ANTIGO, WI — Antigo Visual Arts celebrated the remarkable artistic journey of longtime member Joanne March with the opening reception for her special solo exhibition on Thursday, August 6, at the AVA Art Gallery on the second floor of the Langlade County Historical Museum.
The evening was filled with family, friends, fellow artists and visitors who came together to celebrate Joanne and her many years as a valued member of the Antigo arts community. More than 70 guests signed in at the door, making it a record turnout for an AVA Gallery exhibition.
Joanne, 93, has been an active and cherished part of Antigo Visual Arts for decades. Her artistic journey has included painting, basket weaving and, more recently, vibrant acrylic works. Her art reflects her curiosity, creativity, resilience and joy—qualities that have endeared her to fellow artists and the community.
Wayne Gagnon offered a special tribute to Joanne during the reception. Gagnon previously interviewed Joanne for her AVA Artist of the Month feature in the Antigo Times and shared remarks honoring her artistic journey and contributions to the local arts community.
Former Antigo Visual Arts president Jim Martinsen, who was president when Joanne joined AVA, also reflected on her journey and the impact she has had on the organization. In a Facebook post, Martinsen wrote that he was sorry he could not be there to enjoy the entries in Joanne’s last AVA show. He recalled how skeptical Joanne had been of her talent when she first joined AVA, adding, “I wasn’t. So, I win. No, wait a second, You win. No, we both win. AVA wins.” He went on to say that AVA has been fortunate to have the opportunity to display and enjoy Joanne’s work, concluding, “You truly are a wonderful artist and lady.”
The evening also included recognition of the artwork in the exhibit. “The Night Visitor” was selected as Best in Show, and Marie Benes won the beautiful bouquet door prize.
Adding to the festive welcome was a large easel sign created by Kim Schoenrock and displayed outdoors at the Langlade County Historical Museum, greeting visitors as they arrived for the reception.
Antigo Visual Arts would like to extend a special thank you to Vicki Eldridge, AVA Gallery Director, for her work in helping bring the exhibition and reception together, as well as to Kim Schoenrock for creating the beautiful welcome sign. AVA also extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed food and refreshments, helped prepare and host the reception, and assisted in making the evening such a success. Most of all, AVA is grateful to Joanne’s family and friends who came to celebrate with her and helped make the evening such a meaningful and memorable occasion.
Joanne and her family have been deeply loved by the Antigo community, and the remarkable attendance at the opening reception reflected the many friendships and connections she has made throughout the years. The turnout was a meaningful testament to the lasting impression Joanne has made on the people around her and within the Antigo arts community.
As the exhibition continues, Joanne is moving to Colorado to be near her immediate family. To celebrate her and give the community an opportunity to say goodbye, Antigo Visual Arts will host a final reception and farewell on Thursday, August 27, from 5–7 PM at the AVA Art Gallery. Joanne’s family will be in attendance for the gathering.
The public is warmly invited to join AVA for an evening of friendship, memories and appreciation as the community celebrates Joanne and wishes her well on this next chapter.
The Joanne March exhibition continues through Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the AVA Art Gallery, located on the second floor of the Langlade County Historical Museum, 404 Superior Street, Antigo.
