Download photo of Wesley Thompson.
Download photo of Ty Kotlowski.
GRANITE FALLS, Minn. — Pioneer PBS’s Postcards program will feature stories of Montevideo’s toy tractor maker Wes Thompson, Granite Falls painter Ty Kotlowski and New London-Spicer’s singer/songwriter Ava Hanson on the season 12 Postcards premiere Thursday, January 28 at 7 p.m. The episode will be rebroadcast on Sunday, January 31 at 7:30 p.m. and on Monday, February 1 at 1:30 p.m. The stories will also be available for online viewing through the station’s website: www.pioneer.org/postcards.
82-year-old retired farmer Wesley Thompson of Montevideo has an extensive collection of toy tractors, combines and other farm machinery. For more than 20 years, Thompson has modified store-bought kits and fabricated his own pieces to build detailed models. His collection features a variety of unique models including a replica of the first combine he ever owned. “I don't want it soldered or welded or glued because the real equipment is made to take apart when you have a breakdown, so I make all of my stuff to make it look like it can be taken apart,” Thompson said.
Artist Ty Kotlowski grew up in Granite Falls, enlisted in the Air Force, moved around the state and country and then returned to his hometown. The abstract artwork he creates is based on his current “emotional vibe” and colors that “come into his head” when listening to a particular song. He shares his art on Facebook and asks people to share what they see in the work. “A part that I have enjoyed along this journey is hearing everyone else's different interpretations,” Kotlowski said.
New London-Spicer’s Ava Hanson’s passion and talent for music has led her to perform all around her community and beyond, beginning with a performance at her middle school soon after starting guitar lessons at 9 years old. She quickly branched out into performing at local wineries, restaurants and events before beginning to write songs at the encouragement of her teacher. Her first song, “Summer in Minnesota” won local contests and sent her to the Grandstand of the Minnesota State Fair to perform in front of 8,000 people. Now a high school senior, Hanson knows that wherever life takes her, music will follow. “Music has really helped me grow in a good way,“ Hanson said.
About Postcards
The award-winning Postcards is produced by Dana Conroy with videography and editing by Kristofor Gieske and Ben Dempcy. The program is made possible by contributions from the voters of Minnesota through a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Production sponsors for the program include Shalom Hill Farm, Explore Alexandria Tourism and the Lake Region Arts Council.
About Pioneer PBS
Established in 1966, Pioneer PBS is an award-winning, viewer-supported television station dedicated to sharing local stories of the region with the world. For more information visit: www.pioneer.org.
