Ann Markusen, who has served as a professor and director of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota, will be the keynote speaker at a regional arts conference to be held at the Owatonna Arts Center on Saturday. The focus: Building sustainable art communities.

Markusen, a specialist in the relationship between culture and economic development, will speak about “Accessing Creativity: How the Arts can help Build a Stronger Community.”

Other speakers include Bruno Borsari from Winona State University, who will discuss “The Arts as Living Landscapes, an Agronomist’s View,” Catherine Egenberger, who will speak about “Connecting the Arts and Schools,” and Hal Cropp, who will share his views on “Creating Sustainable Arts Organizations: The Lanesboro Model.” Panel discussions will address perceptions of “Good Art, Bad Art” and “How the Arts Can Help Sustain Communities.”

Following the presentations by featured speakers, small group sessions will focus on topics of interest, including the latest in grant writing tips.  The conference, sponsored by the Southeast Minnesota Arts Council in cooperation with the Owatonna Arts Center, is open to artists, members of arts organizations, and the general public.

Registration forms are available at various art centers throughout the region or by contacting SEMAC at 507-281-4848 or staff@semac.org. The public may also register the day of the event at the Owatonna Arts Center at 435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna. Admission is $20. The conference is from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Lunch and dinner are included.