January 15 – March 9, 2008 —

The biennial exhibition Spirit: A Celebration of Art in the Heartland opens at the Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) on March 15 and features 72 artists and nearly 140 artworks representing media from oil paint to bronze, fiber to ceramic, and styles from traditional cowboy art to cutting edge contemporary. On April 4 and 5, 2008, MONA is at the center of the Nebraska visual art world as over 500 guests come together to celebrate the art of Nebraska in a very special way at the Museum’s major fundraising event.

Under the talented leadership of Chairs Sharon and Bill Griffin, Vice Chairs Tami and Jerry Hellman and Beth and Clay Smith, and their very active Spirit Committee members, they have chosen an outstanding selection of artists and planned a splendid array of culminating weekend activities.

The Spirit Patron Package starts on Friday evening, April 4, with the Patron Preview Reception. Those attending the Reception have the first opportunity to meet the artists and purchase artwork at the special “No Haggle/No Hassle” price. On Saturday, April 5, patrons can enjoy crane viewing at Rowe Sanctuary, a tour of Kearney’s Trails and Rails Museum, and afternoon tea at Kearney’s historic Frank House including an artist demonstration or a tour of Geo. Spencer Vineyards in Gibbon. Golf at Kearney Country Club or Meadowlark Golf Course is also an option, weather permitting.

The Gala Dinner and Art Auction, taking place at MONA, features an improved “pavilion style” tent and the silent and live auctions include a truly grand spectrum of the following Nebraska artists of today.