Arts Council Workshops, Classes, and Special Events

Icon History and Art a talk with Sister Chris

Wednesday May 8th at 7:00pm join us at the Mackinaw City Woman’s Club for an hour talk on “The History and Art of Iconography” from Sister Chris of St. Anthony’s of Padua.

Iconography is the oldest tradition of Christian sacred art. Unlike other approaches to painting, the creation of an icon does not begin in the artist’s imagination. Rather, the iconographer’s first work is to study how the subject has been traditionally depicted in this rich artistic tradition.

Sister Chris an iconographer herself will show the materials required and techniques used in the process of creating an icon. She will also present samples of work at different stages. Sister Chris has been hosting workshops at St. Anthony’s for several years and also attends workshops in the area on this ancient art.

Since the creation of an icon is itself a sacred activity, the iconographer must be a person of prayer, not merely a technician. So to appreciate iconography fully, we must approach it as a liturgical art form whose function is essentially spiritual. We hope you can attend this hour presentation on this fascinating art form.
Icon workshops are available this May at St. Anthony’s of Padua from the May 29th-June 5th for anyone interested. You leave with a finished icon and learn the history, theology and the spirituality of the art process. For those not needing room or board the cost is $350 and for the inclusive price of $650 room and board are included.
For anyone wishing to attend this workshop on Iconography please contact Sister Chris at 231-436-5561.

Fused Glass Pendant Class with Heidi Finley

Join in the unique learning experience of fused glass with artist and instructor Heidi Reichenbach Finley. Heidi is a professional fine artist and art instructor with a BFA from Eastern Michigan University and a MA in Studio Art from the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, IN.

Heidi is experienced in teaching art of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels.
No special clothing or shoes, and no cutting of glass is needed as we will work from precut and scrap pieces.

Each participant will make up to two (2) pendant necklaces that range in size from one inch square to about one and three-quarters. You can make the sailboat or chose size, colors and design of your choice. Either way Heidi will provide clear instructions at each step.

This fun and relaxed class will run close to an hour and a half and will be held at the Mackinaw Woman’s Clubhouse, 310 E. Jamet Mackinaw City on Thursday June 6th at 6pm.

The pendants will need to be fired in Heidi’s kiln and the bails attached. The finished project will be available in a week and arrangements will be made for pick up at the woman’s club or for a fee mailed to your home.

Cost for members $55 and non-members $65. To sign up for this class, please call 231-412-2787.

Weave a tiny tapestry with Jasmine

from “Howl at the Loom”

Students will learn to warp a frame loom, use weaving techniques and how to finish a piece. We will discuss color combos, types of yarn and fiber and how to use them in weaving. All tools and supplies will be provided and students take home their finished tapestries. This is a great workshop for beginner weavers or those interested in new techniques.
Recommended for all adults and children ages 10 and over.

All supplies are provided but optional items that you might choose to bring include scissors, yarn, fiber, bead or accessories of your own to include into your weaving.

This workshop is Saturday June 15th at 11:00am at Mackinaw City Woman’s club 310 E. Jamet Mackinaw City.
Supplies are $15 per participant. Class fee is $30 for members, $45 for non-members and $20 for students.

Class is limited to 12 so sign up early to secure your spot.
Call 231-412-2787 to sign up.

Open Community Drum Circle Event

Experience the Power of Rhythm: Join Our Open Community Drum Circle

Are you feeling stressed and in need of a break from the daily grind? Looking to connect with others and explore the magic of music in a welcoming environment? Look no further!

When: Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Where: Mackinaw City Heritage Village Facilitator: Lynn Turner, percussionist from Northern Michigan Drum Village
No matter your experience level, whether you’re a seasoned drummer or completely new to the world of rhythm, this drum circle welcomes you with open arms. Guided by Lynn Turner, whose passion for percussion has led her on an incredible journey, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant beats of African drums and more.
What to Expect:
Discover the joy of rhythm in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Percussive instruments will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you have them.
No prior experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and an open heart.
Immerse yourself in the collective energy as we create our own unique group rhythm.
Witness the transformative power of music as stress melts away and connections are forged.

Donation: While there is no fee for this evening of rhythmic exploration, any donations to support Northern Michigan Drum are greatly appreciated. Contributions can be made online or in person with Lynn. nmidrum.org
Join us for an unforgettable evening of drumming, connection, and community. Whether you’re tapping along or fully immersed in the groove, you’re sure to leave feeling uplifted and inspired.
For more information or to contact the Mackinaw City Area Arts Council call 231-420-2787
Let’s drum together and let the rhythm guide us to new experiences and connections!

Twelfth Night with Starling Shakespeare Company

Starling Shakespeare Company will again be on the stage performing “Twelfth Night” in the hamlet of Mackinaw City.

Mark your calendars!!

Twelfth Night is a romantic comedy by William Shakespeare that is believed to have been written

around 1601–1602 as a Twelfth Night entertainment for the close of the Christmas season. The play revolves around the

twins Viola and Sebastian, who are separated in a shipwreck. The creativity and talents of the Starling Shakespeare

Company have adapted and transformed all their theatrical elements into a quintessential subset that allows them to

magically transform any outdoor space into a theater while armed only with a cast of five flexible actors and a minimal, yet

effective, set of props, costumes, and scenery. The result is a rapidly changing, multi-faceted, captivating piece of stagecraft

suitable for all ages.

Please join us August 8th, 2023 at 6:00pm at Conkling

Heritage Park. (rain date August 15th if need be)

Seating is on the lawn so bring a blanket or folding chair and

settle in for an enchanting, imaginative performance of Twelfth Night. Admission is Free!!

Classy Clematis

Watercolor Instruction with Megan Swoyer

Megan will be returning to Mackinaw City by popular demand to demonstrate her watercolor talents with a beautiful, bold Clematis image.

We’ll mix up beautiful colors of purples and blues — and use wet-into-wet techniques — to create this flowy watercolor.

Supplies are included! All you have to do is show up and bring your adventurous spirit as we delve into the world of relaxing watercolor painting. You may bring your own pallet or paper if desired.

Meet us August 29th for a 6:00pm class at the Mackinaw City Woman’s Clubhouse on 310 E. Jamet st. in Mackinaw City. Class is limited to 20 students. Cost is $40 for members and $55 for non-members. To sign up call 231-412-2787.

Open Art/Craft Sessions with Seniors

Mackinaw City Area Arts Council is partnering with Wawatam Senior Center to offer Open Art Sessions on Tuesdays from 3:00 to 4:30pm at the Lion’s club building at 205 Cedar St. Mackinaw City. The Lion’s club is home to the senior center and anyone is welcome to attend, you do not have to be a member.

The arts council will have a dedicated craft coach each week with supplies and a project to complete. Senior center members will have full access to paint and craft supplies provided by the center, free of charge. For non members the arts council will provide an art kit for a small fee if you wish to participate in the project or bring your art supplies or any craft item you are working on and join us. Bring a friend or make new ones. You might even want to stay for dinner.

KINDNESS ROCK GARDEN

Mackinaw City Area Arts Council “The Kindness Rock project ” is now live at Maritime Park down on the waterfront at Huron avenue and Depeyster st. We hope you bring your painted rocks and share your creativity with our community. Please take a picture of your rock(s) and share with us when placing in the garden. You can view ideas for painting and materials to use at the link below for… The Kindness Rocks Project. This activity provides great social distancing with hours of creativity and is a great pursuit for both children and adults.

https://www.thekindnessrocksproject.com/

In partnership with Mackinaw City Historical Society and Heritage Village we present Art in the Woods Trail. If you are interested in sharing your creativity with the community please contact MaryAnn Moore. Information listed below.