History of Sheyenne Valley Arts & Crafts Association

Anne and Bjarne Ness retired and moved to Fort Ransom in 1965, where they started the Bjarne Ness Art Gallery. It served as a home, meeting place, and Art and Craft Instruction Center. For the first three years these “Art, Crafts & Hobby” Shows were held in the Ness’ back yard, as they opened their home and yard to area artists and craftsmen.  After Bjarne's death in 1970, Anne was instrumental in forming the Sheyenne Valley Arts & Crafts Association( SVACA, Inc.), for the purpose of preserving Bjarne's work through the Bjarne Ness Gallery, to sponsor the annual Arts, Crafts & Hobby Festival, and to promote fine arts and crafts in rural North Dakota by conducting classes and seminars throughout the year. SVACA is a non-profit organization, and with yearly grants sponsors art and education in the local schools, and helps support the Ransom County Museum. There is a Board of Directors that meets monthly to take care of the business of the corporation and to arrange for the yearly arts and crafts show.

Each year the Arts & Crafts show has attracted more exhibitors and more visitors.

SVACA is successful because of Bjarne’s dream and Anne’s dedication to the project that encouraged and directed the dedication to discover the world of art for everyone involved.