COAST ON BY WITH THE MIDWEST COAST. A new arts organization Midwest Coast aims to amplify underrepresented local artists and connect them with critical local resources. (Photo by Gabbie Henn)

Some up-and-coming local artists will get a boost from a couple who wants to bring their creative talents to the forefront of our lil’ community. Midwest Coast is a new endeavor from locals Jared Choate and his wife, Kelly, who bring their experience working in film, media, and event planning on the West Coast back to the Midwest to start their own organization, which aims to advocate for the arts, help give platforms to diverse and community-focused groups, and amplify the voices of people whose work they admire.

Jared and Kelly Choate

The org’s first show, which took place on July 23 at Odd Humyns in Eau Claire, featured primarily LGBTQ+ bands and performers, and was Odd Humyn’s first show they have ever sold out. That’s just the beginning for Midwest Coast, as the dynamic duo hopes to help connect local artists with area resources and allies who might be able to help assist them on their creative journey.

“We have a deep passion for fun and experimental performance and avant-garde art,” Choate said. “We would love to see if there’s any quietly hungry audiences in Eau Claire for things like pop-up, stand-up comedy events, midnight movies or outdoor movie screenings, or any new ways to engage the community while also supporting the organizations and artists doing so much to share their shine with us.”

Check out Midwest Coast on Instagram @Midwest__Coast or email YourFriends@MidwestCoast.org.