End: Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Join artists, culture bearers, educators, arts leaders, and community partners from across North Dakota for a two‑day convening centered on creativity, connection, and community well‑being. Everyone interested in arts, culture, and heritage is invited!
Expect:
- Keynote speakers
- Peer-to-peer meetups
- Artist showcase
- Informational breakout sessions
- Shared meals and creative connection
- FREE outdoor block party hosted by Tom Brosseau!
Attendees will also enjoy a free, public block party with live music, food trucks, and an artist marketplace - a vibrant celebration of North Dakota’s creative spirit. Whether you’re an artist, an arts administrator, a community leader, or someone who simply loves the arts, this convening offers meaningful learning, statewide collaboration, and a chance to strengthen the creative ecosystem that makes North Dakota extraordinary.
Visit the SPECIAL event website to learn more and REGISTER TODAY!
2026 NDCA Statewide Arts Convening Website
Now Accepting Applications for Artist Showcase
The Artist Showcase (Sale) will take place the evening of October 6 during the free, public Block Party at the Radisson Bismarck, as part of our Arts Convening in Bismarck October 6–7. We will provide artists with free sales tables to showcase and sell their work.
While space is limited, we hope to represent artists from across North Dakota and a variety of artistic mediums. Tables will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with an effort to reserve 3–5 tables for each region of the state. Once a submission is approved by the committee, artists will receive additional information about setup and event details.
Participation in the evening Artist Sale does not require registration for the conference, though we encourage all participating artists to join us for the full convening. If the conference registration fee presents a barrier, please reach out to us.
We will also accept applications from groups of artists. If an artist doesn’t need a full table but would like to split a table with another artist, please indicate that in the application.
Join us in shaping North Dakota’s creative future by becoming a 2026 Arts Convening Sponsor! Whether you choose our Visionary ($2,500), Curator ($1,500), Collector ($500), or In‑Kind level, your support directly fuels two days of statewide connection, inspiration, and community celebration. Sponsors receive valuable visibility while uplifting artists, educators, culture bearers, and creative leaders across North Dakota. From prime recognition and booth placement to sponsoring major conference moments like the block party or breakout sessions, each level offers a meaningful way to highlight your commitment to the arts. Help us make this year’s convening our most impactful yet—become a sponsor and stand with us in celebrating creativity, community, and the power of the arts.
If you would like to sponsor our convening, please contact Public Info Officer / Accessibility Coordinator Rhea Beto | rbeto@nd.gov | (701) 328-7594.