About Us
Art and Community in the Wisconsin Valley
The Wisconsin Valley Art Association has been a gathering place for artists in Wausau and the surrounding area since 1951.
Our History
Over 75 Years of Art in Wausau
The Wisconsin Valley Art Association was founded in 1951 by a small group of Wausau-area artists who believed that art should be accessible to everyone — not just those with formal training or gallery connections. They gathered together to share and critique,, art, create, and encourage one another.
Over the decades, the association grew into an active community artists in central Wisconsin. We have hosted many of exhibitions, workshops, and children's art events, and have welcomed hundreds of members across every skill level and medium.
Today, WVAA remains true to its founding mission to advance art in our communities through creating opportunities through scholarship, exhibitions, and education for all artists regardless of age or skill level.
Our Mission
To promote the arts and encourage the understanding, enjoyment, and practice of visual arts and opportunities for education.
Inclusivity
Art belongs to everyone. We welcome beginners, hobbyists, and seasoned professionals with equal enthusiasm.
Community
We believe artists grow best together. Our events, classes, and exhibitions are designed to build lasting connections.
Excellence
We hold our exhibitions, instruction, and programming to a high standard — because our members deserve nothing less.
Accessibility
We keep membership and class fees affordable so that cost is never a barrier to participation.
Board of Directors
Leadership
WVAA is governed by a volunteer board of working artists and community members who give their time to keep the association thriving.
Shyanne Borchardt
President
Shyanne has been a dedicated member for over 25 years, serving on the board and various committees. She enjoys painting drawing and card-making.
Jan Pflieger
Vice President
Jan has been a member for 54 years. She has served in every position on the board and started Art in the Park. Jan enjoys drawing and painting among other modalities.
Leeann Schulz
Corresponding Secretary
Leeann is an artist and longtime WVAA member who has served for Art in the Park and Balloon Jubilee for a number of years.
Julie Stine
Treasurer
While she is newer to the WVAA, Julie enjoys the fellowship, participating in exhibitions and fundraisers. She enjoys pyrography and woodworking
Rick Builer
Recording Secretary
RIck is dedicated member of the WVAA and has been a genuine contribution to the association as recording secretary for years. Rick mainly enjoys photography.
MJ Allar
Marketing Communications
MJ is an artist transplanted from the Milwaukee area. She has experience in painting, photography, and graphic design.
Membership
Join the Wisconsin Valley Art Association
Membership is open to all artists — beginners, hobbyists, and professionals alike. Join us and become part of a community that has been celebrating art in the Wisconsin Valley for over 75 years.
Individual
$25 / year
- Discounted rates on all classes and workshops
- Eligibility to exhibit in member shows
- Monthly newsletter and event announcements
- Access to monthly meetings
- Voting rights at annual meeting
Family
$30 / year
- All Individual benefits for household members
- Discounted rates on all classes and workshops
- Eligibility to exhibit in member shows
- Monthly newsletter and event announcements
- Access to monthly member meetings
Student
$15 / year
- Discounted rates on all classes and workshops
- Eligibility to exhibit in member shows
- Monthly newsletter and event announcements
- Access to monthly member meetings
Membership Inquiry
Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch with membership details and how to complete your registration.