Minnesota History Player - Wanda Gag

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$942
Fund Source
Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund
Recipient
no
Recipient Type
Libraries
Status
Completed
Start Date
June 2014
End Date
July 2014
Activity Type
Education/Outreach/Engagement
Counties Affected
St. Louis
St. Louis
Project Overview
The Minnesota History Center brings history alive with a variety of history players including author and artist, Wanda Gag. Learn about how she sold hand-drawn postcards and Valentine's Day cards at the local drugstore in order to buy shoes and school supplies for her six younger siblings and then as a struggling artist in New York City, spent her spare time telling children stories, including one about 'millions and billions and trillions of cats. Wanda Gag is one of Minnesota history's most interesting people who stepped forward in time to share her story. Some people led ordinary lives, others accomplished extraordinary things, but all faced the challenges of their times in history as best they could. See Wand Gag as she engages you with her memorable life stories and travels to New York City to pursue her art career and the publication of her first book, Millions of Cats.
Project Details
17 attended
Legal Citation / Subdivision
Laws of Minnesota for 2013 Chapter 137, Article 4, Section 2, Subdivision 4
2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$942
Other Funds Leveraged
$108
Direct expenses
$1,050
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

The intended outcome of the program is to stimulate patron imagination, creativity and interest in Minnesota history. It will educate kids about being brave, facing adversity, being a good friend and working together. It will also expose patrons to new art formats as well as create access to professional live art through history players reenacting people in Minnesota history. Live art is dynamic; patrons can experience and be inspired by the energy that comes from a live performance.

Measurable Outcome(s)

Surveys were distributed to participants at all programs. 100% agreed that this was an enjoyable experience and that they would attend a similar event. Participants liked how the program exposed children to the past and got them involved with the props as well as the joyful presentation of her life and her strength in pursuing her love of art. Participants learned that despite struggle and loss an individual can rise above their situation and even inspire others in their lifetime and beyond. To keep your dream alive, just keep going even when it is hard.

Source of Additional Funds

The Buhl and Eveleth public libraries provided space, staff, and additional promotion for the programs and 2 regional newspapers.

Project Manager
First Name
Jim
Last Name
Weikum
Organization Name
Arrowhead Library System
Street Address
5528 Emerald Avenue
City
Mt. Iron
State
MN
Zip Code
55768
Phone
218-741-3840 ext. 230
Email
jim@arrowhead.lib.mn.us
Administered By
Administered by
Location

1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville, MN 55113-4266

Phone
651-582-8200