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Where Community and Creativity Meet

Every year when Art and Soul of the Magic Valley concludes and the artwork goes away from venues across Twin Falls, Melissa Crane hears the same feedback from community members: they miss it. As the Executive Director of the Magic Valley Arts Council, hearing this simple expression of longing confirms something profound about the region.

"That tells me they love the art," Melissa says. "And I think what makes us so special is that our community really values art."

In a world increasingly dominated by screens, the Magic Valley Arts Council serves as both a catalyst for art and a gathering place where people put down their phones and connect through creative expression. With a lean team of just three employees, the organization punches well above its weight, contributing over $870,000 annually to the region's economy while fostering relationships that extend far beyond the canvas.

Art Through the Seasons

Throughout the year, the Arts Council orchestrates a calendar of events that brings the community together across generations and skill levels. Art and Soul of the Magic Valley stands as the crown jewel. Venues throughout Twin Falls are transformed into galleries. Community members sponsor artists. Crowds gather to experience and vote on pieces of art that range from traditional to contemporary. Per Melissa, the event is the largest “public voting, cash-awarding art contest west of the Mississippi.”

When warmer weather arrives, Kids Art in the Park invites young artists outdoors, while the Missoula Children's Theater gives kids a complete theatrical experience. The Thousand Springs Festival of the Arts celebrates the region's natural beauty, drawing visitors and locals alike to experience creativity against the backdrop of Idaho's stunning landscape.

These notable seasonal events are just one facet of the Arts Council's work. The organization operates a year-round gallery where artists showcase their work and community members can experience art in person. Classes held at the gallery support three-year-olds taking their first brush strokes to seasoned artists honing advanced techniques and everyone in between.

Building Community One Class at a Time

The Idaho Watercolor Society meets monthly at the Arts Council in a free class that has evolved into a true community. "They work on not just watercolors, but all kinds of arts," Melissa explains. "This class that gathers once a month, they have become a community in themselves. They check on each other when someone isn't there. They care. They call, they show up, offer each other rides."

In an era of increasing social isolation, these connections provide something essential. "The arts help us connect with our emotions, express our emotions, feel joy,” Melissa notes. “They also connect us socially when we gather to participate or witness something together."

During her time with the Council, Melissa has witnessed a significant evolution in the local art scene. "I've seen an incredible change, mostly in the way art is showing up in businesses and just unexpected ways—more public art, but really the love and appreciation of art by people having it showcased in their business," she observes.

A Vital Partnership

First Fed has been instrumental in the Arts Council's growth, providing support that extends far beyond financial sponsorship. "First Federal has blessed us in so many ways, from serving on our board to being sponsors of our events," Melissa says. "When we need volunteers, they have people who help us. We're just so grateful for all their support."

This partnership embodies First Federal's commitment to enriching the communities it serves, recognizing that a vibrant arts scene enhances quality of life for everyone.

An Invitation to Connect

Organizations and groups contact the Arts Council monthly about bringing programming to their communities. The opportunities for expansion are vast, but the mission remains focused: reaching deeper into the Magic Valley, offering more programs, supporting more people, and bringing more joy.

Whether you're a seasoned artist, curious beginner, or simply someone seeking connection, the Magic Valley Arts Council offers a place where creativity and community converge—proof that in Southern Idaho, the arts aren't just alive; they're thriving.

"If you are interested in the arts or wanting to join a community, please come visit," recommends Melissa. "There are so many opportunities for you to help us make a difference."

Visit MagicValleyArtsCouncil.org to learn about upcoming classes, events, and volunteer opportunities.