Our Committees and Programs
The Thief River Falls Zehlians’ commitment to our community is reflected in the diverse programs and activities led by our members. From supporting and promoting local artists, to inspiring a love of the arts among elementary students, to beautifying our streets with flowers, Zehlians play an active role in making Thief River Falls a vibrant and welcoming place to live.
Through our committees and programs, Zehlians bring people together, nurture creativity, enhance our community, and help make many of the experiences that residents enjoy possible.
Art & Wine Walk
Each year, the Zehlians’ Art & Wine Walk draws hundreds of community members to businesses throughout Thief River Falls. The event showcases the talents of local artists while encouraging residents to explore, shop, and support local businesses. With a fun and casual atmosphere, the evening brings the community together to celebrate the arts and concludes with prizes and contest winners.
Art Adventures and Artist-in-Residence Programs
The Art Adventures and Artist-in-Residence programs embody the Zehlians’ commitment to inspiring creativity and fostering an appreciation for the arts among local students. In partnership with Challenger Elementary School, Zehlians members lead Art Adventures throughout the school year, introducing students to influential artists and helping them develop a deeper understanding of their work and impact.
Through the Artist-in-Residence program, the Zehlians partner with the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council to bring local artists into the classroom for hands-on experiences with a variety of artistic mediums. These programs give students the opportunity to explore their own creativity while learning directly from artists and gaining a greater appreciation for the arts.
Hanging Flower Baskets
Audrey Hepburn once said, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” The Zehlians’ commitment to beautifying Thief River Falls with hanging flower baskets is a reflection of that sentiment and our belief in the importance of creating a welcoming, vibrant community.
This program is truly a community effort. Local Boy Scouts and community volunteers generously give their time to regularly water and care for the flowers throughout the season. The baskets are also made possible through generous donations from local individuals and businesses, whose support helps bring color and beauty to our streets each year.
Downtown Art Committee
In 2021, three women met for lunch and left the table with a shared vision: to pursue a grant for a downtown mural featuring a local artist. That simple idea sparked an ongoing effort to bring more art, color, and creativity to Thief River Falls.
Since then, additional murals have been added throughout the community, helping revitalize and beautify the downtown area while showcasing the talents of local artists. The Downtown Art Committee continues this work by connecting local artists and businesses through grant opportunities from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, creating new opportunities for art to become an integral part of our community.
