With over 350 members, the Minnesota Watercolor Society (MNWS) is one of the largest associations of watercolor artists in the Midwest. Since its inception in 1983, MNWS membership has mushroomed with artists looking for educational information, support and encouragement. Monthly meetings, a newsletter, workshops, demonstrations, “paintouts” and exhibits provide a wealth of opportunities for artists to learn and grow. MNWS also maintains an excellent library of videotapes and books for member use. Any artist, from beginner to advanced, is welcome to join the supportive environment of MNWS.
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 together watercolor artists to share ideas, exhibit artwork, sponsor demonstrations and learn as much as possible 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 102. Over the next fifteen years membership in TCWS grew steadily, as did the mission of the organization, to support and ever-widening community of artists. In 1998, the Twin Cities Watercolor Society became the Minnesota Watercolor Society.