By David Murchland - Marshfield Now!
The Chestnut Center for the Arts is welcoming warmer weather with a full lineup of community events, art exhibits, music performances, youth programs, and fundraising activities designed to bring residents together throughout the spring and summer months.
During a recent community update, organizers highlighted several upcoming attractions, beginning with a new gallery exhibit titled Be Mused, featuring artwork from sisters Diane Brown-Hahn of Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield artist Cheryl Fischl. The exhibit showcases eclectic mixed-media and gourd art inspired by the sisters’ creative relationship and will remain on display through June 25.
The center’s gift shop, recently relocated to a more accessible area near the front entrance, is also featuring seasonal handmade items created by local artists. Officials say the move improves wheelchair accessibility and creates a more welcoming experience for visitors.
One of the organization’s most visible projects continues to be its community mural initiative along Chestnut Avenue. On May 20, fifth-grade students from Our Lady of Peace School will work alongside resident mural artist Marty and learn about mural painting through educational activities and demonstrations inspired by local artist Gene Wesley, whose murals can be seen throughout Marshfield.
Music fans can also look forward to a May 29 performance by Bruce Music, a solo performer known for live looping and a blend of acoustic rock, funk, blues, jazz, and reggae influences. Organizers described the event as a “rock concert of love” and expect it to offer a unique one-man-band experience.
The center is additionally partnering with a regional pickleball tournament on June 5 and 6 as the event’s designated charity beneficiary. Fundraising raffles held during the tournament will support arts programming and community outreach efforts.
Family programming remains a major focus for the organization. The annual Daddy-Daughter Date Night is scheduled for June 13 and will welcome fathers, grandfathers, daughters, and siblings for an evening of activities and entertainment. Summer theater and art camps for school-age children, along with toddler music and art programs, are also planned for the coming months.
Another ambitious project gaining attention is “Cherish Our City,” a public art fundraiser featuring 28 vintage fiberglass chairs from the 1980s. Local artists will transform each chair into a unique art piece before the creations are displayed at businesses throughout Marshfield during July. Community members will then be able to purchase raffle tickets for individual chairs, with winners announced during the center’s Oktoberfest celebration on Sept. 12.
Beyond events and exhibitions, the Chestnut Center continues to serve as a community gathering place, offering rental space for workshops, meetings, birthday parties, and other activities. Officials noted that upgraded Wi-Fi and flexible room options are helping attract a wider range of local organizations and residents.