Be a part of the 2nd annual

Chetek Community art  project!

This year's theme is "Local History is National History!"

"If you missed out last year, here is your chance to participate for 2026!

What is it?

The Chetek Public Arts League has been awarded a $2500 matching funds grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board as part of Wisconsin’s America250 celebration. The CPAL will celebrate this event with an exhibit of artworks created by ybu based on the theme “America250-Local History is National History.” Artwork will be displayed outside on banners throughout the summer.

How it works:

Everyone is invited to join us in making art.

To participate, starting April 2nd, pick up registration materials at Chetek City Hall or the Calhoun Memorial Library during regular business hours. When you register you will receive a free 6”x8” canvas and complete registration information.

Artwork will be completed by participants and returned to the CPAL by Thursday, April 30th. In the spirit of America250, everyone is invited to participate and all submissions will be included in the exhibit.

When all artworks have been collected, they will be reproduced on weatherproof banners. In early June these will be hung on the fence adjacent to the downtown city parking lot where they will be available for public viewing 24/7 into October. Banner hanging day will be observed with a celebration of the exhibit addressing the value of art in all aspects of our lives, including our nation’s shared history, locally and nationally, as well as recognizing all those who submitted art for the project."

Theme for the art:

The theme of the project, Local History is National History, celebrates America’s 250th birthday by inviting participants to consider events that happened over the past 250 years at the national level as well as the local level that have all resulted in the life we have here today. Anyone seeking inspiration for the project is encouraged to visit the Chetek Area Historical Museum for ideas.

All are welcome:

These painting opportunities are intended to bring members of our community together in shared creative expression, and to support and encourage participants who may be hesitant to take part on their own.  Doing art with others enriches the activity and gives it meaning.  We welcome all community members, regardless of skill level, to join us."

If you would like to create with others:

"The Chetek Public Arts League has scheduled four free COMMUNITY PAINT EVENTS for anyone interested in participating in “Americ250-Local History is National History.”  These shared painting sessions will be held at the Calhoun Memorial Library on Thursday, April 9th at 6:00 pm, Tuesday, April 14th at 1:30 pm, Friday, April 17th at 3:45 pm, and Tuesday April 21st, at 1:30 pm. The April 9th session will occur during the Try It Club time slot, and the April 17th session during Teen Time, but anyone is welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them.  A free 6”x8” canvas will be provided for each participant and acrylic paints and markers, pencils, and brushes will be available for use at the event.  All ages are welcome (parent, please, with under 16).  We encourage you to join us and bring a friend regardless of your skill or experience level. 

Attendance is not required for participation in the project.