about the exhibit

Our community is full of German and Irish culture. We thought it would be interesting to show families’ histories as well as general history about German, German Russians, and Irish descendants who thrived in Scottsbluff. These stories will be gathered by Michele Denton and various members of our community! Alongside that culture, Black leaders from around the world will be displayed. Steph Coley did research for these leaders. This exhibit will be presented January 1 - 24, 2025. Then, during Black History month, a show called “Portraits of Black Leaders”, a captivating Black & White photography exhibition showcasing the work of Herb Thompson, will be coming. The people in these portraits all have ties to Nebraska, and Thompson is showing how these connections helped make these leaders fulfill their missions in life. The exhibition will be on display in the Bronson Gallery. Herb Thompson’s pieces will be on display February 5 – 21, 2025.

Herb Thompson is known for his intimate formal portraiture, unique landscapes, revealing architecture, and special event photography. This exhibition will feature thirteen pieces that explore the rich historical and cultural heritage rarely seen by audiences. The contributions of this group of African American leaders are vast, extending well beyond Nebraska.

The West Nebraska Arts Center is a cultural non-profit organization committed to education, awareness, and excellence in the arts, serving the North Platte Valley Region. WNAC is located at 106 East 18th Street in Scottsbluff, NE. Visit the Arts Center’s website, www.thewnac.com, to learn more.

The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported this program through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit www.nebraskaartscouncil.org for information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

 special thanks

Special thanks to volunteers Laura Clark and Karen Mecklem for their assistance in the gallery. Also, thank you to the West Nebraska Arts Center Board for bringing food to the reception.

 about WNAC

The West Nebraska Arts Center is a 501c3 cultural non-profit organization committed to education, awareness, and excellence in the arts, serving the North Platte Valley Region.  WNAC is located at the corner of 1st Avenue and 18th Street in Scottsbluff, NE.  Visit the gallery free of charge Tuesday through Friday, 10 to 5, Saturdays from 1 to 5. We are closed on Sunday and Monday. You can also visit our website for upcoming attractions at www.thewnac.com. Also, find us on Facebook and Instagram.

show your support

WNAC is supported by local businesses and individuals who value having the Arts Center in our community.  Do you support WNAC with an annual membership gift?  If not, please consider joining our efforts.  Members of the West Nebraska Arts Center receive first notification of our events.  Members also receive gallery postcards, a monthly newsletter, discounts on gallery and gift shop purchases, as well as classes, workshops, fundraiser tickets, and other special events.  You will also receive the WNAC newsletter and invitations to special events.  Activate or renew your membership online at www.thewnac.com, by visiting the Arts Center office, or call 308-632-2226.

Thank you to our Sponsors