We’ve Created A Legacy, Now We’re Building On It
Our facilities have overshadowed those things that have made the Center experience so unique. As of March 2025, the team is 40% complete with construction documents in preparation for project bidding in June 2025. Construction is set to begin as soon as the camp season concludes the first week of August. Read more about how we plan to renovate, restore, and enhance the setting where the magic happens.
Act II: Capital Campaign Fundraiser
Take a walk through Act II
The Legacy
In 1967, high school band director Darrell Aderman recognized the need for a regional educational arts center in his hometown of Shell Lake, WI. He believed that all students deserved to learn from master teachers and bringing them together in the small northwest Wisconsin community of Shell Lake was sure to result in some magic. He utilized the classrooms and cafeteria at the Shell Lake High School and rallied the community to support the building of dormitories. Upon completion in 1968, what is now known as the Shell Lake Arts Center was born.
57 years later, the Shell Lake Arts Center continues on, offering some of the best arts education in the country. The Shell Lake Arts Center prides itself on providing students the chance to work with world-renowned instructors for an affordable cost, all while being located in the beautiful Wisconsin Northwoods. All of our programs are non-auditioned, meaning that students of all ages and ability levels are encouraged to attend.
…the Shell Lake Arts Center continues on, offering some of the best arts education in the country.
We have been able to impact the lives of over 43,000 students since our doors first opened, some of whom have gone on to be Grammy winning, internationally acclaimed musicians such as Lyle Mays, Bill Evans, Justin Vernon, and Geoffrey Keezer. But, regardless of where our alumni end up, the arts have played a profound impact on each of their lives.
Our Mission
Element I
Accelerate Learning
With Relevant And Meaningful Courses Of Study For Youth And Adult Students Of All Ages.
The importance of art in society can’t be overstated. We know that music and the arts are key to student development and research shows us that involvement in the arts is associated with gains in math, reading, cognitive ability, critical thinking, and verbal skills. Our goal is to create an environment where adult and school age students have meaningful connections, find their voices, create art, and grow and reach their full potential.
Element II
Strengthen Community Connections
By Offering Diverse And Creative Opportunities That Bring Us Together.
The Arts bring people together. We gather to enjoy music with our friends, be moved by a community theater play, or marvel at the uniqueness of a piece of pottery or metalwork. Art inspires engagement and a feeling of belonging to a community.
Element III
Champion Teaching
By Promoting And Providing Opportunities For Personal And Professional Growth That Builds Strong Music And Arts Education Programs.
The Arts bring people together. We gather to enjoy music with our friends, be moved by a community theater play, or marvel at the uniqueness of a piece of pottery or metalwork. Art inspires engagement and a feeling of belonging to a community.
A Critical Need
The strength of the faculty is second to none. The unique ability of our “Master Teachers” to stay at the forefront of their craft, use the latest teaching methods, meet the diverse needs of the students, and perform on the international stage is as true in 2023 as it was in 1968.
The beauty and peacefulness of Northwest Wisconsin has never been more important to the Shell Lake Arts Center experience than it is today. The opportunity to hike the trails or take that short walk to town, to enjoy the amazing lake and feel safe when out and about in this serene community provides a magic to the setting.
The beauty and peacefulness of Northwest Wisconsin has never been more important…
Regrettably, our antiquated facilities have overshadowed those things that have made the Center experience so unique. Our master teachers are hampered in their ability to teach at the high level they have been accustomed to. The residential accommodations and the condition of the teaching areas have become the predominant focus of the setting.
The end result is that our facilities jeopardize our ability to meet the needs of our students, educators and community today and in the future.
A Magic Setting Reimagined
Major renovations and enhancements would provide building improvements necessary for the creative and critically important work conducted by our ‘master teachers’ in this ‘magic setting’.
The renovations to the performance spaces, gathering areas, classrooms, and the kitchen and dining room will provide opportunities for the community to come together and experience all that art has to offer. These spaces will also provide venues for the community and region to use for corporate, business and family events.
Now We’re Building On It.
Set to break ground August 2025.
Find Your Seats: The Intermission is Over
After rigorous fundraising, generous donations, and the award of a state grant, the Center and its design team has re-grouped and re-evaluated.
RVA and Market & Johnson have been applying present-day construction cost data to the conceptual design developed in Fall of 2022. This exercise has informed the team that estimated costs for the concepts currently on the boards (a combination of heavy remodeling and new construction at the cafeteria & lobby) has had some significant increases due to various factors. One of the main factors is simply the time that has passed since the initial cost estimates were completed in Fall 2022, alongside other factors such as the age and condition of the existing building, the amount of ‘unknowns’ the budget needs to account for at this time, and the continued unpredictability in the construction industry.
The estimated costs to remodel with some new construction became much closer to estimated costs for full demolition paired with new construction.
Based on our findings, we collectively support the idea of demolishing the existing cafeteria, kitchen and connecting link, and building a more efficient dual-use space.
From RVA and Market & Johnson:
A few other notes that support our decision:
- Opportunity for a more efficient layout as we build our own footprint, instead of fitting into one that already exists
- Dual-use dining, event, and lobby space
- Commercial kitchen layout & equipment is not limited by existing size/configuration
- Increased opportunity to further connect surrounding levels, increasing accessibility and wayfinding
- A long-term solution: new construction is sure to have less immediate building issues than those of a building already 80 years old (the oldest part of campus)
- More fiscally responsible use of dollars and more feasible with funds to date
Just as we explored many avenues of design, it was important to fully explore investing in the existing cafeteria vs building new.
After diligent consideration, we are certain the present concept will best support the Center’s immediate and long-term goals in a fiscally responsible manner.
Areas of Focus
We are presenting the preliminary design concepts and strategies, as recommended by River Valley Architects, for the following:
Accessibility, Wayfinding & Entry Points
After three building additions, one major demolition and multiple renovations, the main facility has had many challenges related to access and connection. Existing entrance locations are not readily apparent, nor are they secure; wayfinding is difficult, and general accessibility requirements are not recognized. To address these problems and transform both the image and function of the existing facility, a new addition (to replace the existing “link/ramp”) has been designed to connect the presently disjointed areas of the existing building. Along with modifications to existing entrances and site, the new atrium greatly improves circulation around and through the building and in so doing, encourages a more intuitive sense of direction and wayfinding. The atrium itself becomes a center point, main entrance, and a more uniform spatial environment, which results in a stronger and more cohesive identity. Implementation of elevators and code-compliant ramps allow accessible paths to any level in the main building, including the stage.
Equity & Inclusion
Challenging former assumptions, standards, and biases as they relate to privacy and gender identity is a priority for both the center and RVA. The integration of both accessible and single-user restrooms campus-wide helps to realize a portion of these needs. Increased privacy in lodge restroom and shower accommodations better serves the wide range of ages, abilities, gender expressions, and privacy preferences that use the facilities. By implementing human-centered design strategies into the built environment, the center can continue to build upon their high standard of inclusion and equity.
Functional Space Needs
Although existing spaces have been adapted in an attempt to serve the wide range of functions at the center, there are many activities that are not served adequately by the current facility. Outdated and deteriorating dining and food service areas have been re-designed to accommodate current needs as a cafeteria for large-group meals, with the additional design stamina to allow its use as a new, sought-after event venue for the community. Administrative and performance spaces across the campus have been adapted to better serve functional needs as well as connection, flexibility, and space efficiency. Brand new spaces, including a makerspace, production studio, and art gallery align with the center’s master planning and future goals.
Systems & Fire Protection
Building systems, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing, are outdated and do not support the center’s current needs. The upgrade to more efficient mechanical systems provides the center with enhanced performance, including the addition of air conditioning in all spaces, while also reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. An overhaul of lighting throughout the center modernizes the interior and improves functional quality & flexibility. The addition of a building sprinkler system integrates current building code compliance and improves life safety measures.
Aesthetic Presentation
Dated existing facilities and deteriorating construction on both the exterior and interior pose practical issues as well as lending impressions of the center that do not accurately represent the magic of the Arts Center experience. By harmonizing both old and new design components with creative and modern design techniques, the center’s history and character is retained while also bringing the facility into the current century. The design team honored the center’s history by preserving significant architectural features, including mosaic murals and original brick construction. A complete refresh of all new and existing spaces not only satisfies functional goals and performance requirements, but also more accurately represents the center’s drive for progress and growth. Exterior transparency allowing for better appreciation of the surrounding natural environment aligns with the center’s roots in the heart of the Wisconsin’s Northwoods, and reinforces that timeless and well-suited connection between the arts and nature.
“…remember, your dollars are not fostering brick and mortar, but hearts and minds.”
Professor Bob Baca, Director of SLAC Trumpet Workshop, Jazz Ensemble Instructor
The Best is Yet to Come!
To learn more about the project or becoming a donor-
Call: 715.468.2414 x 3
Email: build@ShellLakeArtsCenter.org
Our Capital Campaign Donors
We would like to acknowledge and give our sincerest thanks to all those who have given and continue to give to the Capital Campaign- this generosity allows us to continue on our mission of providing experiences in the arts that can make an impact of a lifetime.
If you, or someone you know, is a donor and not listed, please know that this is unintentional and encourage you to contact the office if you wish to be included on our donor lists.
2024 Donors
Dorothy Anderson
Jacob Arnold
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Gary Bird
Lynne Bishop & Bill Ficken
Steven & Delores Bjerke
Jon Blomquist
Daniel & Nancy Boe
Ronald & Jeanne Brown
Therese Canfield
Dave & Corinne Colburn
Megan Conners
Kim Coran
Kari Doyle
Ed & Akemi Fischer
Joe & Joan Fitzgerald
Matthew Golke
Kerry Graf
Katie Guyer & Steve Grego
Reyn Guyer
Harvey Halpaus
Cynthia Halvorson
Leighton & Kathy Harrison
Dave & Donna Heyer
Jim, Bonnie & Douglas Jarvis
Fred Johnson
Terri Johnson
Fred & Megan Johnson
Bruce Keyser
Andrew Kirov
John & Dahrys Knetter
Nickie & Paul Kromminga Hill
Lynnea & Tim Lake
Linda Lennox
James Lewis
Steve & Karen Lewis
John & Jane Lokken
Jan Masterjohn
Carl & Judy Meincke
Robin Mercier
Jim Meyers
Sara & Don Miller
Jeffrey Mortensen
Debra Nebel
Lee Prill & Janice Ogden
Catherine Olson
Gary & Jo Anne Olson
Michael & Patricia Pesko
Benjamin & Lynn Peterson
Jim & Connie Root
Beth & Joe Rousseau
Janine Rueter
Ann Ruschy
Maureen Skuban
Stephen & Christine Smith
Phil & Ila Soltis
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
Bill Taubman
Linda Thompson
Beverly Bohac & Mark Van Etten
Phillip Warner
Lucas West
Kim Wilczyk
Sue Winesburg
Steve & Siri Zenz
Shell Lake Lions Club
Shell Lake State Bank
White Tails Unlimited
2023 Donors
Don and Pat Aderman
DJ and Kari Aderman
Scott and Cindy Aderman
Carmala Aderman
Julie Ahasay
Jim Ahasay
Amber Anderson
Linda & Rob Anderson
Dellin & Laurie Bakkum
Lisa Kiener-Barnett & Pat Barnett
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Connie Berg
Mark and Cathy Berger
Gary and Lynn Berghuis
Jeri and Tom Bitney
Patrick & Julie Blackaller
Mary Lynn Boucher
Jamey Bowe, River Valley Architects
Barbara and Kent Brodsho
Bill & Carol Buchholtz
Dale & Sandra Cardwell
Steve & Gloria Carlson
Carol Carlson
Danya Case
Kevin & Mary Casey
Megan Conners
Kim Coran
Roxanne Stouffer Cruz
Steve & Linda Degner
Alyssa Degner
Fred and Sherri Diercks
Brian & Mary Dosch
Kari Doyle
Edward & Mary Dunbar
Dexie & Jeff Dunham
Carol Dunn
Dave & Debbie Ekern
Nancy Elmberg
Rollie Erickson
Brenda Everson
Tom & Linda Ferris
Ed & Akemi Fischer
Joe & Joan Fitzgerald
Mitch & Patti Fox
Mark and Beth Fritsche
Roger Neilsen & Victoria Gee-Treft
Scott and Korri Gerry
Donnie & Shannon Gilbert
Joanne & Mark Gillis
Kerry Graf
Bruce and Joan Greene
Rich and Carm Greenlee
Katie Guyer & Steve Grego
Jon & KathyGriffith
Duane and Carla Grimm
Paul Gulsvig
Ree Guyer
Kevin Hackett
Leighton and Kathy Harrison
Sharai Hefty
Jim & Carol Heim
Steven & Mary Hemshrot
Daniel & Tamara Herskovic
Dave & Donna Heyer
Susan Hoffman
Janet Holdt
Peter & Danette Hopke
Dan & Kimberly Hopkins
Christine & Neil Hulmer
Shannon and Chris Isaac
Rick and Louise Jasper
Bryan & Keri Jensen
Jean Johannes
Fred Johnson, Sr.
Fred and Megan Johnson
Janice and Dave Johnson
Joan Joules
Carol Kalscheur
Greg Keel
Rudy & Sharon Kessler
Barbara Peterson & Wallace Koel
Pat Krall
Sharon and Carl Krantz
Fred & Ruth Kruger
Anne and Larry Kubr
Linda and Mark Kuhlenengel
Kurt & Dena Kunkel
Scott & Jennifer Kunselman
Ben Kunselman
Lynnea & Tim Lake
Michael and Barb Lemke
Lynn & Dan Lenort
Steve & Karen Lewis
James Lewis
Kyle & Greta Linton
Vern and Dixie Lokken
John & Jane Lokken
Market and Johnson
Stephanie and Dale Marker
Nancy and Dennis Maury
Robin Mercier
Sara & Don Miller
Bonnie Modjeski
Peter & Kim Moen
Glenda & Paul Moen
Jene Morey
Jeffrey Mortensen
Dave and Jan Mueller Schmitfanz
Debra Nebel
Joan Neises
Pr. Rich and Dee Noeldner
Amy and Brad Oemig
Lee Prill & Janice Ogden
Kathy & Dave Okonek
Shaun Olson
Catherine Olson
Doug & Dawn Olson
Gary & Jo Anne Olson
Paul Osborn
David and Shar Parish
Joni Parker
Kate and Dick Pederson
Andrea Pelloquin
Scott Perlick
Rod and Darlene Peterson
Carolyn Pittman
Dan and Jocelyn Prust
Delores Rasmussen
Ron & Jean Reimann
Maureen Revak
Norma Riehm
Daniel Rosenbush
Eugene & Norma Rousseau
Lisa-Marie and Eric Rousseau Tollesfsrud
Janine Ruetter
Ann Ruschy
Arlys Santiago
Savas Designs
Jody Schlapper
David & Sarah Schmalenberger
John Schmidt
Warren & Linda Schneider
Sonia Scott
Dale & Karen Scribner
Cathy Severance
Jim & Kathy Shattuck
Maureen and Jay Skuban
Marilyn Slezak
Timothy (Joe) and Patty Smith
Scott & Tamara Smith
Marlene Solie
Phil & Ila Soltis
Dean Southern
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
Donald & Kathleen Stanislawski
Al and Brenda Sterns
Amy Stouffer
Elaine Studt
Bill Taubman
Frances and Larry Teply
Charlotte Thompson
Linda Thompson
Gloria Thue
John & Kristin Tjornehoj
Beth Tracy
Jennifer Turcott
Beverly Bohac & Mark Van Etten
Pr. Steve and Karen Warden Swedberg
William Welshons
Duke and Kris Welter
Ann and Larry Werner
Sonjia Wilson
Gerald Winch
Annette Ancel-Wisner & Gary Wisner
Nancy Wuerker
Crystal and John Zagnoli
David & Wanda Zeug
2022 Donors
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Steven & Delores Bjerke
John & Jane Lokken
Bruce & Sara Qualey
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
Randall Wanless
2021 Donors
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Gary Bird
John Casserly
Clarke & Virginia Crandell
Ethan Freier
Kara Hayford
Michael Hilger
Lynnea & Tim Lake
Ron & Gloria Larson
Steve & Karen Lewis
Steve & Debby Lineer
John & Jane Lokken
Donald & Aimee Pashby
Michael & Ann Ring
Beth & Joe Rousseau
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
James K. & Ruth Trembath
2020 Donors
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Rick & Sue Benish
Mark Berger
Jennifer and Jason Boucher
Leann Breed
Ronald & Jeanne Brown
Dave & Corinne Colburn
Clarke & Virginia Crandell
Mike & Jessie Dugan
Jeffrey Ek
Ethan Freier
Dean & Linda Henderson
Heidi Hubbard
Lynnea & Tim Lake
Steve & Karen Lewis
Barbara Luedeke
Donald & Aimee Pashby
Bruce & Sara Qualey
Beth & Joe Rousseau
Ruth Skeie
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
2019 Donors
Laura Ahlin
Chris & Margot Barry
Scott & Alycia Bengtson
Mark Berger
Michelle Bracewell-Musson
Leann Breed
Ronald & Jeanne Brown
Steve & Gloria Carlson
David & Jeanne Chamberlain
Judy Christianson
Dave & Corinne Colburn
Judith Cook
Clarke & Virginia Crandell
Douglas Cudd
Bruce & Diane Davenport
Lisa Dick
Brian & Mary Dosch
Jessica Eno
Ethan Freier
Jeff Gottwig
Reyn & Mary Guyer
Bern & EvelynHapke
Jim & Carol Heim
Bill & Dolly Holmson
Mary Keezer
Lynnea & Tim Lake
Steve & Karen Lewis
John & Jane Lokken
Kandice & Paul Mascotti & Hoot
Dennis McGraw
Benjamine Milne
Layne Morgan
Debra Nebel
Lee Prill & Janice Ogden
Catherine Olson
Gary & Jo Anne Olson
Donald & Aimee Pashby
Karen & Peter Quam
Amy Rantala
Rebecca Rayboy
Reagan & Karen Reynolds
Jocelyn & Randy Richardt
Beth & Joe Rousseau
David & Sarah Schmalenberger
Steven & Kathryn Schmidt
Sam & Eman Shehadeh
Milton Snoeyenbos
Jeff Southern
Sheila & Stan Squires
Bill Taubman
Sharon Tobias
Shane Williams
Marsha & John Wilmes