The Central Lakes College Performing Arts Center (CLCPAC) will host a special exhibit of community and student artwork from April 20 through May 22. Artists from the Central Lakes region of Minnesota are invited to take part. Creators are encouraged to submit 2D or 3D pieces inspired by themes within The Grapes of Wrath, with a submission deadline of April 13. This exhibit offers a chance to reflect on the novel’s themes - immigration, perserverance, climate chanage, finding home, and more - through visual expression and to showcase your work alongside emerging student artists.

The exhibition will be on display in The Chalberg Theater lobby.

This exhibition is in conjunction with CLCPAC's community production of The Grapes of Wrath. Adapted from John Steinbeck’s classic American novel, The Grapes of Wrath tells the story of the Joad family, displaced by environmental hardship and economic change and forced to migrate from Oklahoma to California in search of work, dignity, and opportunity. While set during the Great Depression, the story continues to resonate today through its exploration of rural life, our connection to the land, and the strength of families and communities facing uncertainty.

CLCPAC will also work with the Brainerd Public Library to host a community book club focused on the novel, while related student learning at CLC occurs in several different subject areas.

Together, the production, classroom work, visual art exhibition, and book discussions will create a community-wide exploration of one of America’s most enduring stories—one that reflects shared rural experience, hard work, and the values that sustain communities through change.