The Duluth Art Institute Searches for New Location

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Art Institute has been at the Depot for half a century. After years of stability, the DAI is poised for change in 2024.

The Duluth Art Institute, or DAI, considers itself to be the premier arts institution in the region, but after 50 years of being housed in The Depot, they will have to find a new home. The building is owned by St. Louis County, and the Institute was paying below market rent. Last year, the Commissioners unanimously voted to not renew their lease.

Board President Robin Washington says the original founders could never have imagined that they would be asked to leave.

” This was developed by the Junior League of Duluth for the purpose of being an art venue, and was handed to the County who didn’t pay anything for it. I totally respect the cost to maintain it. Nothing was ever said that they would determine the institutions who would be here.”

Washington says some cities even smaller than Duluth have a dedicated and supported space for the arts.

” How in the world did we not have that happen here? I have nothing but praise for the Grand Dames of Duluth, the Junior League and their sisters, who really kept this thing going. It started over 115 years ago. They made sure we had something for the Arts.”

The DAI also has a separate, Lincoln Park location that is not affected by the required gallery move. Classes and workshops there are thriving.

Executive Director Christina Woods knows that change is inevitable in any organization that is over a century old, and says the DAI is ready for what comes next. She said coping with the pandemic prepared them for when the Institute had to shift their entire way of operating to going on-line.

“That was a pretty significant change And because of our size and our skill set and our ability to really live our mission, we pivoted from having to close to becoming an on line organization in five days.”

She says they were able to shift quickly, with a clear vision of what they wanted to accomplish

“We approach the problems with great solutions for everybody’s benefit. Artists, patrons of the arts, learners of the arts. So with this challenge that we have in front of us, it’s the same formula. ”

Woods says The Art Institute is also unique in its commitment to be platform for supporting artists from underrepresented groups. She stressed they will continue to be an inclusive arts community.

“We are going to advocate to ensure that artists have a place to show an exhibition, to teach and to grow in their own professional development and to have a place to create. ”

And Board President Washington explained that inclusivity is also reflected in being a BIPOC led organization, which he says is a special asset. BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous, people of color.

” Sort of by accident, The Duluth Art Institute with myself and Christina Woods as Executive Director, with myself as President of the Board is really as far as we can tell, we are the only mainstream artwork or exhibitor museum that is BIPOC led with both it’s Board and Executive Director.”

Both Washington and Woods say the Art shown at the gallery has an important role.

“We are helping to bring an expansive framework to folks who live here and visit here. We are committed to uplift absent narratives historical and cultural.”

Washington says that art is integral to any community.

“Without art, why breathe? What is the point of life?”

Executive Director Christina Woods and Board President Robin Washington want the public to know that despite the challenges that 2024 will undoubtedly bring, their commitment to serving the public is unwavering.