This past weekend, The Matthews was alive with energy, creativity, and connection—a true celebration of everything we stand for.
On Friday night, we filled the house with country music fans for a sold-out tribute concert to George Strait, featuring JJ Kent and the Aces & 8s band. The performance delivered a steady stream of #1 country hits, keeping the crowd singing along, dancing on our dance floor, and fully immersed in the timeless spirit of Strait’s music. It was one of those nights where the music wrapped around you and reminded you why we gather in spaces like this.
Just before the show, our art gallery opened its doors for the opening reception of Mind Matters, our newest exhibit created in partnership with the Lawrence County Coalition. The space buzzed with conversation as visitors explored powerful visual works and written narratives reflecting real stories of mental health, resilience, and hope. Many of the artists were present, engaging with guests about their process and inspiration. It was a moving example of how art can open hearts and start important conversations.
Mind Matters isn’t just a gallery exhibit—it’s a month-long initiative centered on wellness through creativity and connection. Alongside the artwork, we’re offering restorative yoga and sound bath sessions, a “Cultivating Mental Well-Being” workshop, a Lunch & Learn focused on breaking mental health stigma, and a special performance by Hearts of the Hills in collaboration with the South Dakota Humanities Council. It’s all part of our mission: Inspiring Creativity. Connecting Community. Check out our website for the upcoming events with this programming.
Saturday brought another sold-out experience with our Dot Mandala Painting Workshop in the Makespace studio. Participants rolled up their sleeves and dove into the meditative world of mandala-making, learning new techniques and creating stunning, intricate designs. It was hands-on, colorful, and a whole lot of fun—proof that creativity lives in all of us.
Thank you to everyone who joined us this weekend. Whether you came for the music, the art, the community, or all of the above, you helped make The Matthews a place where stories are shared, spirits are lifted, and creativity thrives.
Mind Matters will be on display in our gallery through the end of the month, and we encourage everyone to stop in, take a quiet moment, and experience the work for yourself. Whether you have ten minutes or an hour, the stories told through these pieces are worth your time. Admission is free, and the impact is lasting.
