Minnetonka, Minnesota – (April 16, 2008) – Ridgedale Center announced that it has signed a three year partnership with Minnetonka Center for the Arts, a nonprofit community-based organization which provides instruction in the visual arts. The partnership, the first of its kind between a regional shopping center and art center in Minnesota history, provides an opportunity for Ridgedale Center customers to experience original art from local artists while shopping at their favorite retailers.

Twenty exquisite art displays located throughout Ridgedale’s department store wings and center court will be updated twice a year with new art from the Art Center’s member artists program. A custom display unit in the mall’s center court will highlight the Art Center as a fixture in the suburban art experience and will detail the partnership that brought these two organizations together.

“We’ve put together a collection of art at Ridgedale Center that’s intended to delight the eye with its character and quality,” said Roxanne Heaton, executive director of the Minnetonka Center for the Arts. We’re excited to have an opportunity to showcase the work of our member artists and build awareness of the work we do in the community.”

“This partnership enhances the upgraded environment of the remodeled center,” said Joan Suko, Ridgedale Center general manager. “As we prepare for the opening of Nordstrom, our partnership with Minnetonka Center for the Arts will further complement our vision of ‘people creating special places and experiences’. The Art Center is a significant cultural landmark and benefit to the western suburbs. Ridgedale Center is thrilled to assist them in their mission of arts education.”

The Minnetonka Center for the Arts was founded as a non-profit organization in 1952 on the belief that communities thrive when the riches and vitality of the visual arts are part of everyday life. For more than fifty years, the Art Center has showcased teaching excellence, quality exhibitions and cultural enrichment by offering both on- and off-site education for people of all ages, interests, and abilities. Since its doors opened, Minnetonka Center for the Arts has grown into a regional center for creating art and viewing exhibitions. Skilled instructors, who are also working artists, share their expertise and enthusiasm through a variety of classes and workshops including: ceramics, sculpture, glass and jewelry, drawing, painting, fiber and photography. For more information on the Minnetonka Center for the Arts please visit www.MinnetonkaArts.org.

LOCATION: Ridgedale Center

TIME: Mall Hours

SPONSOR: Minnetonka Center for the Arts

CONTACT: 952.541.4864