Join us for two talks this episode! In the first half hour with Lydia Y Nichols Independent artist, writer from New Orleans LA.
And in the second half hour, listen in to hear about Nance Klehm of Social Ecologies, Chicago IL!
**These conversations were recorded and gathered September 11th - 13th, 2026.
The MdW Itasca Gathering was designed around the open studio and open space concepts, providing space for artists to connect, share, and create in a non-structured environment. It was hosted in collaboration with Manoomin Arts Initiative, MdW Coalition, The School for Rural Culture and Creativity, Racing Magpie, and the Region 2 Arts Council.
This gathering built on the relationships and ideas shared at the 2024 Kansas City Summit, helping to set the stage for the upcoming MdW Summit in Detroit, scheduled for June 22–27, 2026. In a complicated time, the gathering sought to create space for community-building, collaboration, reflection, rejuvenation, and connection to nature.
