Antigo, WI (July 21, 2025) – The Antigo Visual Arts (AVA) community came together on Saturday, July 19, to celebrate local creativity and talent at the opening reception of its newest exhibit, Summer Wonders. Held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Langlade County Historical Museum in Antigo, Wisconsin, the event drew a lively crowd of artists, art lovers, and community members.
The reception featured hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and a special guest appearance by Cheryl Erwin Eldridge, author of The Heart of the Home, who mingled with attendees and signed copies of her book.
Gallery Director Vicki Eldridge led the evening’s program, sharing stories, selling artwork, and announcing the juried awards. “I love having first-time artists join us and display in our show,” Eldridge said. “Such vibrant colors and designs—perfect for the show’s title of Summer Wonders.”
Although exhibit judge Andi Gretzinger was unable to attend in person, her award selections were announced as follows:
Exhibit Awards:
1st Place: Bloom After Dark – Beatie Gmeiner
2nd Place: A Familiar Feeling – Brett Powell
3rd Place: Casssssanova – Vicki Eldridge
Honorable Mention: Concentricity – Hans Schmitt
Honorable Mention: Soaring – Camille Converse Smith
Honorable Mention: Driving in the Northwoods – Nancy Leader
Artist’s Choice: Day is Done – Joanne March
Viewer’s Choice: The Last Supper – Anthony Felix
In addition to the art, the reception spotlighted a community-driven fundraising project in memory of Joe Hermolin. A table was set up for AVA’s ongoing effort to support the creation of a memorial bench designed by metal pour artist Teresa Lind. Lind will lead aluminum pour events in Antigo on August 9 and August 23, offering community members a unique opportunity to take part in the process.
In preparation for the pour events, AVA is selling scratch blocks for $25 each. These blocks can be purchased in advance, giving individuals time to carve or “scratch” their own custom design into the block before the molten aluminum—heated to 1250°F—is poured in. The result is a one-of-a-kind aluminum artwork that can be taken home and displayed in a garden or personal space.
Scratch blocks are available for sale through AVA. To learn more or to purchase a block, email gallery@antigovisualarts.org. All proceeds go toward the creation of Joe Hermolin’s memorial bench.
The event was also attended by Brenna Osborne of Be U Beautiful by Bren Photography, who generously volunteered her time and talent to capture the evening through her lens. AVA extends a sincere thank you to Brenna for photographing the event and contributing to its lasting memories.
“As a creative behind the lens, it’s a GIFT to witness the emotion, detail, and beauty within each artist’s piece—and to capture that magic in a way others might not stop to see,” Osborne said. “In a small town, it is easy to overlook the incredible talent in our own backyard. This gallery is a reminder that creativity lives HERE—and it deserves to be seen, felt, and celebrated. The hard work poured into our art community is coming to life. Don’t blink and miss the next opportunity to see what is next. Congratulations to the many artists who’ve submitted their passions and proudly displayed for our community.”
“This reception was more than an art show—it was a true celebration of creativity and connection,” said Eldridge.
The Summer Wonders exhibit is currently on view at the AVA Art Gallery, located inside the Langlade County Historical Museum. Visitors are encouraged to stop in and experience the wide variety of work on display.
For more information about AVA exhibits, memberships, or upcoming events, please visit antigovisualarts.org.