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History

In July 1982, during a social gathering of watercolor painters held in an artist’s home, an organization for local watercolor artists was born. All agreed there was a need to bring watercolor artists together to share ideas, exhibit artwork, sponsor demonstrations and learn about the medium.

Two energetic women, Jeanette Stordahl and Jeanne Emrich founded the Twin Cities Watercolor Society with 47 excited members attending the very first meeting in January of 1983. By September of that year, the group numbered over 100. Over the next fifteen years, membership in TCWS grew steadily, as did the mission of the organization, to support an ever-widening community of artists. In 1998, the Twin Cities Watercolor Society became the Minnesota Watercolor Society.

Today, the Minnesota Watercolor Society is one of the largest associations of watercolor artists in the Midwest. Members enjoy monthly meetings and artist demos, discounted rates for workshops, access to spring and fall exhibitions, an online directory for networking with artists, newsletters and more.

Any artist, from beginner to advanced, is welcome to join the supportive environment of MNWS. We hope to see you soon!

Membership