News

Sidewalk chalk artist coming to Sugar Beet Days!

Allison Olstad posing with one of her chalk drawings
Allison Olstad, the “Chalk Gnome,” with one of her creations

The Renville Museum is excited to host sidewalk chalk artist Allison Olstad of Jordan, MN for a special event as part of Sugar Beet Days. On Friday June 10 starting at 11:00 a.m. the public is invited and encouraged to watch her transform the Bryant Avenue sidewalk near the museum into a fanciful work of art. 

Allison is a sophomore at Jordan High School, and has been chalking for just over five years. She discovered the medium at chalk camp in the summer of 2017, and under the guidance of award-winning muralist Shawn McCann, developed her skills through community festivals and workshops.  She has rightfully earned her whimsical Facebook moniker of Chalk Gnome.

Allison loves the excitement of watching a piece come together and learning something new while spending time with her “chalk family.” She enjoys sharing chalk art with kids at camps and community events like Sugar Beet Days.

When Allison isn’t chalking she can be found at the lake, playing sports, being with family and friends, and listening to or making music.

The Renville Museum is delighted to provide an opportunity for the community to enjoy her skills and talents, and grateful to the Renville Lions Club for sponsoring Allison’s involvement in Sugar Beet Days.

(In the event of rain this event will be rescheduled at a later date. Check the Renville Museum Facebook page for updates)

News

Sugar Beet Days 2021

Sugar Beet Days was a huge success! The Museum had well over 100 visitors between Saturday and Sunday. It was a joy to share our new and updated displays with the local community as well as out-of-town guests. We want to thank everyone who came by and helped fill our guest book and our donation jar, as well as the young artists who helped beautify our sidewalk!

One of the biggest draws to the Museum was a 1931 Model A on our front lawn. The car was loaned to us by Jon Weidemann, and though it missed the Renville parade due to 90-year-old car issues, it will be part of several area parades throughout the summer. Thank you again, Jon!

We sold out of small and medium retro t-shirts in a hurry, and we’ll continue to sell sizes L – XXL throughout the summer.

We were able to sign up a few new members during Sugar Beet Days! If you are interested in becoming a member and helping to ensure the future of the Renville Museum, please fill out and return this membership form.

If you missed us during the celebration, stop by any Saturday from 1-4 p.m., or contact us to set up an appointment at a different time.