In the winter of 2008, in order to fight the seasonal blahs and to get over the last hump of a bitter Minnesota winter, the Post Holiday Extravaganza began. The Extravaganza was a two day event involving art and music from local artists with enough creative energy to cure even the worst case of seasonal depression. After an immensely successful inaugural year the event became annual event in Mankato. In 2010 the Post Holiday Extravaganza took on new meaning when it became a benefit for my family and me after I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic and liver cancer. The community came together to raise enough money to allow me to focus on my health and still have energy after the weekly chemo treatments at Rochester Mayo Clinic to continue to be creative. After a year and a half of treatments my cancer has diminished and I am back to a somewhat normal state of health. Inspired by my increasingly improving mental and physical condition I have to give back. That's just who I am!
The outpouring of community at the 2010 Post Holiday Extravaganza spawned the creation of the Midwest Art Catalyst (MWAC). With the help of my nearest and dearest a non-profit organization was formed, with the goal to create, promote, and support artistic and musical events and ideas. In addition to donating to local art and music programs we also sponsor fundraisers for individual causes. Our goal is to bring the community's creativity closer together and thus making us all a bit stronger and more inspired. Get on board! MWAC is for everyone who needs a little creative stimulation to complete their lives.
Thanks for life...
Edgar Burn aka Eric Barnes
The goal of the Midwest Art Catalyst is to support the growth of the arts community in our area. We hold fundraisers to fund art and music programs in our local public schools and to provide arts. We're always looking for new ideas!
