Northern Lakes Arts Association

The mission of the Northern Lakes Arts Association is to support and develop the visual, performing, and literary arts to enrich the quality of life in Ely and the surrounding area.

Northern Lakes Arts Association is dedicated to fostering a thriving arts community in Ely, MN, by promoting and supporting local artists and arts experiences. We collaborate with other arts organizations to enhance the cultural landscape, encouraging connections between local and professional artists to nurture creativity. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that everyone, whether participant or observer, can grow through the arts. By uplifting the arts, we aim to make Ely a vibrant arts and cultural destination, enriching the community for residents and visitors alike.

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Northern Lakes Arts Association aims to enrich the Ely community by supporting and developing visual, performing, and literary arts. The association promotes arts participation, expands educational opportunities, and views the arts as an economic resource. It also values the area's ethnic traditions and collaborates with artists and arts enthusiasts. NLAA serves as a resource by fostering communication, aiding public art displays, assisting with funding, and providing educational opportunities for local artists.

Founded in 1986, Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) is a nonprofit arts organization based in Ely, MN, dedicated to enriching the cultural life of our community through diverse artistic experiences.

NLAA produces and presents a wide range of artistic programming, including theatrical productions, concerts, visual arts exhibitions, educational workshops, and community arts events. We are committed to fostering creativity, engaging audiences of all ages, and supporting local and regional artists.

As an integral part of the Ely arts scene, NLAA collaborates with artists, educators, and organizations to bring accessible, high-quality arts experiences to our rural community. Whether through our annual summer theater productions, artist residencies, or youth arts initiatives, we strive to inspire, educate, and connect people through the power of the arts.

Our team is passionate about arts advocacy, community engagement, and artistic excellence—and we welcome individuals who share our vision for a vibrant, creative Northern Minnesota.