assistance from volunteers. There are also opportunities to engage in different forms of pottery.

POTSTOCK will feature ceramic artist Krissy Ramirez. She will showcase her work, influenced by her experiences growing up on the Arizona-Mexico border, through demonstrations and a presentation on Sept. 19. Her ceramics will also be featured at the Northwest Arts Center.

New this year, ROCKSTOCK invites participants to explore North Dakota’s ancient history by sifting through soil samples for artifacts. This activity will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 19-20 in the MSU Dome parking lot.

For theater enthusiasts, Sarah Honerman, MSU assistant professor and director of theatre, will conduct Improv & Movement workshops at 10 a.m. on Sept. 19 and 20 in Aleshire Theater. Attendees can also enjoy DIY screen printing and pottery activities throughout the event.

The Minot State University Diversity Council will be collaborating with the Minot Air Force Base and NOTSTOCK to bring CULTURESTOCK to our campus on Saturday, Sept. 21.

“You cannot miss NOTSTOCK this year! Whether you’re an artist or not, NOTSTOCK has something for everyone,” said Eva Bloom MSU art major. “Create cool clothes, listen to local music, write poetry, and throw a pot! What’s not to love?”

The event will conclude with a closing reception from 6-9 p.m. on Sept. 21 at Prairie Sky Breads in downtown Minot, featuring artist talks, live music, and refreshments. The reception is open to all.