I began this painting on Jan. 1, 2015, and it was officially signed on Christmas Day, 2015. I reflect on all those who made the Coast Guard painting come to life, and at year’s end, appreciate all the support as the 3rd painting comes to a close. The painting will be installed at the Cemetery on February 6, 2016. Much more to come. With all my very best to all of you in the New Year.

Coast Guard painting signed

Officially signing the Coast Guard painting

It’s December 5th, and the painting is heading towards completion. Just two months away from installation, scheduled for February 6, 2016. Details to come. Once the Coast Guard painting is installed, the project is 3/5 complete–with thanks to the donors whose belief in the project continues to inspire. To all Veterans and your families, each day on the painting is in honor of your commitment and sacrifice.

Coast Guard painting, Dec. 5, 2015.

While the Veterans Historic Art Project is one where I spend considerable time, my annual “Salon” is where I celebrate many other facets of my work.  This year’s Salon is a tribute to “Generations”—a theme that resonates. In July 2014, I travelled to Stazzema, Italy to honor my former instructor, Nerina Simi, whose impact on my art and life proved invaluable. In that vein, this year’s Salon includes works by former and current students who have studied with me at some time—and whose artistic talent has taken root in their own lives/careers, and in the case of the younger students, is just taking off.

In partnership with my friends and artists in their own right, Celo V’ec and Carol Christensen, Subito Chamber Orchestra will play that evening. Subito is an inter-generational string chamber orchestra directed by teacher and performer Celo V’ec. Comprised of a dozen of his most advanced students, the orchestra was formed to provide a performance ensemble adequate to the considerable abilities of the members. You will not be disappointed.

 Students whose work will be on display, (many of whom will be attending the event) include: Jeffrey Hurinenko, Ann Marie Ethen, Stella Hecht, Jill McIntire, Claire Miller, Matthew Toenies, Chris Welch, and Christina Welch.

This article Kapsner’s annual salon to highlight importance of ‘old school’ art training for future generations  sheds more light on the legacy of the Salon, and generational importance.

 “Generations” provides the opportunity for you to view, learn and support the work of established and emerging artists. I hope to see you there!

Upper Left: Kapsner with Nerina Simi, circa 1979; upper right Kapsner and student Claire Miiller, circa 2015; lower left: Subito Chamber Orchestra, circa 2015

Last week Kapsner received a packet in the mail from Homeland Security…which, no matter what gives a person pause. But inside was terrific news: Charles is a new member of the Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) which uses fine art as an outreach tool for educating diverse audiences about the United States Coast Guard. The program is a partnership between the Coast Guard and the Salmagundi Art Club, a New York City artistic and cultural center for over 140 years. INTERESTING FACT: The United States Coast Guard is the only military organization within the Department of Homeland Security.

As part of a visit to the Brainerd region, Congressmen Nolan and Walz were granted some one-on-one time with artist Charles Kapsner and Veterans Educational Historic Project committee members Phil Ringstrom and Joseph Schirmers, VFW State Chaplain.  Kapsner noted that they were able to converse more about the project and share ideas for more outreach. “It was a great honor to have them both take time out of a hectic schedule and see the paintings”, Kapsner said.

Congressmen Rick Nolan and TIm Walz in front of the U.S. Navy painting. L-R, Phil Ringstrom, Congressman Rick Nolan, Charles Kapsner, Congressman Tim Walz, and Joseph Schirmers.

Great coverage for the Coast Guard painting in the St. Cloud Times Memorial Day Marks Progress for Little Falls artist. Great images and story by Frank Rajkowski and photos by Kimm Anderson. Join us at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery on Sunday, May 24th where the Coast Guard painting will be on display and Kapsner will be there to talk about the paintings. The theme of Sunday’s event is “Honoring Women of the U.S. Military.” Carla L. Tappainer, 1st vice commander of the Apple Valley American Legion Post 1776, will be the guest speaker. The service begins at 1:30 p.m. with instrumental music from the Richfield Symphonic Orchestra and continues with a parade of flags at 1:55 p.m. Join us in honoring the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The Sunday, May 3rd edition of the Star Tribune included the Project in its special edition Art Worth the Drive which was part of its special 12-page Museums and Attractions in Minnesota, featuring 20 of the “best art and museum artifacts in outstate Minnesota.”

Kapsner has been working on the Coast Guard painting, which is anticipated to be on display as a “work in progress” for the Memorial Day events at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery May 22 -24. More to come. For now…much is beginning to show.

Current status of the Navy painting