Mankato — Three area painters will take center stage as Twin Rivers Council for the Arts presents its next Best in Art Series event Thursday, September 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Shared Spaces at Emy Frentz, 523 S. Second Street in Mankato.

The September event will feature painters Stephanie Drago, Jean Mannion and Tracy Murphy, who will each share their work, creative process and artistic goals with attendees. During the evening, each artist will give a 10-minute presentation or demonstration, offering guests an opportunity to learn more about the person and process behind the art.

The Twin Rivers Best in Art Series is held three times each year and was created to provide artists with both financial support and a platform to introduce their work to the community. The series is open to student, amateur and professional artists working across disciplines, including visual, performing, musical and culinary arts.

Each selected artist receives a stipend for participating and has the opportunity to earn one—or both—of two $500 awards.

The People’s Choice Award puts the decision directly in the hands of event attendees, who vote for the artist they would most like to see receive $500 to advance their artistic work. A separate Juror’s Choice Award of $500 is selected by the event jury.

Artists may use the award funds in whatever way best supports their continued creative development—from purchasing materials or equipment to education, professional expenses or funding future projects.

The September 10 event offers the public an opportunity to experience three artists and their work in an informal, engaging setting while having a direct role in supporting the local arts community.

The 2026 Twin Rivers Best in Art Series is underwritten by Tony and Anne Frentz.

For more information about the Best in Art Series and the September presenting artists, visit www.twinriversarts.org/best-in-art-series.

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About Twin Rivers Council for the Arts

Twin Rivers Council for the Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through the arts by supporting artists, fostering creative connections and developing programs that enhance the cultural vitality of Greater Mankato and southern Minnesota. Through initiatives including CityArt Mankato, Twin Rivers Writers Series, Creative Connections, public art projects, exhibitions and educational programming, Twin Rivers works to make the arts accessible and meaningful for everyone. www.twinriversarts.org.