Artist Charles Capsner captivated attendees with an overview of his fresco, which illustrates the origins of settlement in Little Falls. The fresco, titled “Beginnings,” features the Mississippi River, early settlers, Native American culture, and the region’s agricultural and engineering history. Capsner shared his creative process, emphasizing the traditional fresco technique that requires each section to be completed within a single day to maintain its integrity. He detailed the challenges and rewards of this ancient art form, noting its rarity in educational settings in Minnesota.

The educational implications of the fresco project were highlighted by an art educator, who explained the development of a comprehensive program to teach students about fresco techniques. This program included hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to work with plaster and learn the differences between fresco and traditional murals. Additionally, second graders composed songs inspired by the fresco’s themes, further integrating art into the curriculum and enhancing students’ appreciation for Morrison County’s history.

A fundraising initiative was announced, allowing community members to sponsor individual square feet of the fresco for $25. Sponsors’ names will be inscribed on a commemorative plaque, fostering a sense of community ownership and involvement. This campaign aims to fund the remaining sections of the fresco, with an emphasis on community support to secure larger corporate and foundation donations.

The fresco project is anticipated to last at least three years and includes the depiction of various artistic disciplines and local landscapes, with plans for interactive live broadcasts to engage audiences beyond the local community. Specific individuals, such as Nancy Sakala representing indigenous heritage, Dr. Carrie Jacobson for agriculture, and Kim West for education, are among those featured in the fresco.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of the fresco, emphasizing its role as an educational tool within the school setting. The project draws inspiration from historical uses of frescoes as visual aids in churches during the Renaissance, engaging children in learning about their backgrounds through art. The potential for the fresco to connect with a global audience was discussed, with interactive broadcasts and connections with schools across the country planned as the project progresses.

In an interesting segue, a demonstration on fly tying was presented, highlighting the local fishing culture. The presenter explained the intricacies of fly tying, engaging with students and discussing the rewarding experience of catching fish with self-tied flies. This activity was linked to the artistic process of creating the fresco.

The principal of Lindberg Elementary expressed appreciation for the fresco project, noting its impact on students and staff. The fresco serves as a unifying piece for the community, fostering conversation and involvement among various stakeholders. The principal emphasized the importance of schools as community hubs, echoing the sentiment that the fresco is a tribute to the community.