Arts Commission Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 24, 2026

City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission Forms New Filmmaking & Support of North Idaho Film Festival Subcommittee to Advance Creative Economy and Film & Television

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho --- The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission has established a new Filmmaking & Support of North Idaho Film Festival Subcommittee to strengthen support for filmmaking and film-related industries in North Idaho and to advance discussion around a proposed Idaho Film & Television Incentive.

The subcommittee will operate under the Arts Commission’s mission to support arts, culture, and creative industries that enrich the community and contribute to economic vitality. Film and media arts are increasingly recognized as powerful tools for storytelling, workforce development, tourism, and regional investment.

“Film is both an art form and an economic driver,” said Amy Evans, Councilwoman for the City of Coeur d’Alene. “By creating this subcommittee within the Arts Commission, we are recognizing the importance of film to our cultural landscape while ensuring North Idaho is included in statewide conversations about film policy and incentives.”

Purpose and Scope

The Filmmaking & Support of North Idaho Film Festival Subcommittee will:

•            Support local and regional filmmakers and media artists

•            Encourage workforce development and educational pathways in film and media

•            Promote North Idaho as a film-friendly region

•            Collaborate with regional, state, and nonprofit partners

•            Provide Arts Commission input on the proposed Idaho Film & Television Incentive, with an emphasis on regional equity, responsible growth, and community benefit 

Promotion of the North Idaho Film Festival (NoID Film Festival)

The subcommittee is also dedicated to actively promoting the North Idaho Film Festival (NoID Film Festival) as a premier platform for showcasing regional filmmaking talent, fostering community engagement, and elevating North Idaho’s profile in the film industry. The next edition of the festival is scheduled for September 24 – September 26, 2026, at Regal Riverstone Cinemas.

Proposed Film & Television Tax Incentive

A key focus of the subcommittee will be to support and inform discussions around a proposed Idaho Film & Television program. This initiative is intended to make Idaho more competitive in attracting film and television productions while encouraging local hiring, regional spending, and long-term industry sustainability. The subcommittee will serve in an advisory capacity by gathering feedback, sharing best practices, and elevating North Idaho’s perspective.

Next Steps

The subcommittee plans to engage stakeholders, host listening sessions, and explore pilot opportunities that highlight North Idaho’s creative talent and production capacity. It is also dedicated to help nurture North Idaho’s film festivals and film-related events. Additional information regarding meetings and initiatives will be announced through the City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission.

The North Idaho Film Festival (NoID Film Festival) is a grassroots nonprofit event celebrating independent cinema, local talent, and storytelling.  It takes place on September 24-26, 2026, in Coeur d'Alene featuring three days of film screenings, filmmaker Q & As, industry workshops, and networking events.  This vibrant celebration of film and culture will not cost the city money.  Instead, it will draw visitors, showcase the arts, support local businesses, and generate additional revenue that benefits the entire community.

For more information, please contact: City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission Filmmaking & Support of North Idaho Film Festival Subcommittee Chair Charlotte Doutriaux, [email protected].

For Immediate Release: June 3, 2026

Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission Announces Art Spotlight CDA: Visual Arts Grant Program

The Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is pleased to announce the launch of Arts Spotlight: Visual Arts, a new community arts grant program designed to support visual arts projects, arts education, and creative engagement throughout Coeur d’Alene.

The program will provide funding opportunities for artists, nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups that present accessible visual arts programming benefiting the community.  Eligible projects may include exhibitions, educational programs, public art initiatives, youth arts opportunities, workshops, and collaborative community arts projects.

The Art Spotlight CDA: Visual Arts program is modeled after the successful Art Spotlight CDA: Performing Arts program and is intended to strengthen Coeur d’Alene’s creative community while promoting cultural tourism, economic vitality, and quality of life.

The 2026-2027 program cycle will provide a total of $15,000 in grant funding through awards of $5,000 or $7,500, with possible second-year support for selected projects.  Applications will be reviewed through a competitive evaluation process using criteria that emphasize artistic quality, community engagement, project feasibility, and public impact.

“The Art Commission is excited to expand opportunities for visual arts programming in our community,” said Mary Lee Ryba, Commissioner Chair.  “This program creates a transparent and competitive process that supports meaningful arts experiences for our residents.”

The program also prioritizes opportunities for K-12 students through arts education, enrichment programs, exhibitions, and creative projects that engage young people in the arts.

The application deadline is July 10, 2026, and applications may be found on the Commission’s website at Art Spotlight CDA: Visual Arts. 

For additional information, contact:
Melissa Brandt, Administrative Assistant/ Staff Support to the Arts Commission
Phone: (208) 769-2252
Email:  [email protected]

For Immediate Release: May 29, 2026

Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission Accepting Nominations for the 30th Annual CDA Arts Awards

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is now accepting nominations for the 30th Annual Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made significant contributions to the arts and cultural life of the community.

The annual awards celebrate excellence, leadership, creativity, advocacy, and philanthropy in the visual, performing, literary, and cultural arts throughout the Coeur d’Alene area.

Community members are encouraged to nominate artists, educators, volunteers, patrons, organizations, or businesses whose work has enriched the arts in Coeur d’Alene.

Nominations must be received by August 28, 2026.

Award recipients will be recognized at the 30^th Annual Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards celebration in October.

Download a nomination form at City of Coeur d'Alene - Coeur d'Alene Arts Awards or contact us at (208) 769-2300 to request a form.  You may also pick up a nomination form at Coeur d’Alene City Hall, located at 710 E Mullan Ave, Coeur d’Alene, 83814.

The Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission serves to support, promote, and advocate for the arts as an essential part of community life.

For Immediate Release: October 8, 2025

City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission Announces Inaugural Art Spotlight CDA Recipients

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is pleased to announce the first recipients of its new Art Spotlight CDA program grants, created to support the performing arts in our community.

Art Spotlight CDA invited local performing arts organizations to apply for funding to support theatre, dance, music, and opera productions, as well as related programming. The inaugural grant cycle will run from November 2025 through October 2026, with an option for a second year of support through October 2027.

The program provides a total of $15,000 in funding, with selected organizations receiving $5,000 or $7,500 in the first year. A second-year grant may be awarded for the same project, subject to the approval of the Selection Committee, Arts Commission, and City Council.

Recipients of the inaugural Art Spotlight CDA program were announced at the October 7, 2025, City Council meeting:

• Lake City Playhouse plans to launch an Education Program with two core components: a middle school afterschool program, and a teen board that develops leadership skills, as well as the creation of a student-led production where storytelling and imagination take center stage.
• The Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene will establish a Youth Music Scholarship Fund to assist low-income families, ensuring equitable access to high-quality music education for all students.
• CDA Summer Theatre will enhance its Musical Theatre Training Institute through a partnership with the Boys & Girls Club, offering youth programming, seasonal camps, and pop-up workshops. The grant will also allow them to purchase portable equipment such as a digital piano, sound system, and stage lighting.

Each organization will receive $5,000 to support their upcoming initiatives.

“As an Arts Commissioner, I’m thrilled to see the very first Art Spotlight CDA grants going to such inspiring projects,” said Mary Lee Ryba, Coeur d’Alene Arts Commissioner. “Each of these initiatives expands opportunities for youth---whether it’s learning theatre skills, accessing music education, or experiencing hands-on training in musical theatre.  These investments will not only enrich young lives but also strengthen the cultural fabric of our entire community.”

Through the Art Spotlight CDA program, the City of Coeur d’Alene reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the performing arts and fostering vibrant cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.

For Immediate Release: September 25, 2025

Celebrate the Arts Within You!

Coeur d’Alene Joins Nationwide Arts & Humanities Month, October 1-31, 2025

This October, the City of Coeur d’Alene invites the community to “Celebrate the Arts Within You” during the National Arts & Humanities Month, a month-long series of events, exhibits, and performances honoring the creative spirit that enriches our region.  From October 1-31, residents and visitors are invited to enjoy opportunities to explore the visual arts, music, theatre, literature, and cultural heritage that make Coeur d’Alene thrive.

The celebration kicks off on October 1 with a launch event featuring local artist Dale Young, performing an improvisation on the Native American flute, and Jennifer Passaro, Coeur d’Alene’s Poet Laureate, presenting an original poem. Together, they offer a powerful opening that reflects the heart of our community’s creativity.

Highlights of the month-long celebration include:

• 29^th Annual Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards – October 22 at the Hagadone Event Center, honoring outstanding achievement and leadership in the arts.
• Visual & Performing Arts Showcases – Featuring the talent of local artists, musicians, writers, and performers.
• Community Workshops & Presentations – Encouraging participation, creativity, and cultural dialog.

“Art and humanities are at the heart of what makes Coeur d’Alene such a special place as well as drivers of economic vitality, education, and community well-being.” said Mary Lee Ryba, Chair of the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission. “We are proud to celebrate the artists, educators, and organizations who enrich the quality of life in Coeur d’Alene,” she added.

National Arts & Humanities Month, established by Americans for the Arts, is the nation’s largest annual celebration of arts and culture.  

For more information and a complete schedule of events, please visit https://www.artsandculturecda.org/october-arts-calendar or by scanning the QR code below.

For Immediate Release: September 15, 2025

29th Annual Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is pleased to announce the following recipients of the 29th Annual Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards, honoring excellence in the arts:  

The Sandi Bloem Arts Legacy Award - Sandi Bloem

The Excellence in the Arts Award - Jenny Shotwell

The Support of the Arts Award - Dan and Kathryn Pinkerton

The Emerging Arts Award - Shakespeare CDA

The Arts in Education Award - Cynthia Chapman

The Student Excellence in the Arts Award - Jerren Bailey

The Arts Commission is delighted to invite you to join us for the 2025 CDA Arts Awards --- a night of celebration, inspiration, and artistic excellence.

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Time: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Venue: Hagadone Events Center, 984 S. Floating Green Drive, Coeur d’Alene, ID

Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate the arts, honor extraordinary talent, and enjoy an unforgettable evening.  Emceed by Arts Commissioner Lindsey Sichelstiel, the program will feature some of the Inland Northwest's finest performers, including Jenny Shotwell, Dan Pinkerton, Shakespeare CDA, CDA Summer Theatre, Aspire Theatre, and Lake City Playhouse.  Coeur d'Alene Poet Laureate Jennifer Passaro will share an original poem created for this occasion, and the 2025 Art Spotlight CDA awardees will be revealed.  Pianist Matthew Goodrich will provide music during the social hour and throughout the evening, setting the tone for a night to remember.

The Coeur d'Alene Arts Awards, presented by the Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission and the City of Coeur d'Alene, honor and encourage excellence in the arts while fostering greater awareness and appreciation throughout our community.   Seating is limited, so we encourage you to RSVP today.  Thank you for your continued support of the arts in Coeur d'Alene. We look forward to celebrating this exceptional evening with you.

Please RSVP to Arts Commission Chair Mary Lee Ryba at [email protected] by October 15, 2025.

For more information contact Jo Anne Mateski, Arts Commission staff support, at [email protected] or (208) 666-5754.

For Immediate Release: June 20, 2025

CdA ArtCurrents 2025 Submission Deadline is June 30

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission reminds artists that the deadline for submission of applications to participate in its “ArtCurrents” program is on Monday, June 30, 2025.

Artists submit applications for placement of their sculptures around downtown Coeur d’Alene and Riverstone for a period of one (1) year, with an option to renew for a second year.  The displayed works should be created and displayed with the intention of selling within the year, with the City of Coeur d’Alene receiving a 25% commission from the sale. The Arts Commission has set a minimum cost for the piece at $7,000 with a maximum cost of $30,000 to make the art accessible to a variety of buyers.

The selected artists or artist’s teams will be paid a stipend of $1,000.00 for the first year.  A second stipend of $1,000.00 may be paid to the artists at the start of the second year should the Arts Commission choose to retain the piece.  ArtCurrents pieces are displayed along Sherman Avenue, Lakeside Avenue, City Park, and the Riverstone area.

Public art is a distinguishing part of our public history and our culture. It creates and enhances neighborhood and community identity. It adds to the visual landscape and character of the city.  It turns ordinary spaces into community landmarks, promotes diverse dialogue and, most importantly, is accessible to everyone. ArtCurrents is looking for creative artists who capture the spirit and atmosphere of the environment in which we live. We are interested in seeing high quality, thoughtful art pieces with an emphasis on excellent craftsmanship. Pieces are encouraged which center on themes or interpretations of the Northwest in any form and are family-oriented. These artworks may be in any medium that will withstand the elements year-round and can be abstract or realistic. ArtCurrents provides high visibility outdoor gallery space for each piece chosen throughout high traffic streets, parks, and public spaces in town. These pieces enrich the beauty of our city landscape while providing exposure to the artist with the intent of selling the piece.  

Applications must be received through the CaFÉ website (www.callforentry.org) no later than 5:00 p.m. PST on June 30, 2025.  The call is entitled: “Coeur d’Alene ArtCurrents 2025”.

Installation of the artwork will begin in October.

For more information about the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission, visit our website at www.cdaid.org/arts.

For Immediate Release: June 5, 2025

CdA Arts Commission seeks performing arts organizations for “Art Spotlight CDA” Grants

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is seeking performing arts organizations to participate in its “Art Spotlight CDA” grant program.

The Art Spotlight CDA program is intended to support performing arts organizations to sustain and broaden their programs for the enrichment of the community and support of programming that draws audiences both locally and nationwide. Throughout the year, Coeur d’Alene attracts thousands of visitors; a rich offering of performing arts increases what the City has to offer.

Performing arts companies submit applications for grant funds that will contribute to the creation of theatre, dance, music, opera productions, and similar performing arts programming. Applications must include a letter that describes in detail the project, program, or production to be funded, and how it will enhance the community.  The letter should include how the funding will be utilized and how the Arts Commission and City will be recognized as sponsors.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Applicants must be based in Kootenai County, Idaho
• Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
• Applicants must be in good standing with the City and the community
• Applicant companies must have completed at least five (5) years of performing arts programming prior to the application deadline date
• Applicants may submit one (1) application per grant cycle year
• Applicants must be an organization that regularly schedules and engages performing artists to perform before general audiences in the community and manages the related performance logistics as an ongoing and significant component of their organization’s activity

From the submissions, a committee will select the projects, programs, and/or productions to receive the funding.  The first-year period will run from November 1, 2025, through October 31, 2026, with a second-year option running from November 1, 2026, through October 31, 2027.

Art Spotlight CDA will offer grants totaling $15,000. The selected companies or organizations will be funded in the amount of $5,000 or $7,500 for the first year (three (3) companies at $5,000 each or two (2) companies at $7,500 each) at the discretion of the Selection Committee, Arts Commission, and City Council. The selected company or organization may apply for a grant in the second year for the same project, program, or production, or one that contains the same criteria as the work funded in the first year.

Applications must be received by email to Jo Anne Mateski, City Staff Support to the Arts Commission, [email protected], no later than 5:00 p.m. PST on Friday, August 15, 2025, with the subject line: “Art Spotlight CDA 2025 Application Submission”. Recipients of the funding will be announced in October. 

For Immediate Release: April 22, 2025

City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission

A Fiery Debut: “Sid” the Green Energy Dragon Arrives

Coeur d'Alene, ID – Join us for the dedication of "Sid" the Green Energy Dragon this Thursday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m. at the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility (AWTF), located along the Centennial Trail at 1080 Hubbard Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814. Parking is available in any of North Idaho College's (NIC) campus parking lots.

Councilmember Amy Evans will emcee the event, with Mayor Woody McEvers sharing remarks about the sculpture's namesake, Haldo Sidney "Sid" Frederickson IV, whose award-winning career at the AWTF was marked by a passion for innovation and sustainability in wastewater treatment.

Artist Melissa Cole will reveal how "Sid" was designed to be both eye-catching and educational, including fun facts about biogas. City of Coeur d'Alene Poet Laureate Jennifer Passaro will also present an original poem written especially for the occasion.

Come celebrate this colorful new addition to our community and learn more about how we turn waste into energy. 

For Immediate Release: April 15, 2025

CdA Arts Commission seeks Artists for “ArtCurrents”

 The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is seeking artists to participate in its “ArtCurrents” program.   Artists submit applications for placement of their sculptures around downtown Coeur d’Alene and Riverstone for a period of one (1) year, with an option to renew for a second year.  The displayed works should be created and displayed with the intention of selling within the year, with the City of Coeur d’Alene receiving a 25% commission from the sale. The Arts Commission has set a minimum cost for the piece at $7,000 with a maximum cost of $30,000 to make the art accessible to a variety of buyers.

The selected artists or artist’s teams will be paid a stipend of $1,000.00 for the first year.  A second stipend of $1,000.00 may be paid to the artists at the start of the second year should the Arts Commission choose to retain the piece.  ArtCurrents pieces are displayed along Sherman Avenue, Lakeside Avenue, City Park, and the Riverstone area.

Public art is a distinguishing part of our public history and our culture. It creates and enhances neighborhood and community identity. It adds to the visual landscape and character of the city.  It turns ordinary spaces into community landmarks, promotes diverse dialogue and, most importantly, is accessible to everyone. ArtCurrents is looking for creative artists who capture the spirit and atmosphere of the environment in which we live. We are interested in seeing high quality, thoughtful art pieces with an emphasis on excellent craftsmanship. Pieces are encouraged which center on themes or interpretations of the Northwest in any form and are family-oriented. These artworks may be in any medium that will withstand the elements year-round and can be abstract or realistic. ArtCurrents provides high visibility outdoor gallery space for each piece chosen throughout high traffic streets, parks, and public spaces in town. These pieces enrich the beauty of our city landscape while providing exposure to the artist with the intent of selling the piece. 

Applications must be received through the CaFÉ website (www.callforentry.org) no later than 5:00 p.m. PST on June 30, 2025.  The call is entitled: “Coeur d’Alene Art Currents 2025”.

Installation of the artwork will begin in October.

For more information about the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission, visit our website at www.cdaid.org/arts. 

For Immediate Release: April 2, 2025

CITY OF COEUR D’ALENE ARTS COMMISSION

UNVEILS “SID” THE GREEN ENERGY DRAGON

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is proud to announce the installation of its newest public artwork, “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon, created by Spokane artist Melissa Cole.  This vibrant sculpture is nestled along the Centennial Trail and Spokane River at the Coeur d’Alene Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility (AWTF).

As a publicly owned facility, the AWTF operates under some of the most stringent effluent discharge regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  Using advanced tertiary treatment technologies, the facility processes nearly four million gallons of wastewater daily before safely discharging to the Spokane River.

In an effort to engage and educate the public, the City’s Wastewater Department and the Arts Commission sought a creative and interactive way to raise awareness about the wastewater treatment process---specifically, the role of biogas.  A byproduct of our wastewater treatment, biogas is used as a heat source, with any excess safely burned off. “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon visually represents this process, incorporating an open flame into its whimsical design to symbolize the transformation of waste into energy.

“Sid” The Green Energy Dragon is warmly named after Haldo Sidney “Sid” Frederickson IV, who had an award-winning career at the AWTF and was dedicated to advancing more efficient and effective wastewater treatment technologies.  Sid served the City of Coeur d’Alene for 30 years, working in the wastewater department from 1991 to 2016.  Born in 1945 in Richmond, Utah, he passed away on November 13, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and commitment to environmental stewardship.

The sculpture also features an educational component, including a glass mosaic illustrating how anaerobic bacteria convert waste into methane.  Students from the Coeur d’Alene Boys and Girls Club contributed to the project by creating mosaic elements integrated into the artwork.

“Coeur d’Alene is providing a fun and imaginative way for the community to learn about the AWTF and the role of biogas,’ said Mayor Woody McEvers.  “This sculpture is not only a beautiful addition to our public art collection but also an opportunity to educate and inspire.”

The dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for “Sid” The Green Energy Dragon will take place on April 24, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., at the AWTF, located along the Centennial Trail at 1080 Hubbard Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814. 

For Immediate Release: October 10, 2024

MAYOR’S AWARDS IN THE ARTS RENAMED TO COEUR D’ALENE ARTS AWARDS TO CELEBRATE REGIONAL TALENT AND CULTURE

The Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is excited to announce that the Mayor’s Awards in the Arts will now be known as the Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards.  The name change reflects the City’s commitment to celebrating the region’s abundant creative talent and the cultural vibrancy that defines Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding communities.

The new name emphasizes inclusivity and regional pride, shifting the focus from a single office to the broader community.  By adopting the name Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards, we aim to honor not only the incredible contributions of our artists but also the diverse cultural landscape that makes our region unique

While the name may be different, the mission remains the same: to recognize and promote artistic excellence in all its forms.  The Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards will continue to showcase the best in local arts, from visual art to music, theatre, dance, and more.

We look forward to celebrating the extraordinary talent of our region at the next Coeur d’Alene Arts Awards event, and we invite everyone to join us in recognizing the vital role the arts play in enriching our community.

Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this exciting new chapter!

For Immediate Release:  September 19, 2024

28th Annual Mayor’s Awards in the Arts

The City of Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission is pleased to announce the following winners of the 28th Annual Mayor’s Awards in the Arts: 

The Arts Commission is delighted to extend a special invitation to you for the upcoming 2024 Mayor’s Awards in the Arts, a night of celebration and recognition of artistic excellence.

EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Hagadone Events Center, 984 S. Floating Green Drive, Coeur d’Alene, ID

Don't miss this chance to celebrate the arts, recognize extraordinary talent, and be part of an unforgettable evening. The event will be emceed by the one and only Stephen Shortridge and showcase the talents of some of the best artists in the Inland Northwest including Summer Ward, Aspire Theatre, Jim Phillips, the brass quintet of the CDA Symphony, and the Northern Dance Academy.  Jennifer Passaro will be inducted as the City of Coeur d’Alene’s inaugural Poet Laureate. Sculptor Cheryl Metcalf will create art in real time and Emerge art students will display their art.  Jojo Dodge will entertain during the social hour, all ensuring a night to remember!

The Mayor’s Awards in the Arts are presented by the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission and the City of Coeur d’Alene to recognize and encourage excellence in the arts and to stimulate and support awareness of the arts throughout the city.

We encourage you to RSVP today as seating is limited.  Thank you for your continued support of the arts in Coeur d’Alene.  We look forward to sharing this exceptional evening with you.

Please RSVP to Arts Commission Chair Mary Lee Ryba at [email protected] by October 1, 2024.

For more information contact Jo Anne Mateski, Arts Commission staff support, at [email protected] or (208) 666-5754.