2021: Updates for April

Intentional Vulnerability
At the start of 2021 I vowed to be more vulnerable. I recently faced serious illness and have been humbled by personal and professional limitations. My closest circle helped me heal with offerings of food, flowers, and eventually laughter. As I slowly begin to recover, I am profoundly grateful for our community’s patience, kindness, and grace. Thank you.

Arts Access
Enacting our mission (and regardless of my absence), our team held an unprecedented outdoor accessible art event and garnered over $8,000 in artwork sales in support of Michigan artist Mark Chatterley. Over 50 participants enjoyed free art kits that fostered creativity in homes across the country through virtual artist talks and workshops. Coming soon, as part of our annual high school exhibition, we’ll highlight over 50 student artworks created by students in our community during the pandemic.

Advocacy Updates
Our arts advocacy efforts continue virtually: locally, statewide, and nationally. In Lansing, co-Chair Stephanie Vasko and I presented to City Council to share updates for the Mayor’s Arts and Culture Commission. The Mayor’s office will also consider the commission’s recommendations on how to make the arts in Lansing more accessible, equitable, diverse, and inclusive. Additionally, Arts Administration intern Ian Hawthorne attended the Cultural Advocacy Network of Michigan’s Advocacy Day. Read more about Ian’s experience and an invitation HERE.

A Constant Struggle
Racism has no place in our community and we condemn recent verbal and physical attacks against Asians and Asian Americans. For hope and guidance, I look toward the excellent work at the W.K.Kellogg Foundation and their noted resources for additional education.

The Arts: A Valid Answer
The arts can be a valid answer for self-expression during the pandemic and a tool for experiencing and understanding our reality. Whether creating or learning in the arts, we can challenge our perceptions, process our emotions, or simply be inspired. Our team is committed to creating opportunities for our community to engage in the arts through safe, accessible arts experiences online, outdoors, and within the Gallery walls through scheduled appointments. I wish for you continued hope and artistic inspiration today!

Our mission: to provide public awareness, education, and enjoyment of the visual arts by promoting the works of Michigan artists.