On Saturday I met my friend Pranam at the Art Shanty Projects on White Bear Lake. After we took some wide-angled shots, I headed into the crowd with one goal: capture the people of the event.

I didn't go into very many shanties that day. Instead I opted to stay outside and people-watch. And laugh. A lot.

The Sparkle Parade was fabulous! The bear and seal bikes were amazing. I loved the performance artists - the two women having a picnic, the water man giving out tastes of fabulous local spring water + the vibrant band!

At one point I remember thinking, "these are my people." 😂 I loved it! So much energy and creativity!

People arrived on kick-sleds, snow-shoes, fat tire bikes and all sorts of creations!

Again, I feel so lucky to be on the staff this year. Thank you Art Shanty board and artists! You all are so kind + fun! I am honored to be a part of this!

Jill

Yippeee! The Art Shanty Projects are back! Only in Minnesota can you spend your days wandering a community of artistic ice shanties on a frozen lake! They are set up on White Bear Lake and open every weekend in February. My dog Wally and I popped out for a visit on Wednesday while they were setting up. There was a foot of new snow. The sun was out. It was darn near perfect.

It may look empty now, but starting this weekend, crowds will flock to one of Minnesota's most unique events!

If you want to visit here's what you need to know:

• It is about 30-40 minutes from Mpls

• To get there, use google maps with "White Bear Lake County Park 51110"

• It will take you to a park with a large lot where you can leave your car

• The shanties are on a frozen lake - but only about a block or two from shore.

• There is a very well plowed path leading out to the shanties.

• There are no bathrooms on the ice, but several back on shore.

• There will be a food truck or you are welcome to bring your own snacks, food, beverages.

• White Bear Lake is a super cute town with a lot of restaurants and shops.

• If you have kids, a rugged jog stroller could work, but a sled would be great too!

• Dress like you are going sledding: ski gloves, snow boots, hats, etc. There can be a little more wind on the ice than on shore.

• Non-service dogs are discouraged.

• Each shanty has artists inside and a different theme. They invite you into their shanty to interact. There's even a dance shanty!

• There are several ongoing performances like magic shows and parades - see their site for details

• Truly fun for all ages

• Open 10-4 every Sat & Sun in Feb

• Minnstameets is having an Instameet there at 9:30am on Saturday, Feb 20th. Meet the artists, free coffee & breakfast! Open to anyone in Minnesota with an Instagram account

• I am honored to announce that I am on the Art Shanty Projects staff this year as their official photographer!

And finally, three tips to keep your iPhone from dying:

• Open up a hand warmer and place it in an exterior pocket. Place your iPhone in the interior pocket that matches up. Your iPhone benefits from the heat, but does not directly touch the warmer

• If you have an external battery case for your phone - turn the battery ON when you set out. The battery getting cold is what makes an iPhone die. If it is charging - it stays warm

• Obviously only pull out your phone to shoot, and then tuck it back into your warm pocket asap