By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
Long-time Northfield area educator and theater director Bob Gregory-Bjorklund is this year’s Living Treasure Award Recipient. The Living Treasure Award honors an individual who has, over a period of time, made significant contributions to Northfield in, through, or on behalf of the arts and culture, so as to enhance the reputation of the city and the quality of life of its residents and visitors.
Among the previous recipients of the award include the founders of the Arts Guild, Youth Choir, and Studio Art Tour, influential and impactful sculptors, gardeners, and so much more. Previous recipients of the award have included Judith Swanson, artist and graphics designer; Judy Code, gardening artist; Donna Paulsen, musician and teacher; Mac Gimse, sculptor; and Wayne Kivell, choir director and teacher, among other noteworthy individuals.
In the words of his nominators, “Bob Gregory-Bjorklund’s contributions to Northfield’s arts and culture scene have been transformative. His work as a theater teacher and director has shaped Northfield’s identity as a community that values creativity, inclusivity, and the performing arts.”
As a student who has been through Bob’s theater programs, through middle school and high school, I would second the previous statement and note the incredible positive impact he has had on my life and so many other students in this community. Here’s Gregory-Bjorklund on ArtZany last year talking about returning for another year of Rock N Roll Revival a program he has helped lead since the 2000:
“Well you know I am at a stage in my life where I’m liking my downtime, I’m liking it. But that day that I came back, I remember thinking: oh, this is good, this feels good. It feels good to work with you guys, you know, and not just musically, but interpersonally, you know, and it’ll be cliche, but there’s a lot of love that goes on through this show. And that’s part of what makes.” – Bob Gregory-Bjorklund on ArtZany in 2024 talking about Rock n Roll Revival
Gregory-Bjorklund will be honored at an event Monday evening at The Grand Events Center. The doors for the event open at 7pm, and it is free to attend to the public.
Congratulations again to Bob for all your incredible work in the community and for your dedication to the arts in Northfield
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