A new Grand Forks art exhibit by the name of “Rise and Reclaim” ends on Mar. 31, 2025. The “Rise and Reclaim” art show is to celebrate International Women’s Day. This 2nd Annual Art Show will be held at Grand Forks Art Center, and the show is free, fun, and open to the public, welcoming victors between the hours of 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
All of it has been thoughtfully curated by the ERA Now Arts for Vets Women’s Funds, combining creativity, community and celebration. International Women’s Day was founded Feb. 28, 1909, in New York City. International Women’s Day was organized by the Socialist Party of America all at the suggestion of activist Theresa Malkiel. However, this day was not officially celebrated worldwide until 2011. This day was established to celebrate the achievements of women, highlighting gender equality and inspiring continuous action.
Every year, International Women’s Day establishes a theme, and this year it is “Accelerated Action.” The name of the art show drawn from the theme, “Rise and Reclaim,” stemmed from two action verbs connected to the two women who are familiar with accelerating action. Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise” serves as an inspiration point for the word rise, while Maxine Water’s historical phrase “Reclaiming my Time” as the inspiration for the word “reclaim.”
The displayed art pieces were submitted by local artists throughout January, with submissions due on Jan. 30. This event is meant to bring people together to celebrate women and what they bring to the table. It is also about people bringing other people together through a passion and talent like art to bring another kind of voice to the importance of women.
In every promotional for this event, the main one being “Visit Grand Forks,” there is one quote that sticks out: “to truly include women, means to openly embrace their diversity or race, age, ability, faith, and body image. Worldwide women must be included in all fields of endeavor.” It all shows the significance of the art show, which not only highlights women’s contributions but celebrates their diversity, giving empowerment and inclusivity.
This gathering is a place for people to connect, reflect, and appreciate the impact women have on the world. It is an art with purpose, community, and celebration all rolled into one. You can attend this event to enjoy the creativity but also to embrace the stories, struggles, and successes of women worldwide.
Zoe Booth is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected]
