Ann Arbor Art Association

Art education: the Ann Arbor Art center Art education programs provide an array of experiential learning opportunities for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Last year, we continued to expand our in-person programming. Class mediums ranged from traditional (painting, drawing, and printmaking) to contemporary (polymer clay and digital drawing). All classes are taught by experienced instructors with mfa, bfa, or Art education degrees. Of note, in 2023, the a2ac revived its artlab program, which was conceived in 2019 and halted due to covid. Through this program, which offers digital arts classes, students gain knowledge and skills that can be applied to a wide range of professions as well as their own creative development. Overall, our education program is serving 33 percent more students than ever before, and still our waitlists have seen a five-fold increase to-date totaling nearly 1,000 students.

Last year, the a2ac revived its award-winning Art in public program (aip), which was put on hold due to the financial constraints created by the covid-19 pandemic. Aip is rooted in the belief that the experience of Art should be accessible and equitable to everyone. In this program, we collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and individuals to bring high-quality Art into public spaces. In 2024, the a2ac will add at least six new artworks to the Ann Arbor community, adding to the 18 installations completed prior to 2020. Aip not only benefits our community, but also generates income for working artists.

Art presentation: our Art presentation program is designed to elevate, challenge, and inspire our community. The selection of artists, curators, and jurors for exhibitions broadens our reach. It provides valuable time and space for the creative community to expand their practice in exciting new ways at every stage of their creative journey. Governed by a talented and creative exhibitions committee, our Art presentation program expanded in 2023 to offer free community programs designed to connect families with Art experiences (playlab) and our new author series, which includes creative writing in our overall Art experiences. Additionally, last year we hosted not only the first performing arts group in a2ac history, but also the first aapia-based group in our gallery. Our Art presentation program resulted in the a2ac financially supported the artistic endeavors of 40 professional artists and 18 authors through artist honorariums.