Who we are

Craft & Creative Development

At its core, CAC is committed to craftsmanship and artistic evolution. The residency offers artists a dedicated space to refine their creative voice, experiment with new techniques, and produce cohesive bodies of work. By fostering an environment of expansive artistic exploration, CAC helps artists push creative boundaries toward market readiness while maintaining a strong connection to their cultural and professional aspirations.

Cultural Exchange

CAC fosters a vibrant artistic dialogue by offering platforms for critique, collaboration, and exposure to emerging trends and audiences. By partnering with galleries, curators, and arts professionals, CAC strengthens the regional arts ecosystem, creating new opportunities for artists to exhibit their work and grow their networks. The residency acts as a hub for creative exchange, where diverse perspectives and innovative ideas flourish, enriching artistic practices and deepening cultural appreciation. Through an ongoing dialogue with the public, CAC ensures that art remains an accessible and integral part of the community.

Community Engagement

CAC unites professional visual artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, strengthening the artistic community across the Treasure Valley, Greater Northwest, Intermountain region, and beyond. Through open studio visits, gallery exhibitions, workshops, and public forums, the residency fosters deep connections between artists and the broader community. These engagements provide essential visibility for resident artists, positioning them for greater career opportunities while enriching the cultural fabric of Caldwell.



Organizational Values

Expansiveness: We champion boundless creativity, inspiring artists to explore, innovate, and push the frontiers of their imagination.

Beauty: We celebrate artistic excellence, fostering an environment where aesthetics and creativity thrive.

Craft: We uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship, supporting meticulous attention to detail and mastery in artistic practices.

Culture: We cultivate a rich and diverse artistic landscape, promoting meaningful exchanges that strengthen and unify the creative community.

Sustainability: We advocate for responsible artistry, encouraging the use of natural, recycled (found objects, and environmentally sound materials and processes to ensure a sustainable future for the arts.

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Meet the Team

  • Brittan Aebischer

    RESIDENCY DIRECTOR

    Brittan is a visual artist, arts advocate, and community leader with a Master’s degree in Art Education. He is the founder of the International Shenzhen Artist Forum, an artist collective based in China, and co-curator  of the Captivating International Art Auction. Since establishing his studio practice in 2013, Brittan has exhibited and sold work both nationally and internationally.

    With over 12 years of experience living and working in China, including in the greater Hong Kong region, Brittan brings a global perspective to his work. His professional background spans marketing, business development, design, and international education. He now serves as the Marketing & Strategic Partnership Manager for Destination Caldwell, promoting the culture, agriculture, and community of Southwest Idaho’s Snake River Valley.

    Brittan values integrity, creativity, and collaboration, and is passionate about using art to build community and inspire connection.

  • Sandy Battles

    FOUNDER AND CHIEF BENEFACTOR

    Born and raised in the rugged mountains of Montana, Sandy Battles embodies the spirit of the American West. From running barrels in rodeos to becoming the first woman to run wild horses for the Bureau of Land Management in Owyhee County, Sandy’s life has been defined by trailblazing courage and fierce independence.

    With a broad professional background—including work in special education, ownership of several businesses, and her current role as owner of Caldwell Transport Services—Sandy brings a wealth of experience and vision to business management.

    Now, as founder and chief patron of the Caldwell Artist Collective, she is channeling her lifelong passion for joy, creativity, and community building into a space that celebrates and supports the creative spirit.

  • Naomi Schiesel

    OPERATIONS MANAGER

    Naomi is an operations and design professional with over 15 years of experience in architecture, interior design, and project management. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Portland and began her career working with architects and designers in Portland’s creative scene.

    Since relocating to Idaho with her family in 2021, Naomi has applied her skills in marketing, communications, and real estate—managing social media, designing branded materials, coordinating events, and supporting operations for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

    As Operations Manager for the Caldwell Artist Collective, she oversees day-to-day operations, artist programming, and community engagement. Naomi brings a thoughtful, design-forward approach to everything she does, grounded in a deep appreciation for aesthetics, functionality, and community building.

Make It

Contact us

Interested in collaborating or learning more about the Caldwell Art Collective? Share your details, and we'll get in touch with you shortly. We look forward to connecting and exploring the creative possibilities ahead.

hello@caldwellartcollective.com
(208) 421-2167