On Oct. 15, the Elkader Opera House was the site of one of six Regional Arts Forums held by the Iowa Arts Council across Iowa in September and October.

These in-person events were free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for local artists, arts and civic leaders and community members to gather and discuss opportunities for strengthening arts and culture in their region and across the state.

The Iowa Arts Council said the purpose of the Regional Arts Forums is to identify opportunities and review possible changes related to programs that support arts and cultural enhancement in the state.

The forum in Elkader focused on collaboration, asking attendees to distinguish successful collaborations from those that struggle. Together, the group explored leadership practices, relationships, structures and resources that help organizations work better together.

Among those in attendance were Elkader city leaders and community members affiliated with the opera house, Main Street Elkader, Art in the Park and the overall arts community. During introductions, they said they hoped the forum would offer insight into engaging the next generation and exploring/expanding new arts opportunities and partnerships.

“I love our small community and how it has so many people who are so passionate,” said volunteer and artist Jillian Webb Herrmann. “How do we keep sharing that with people? We want to see it keep going.”