The vibrant arts scene in Kalamazoo adds to the energy and unique character that we’re known for, and wonderful and vibrant quality of life cherished by locals. The area’s museums, concerts, festivals and public art bring beauty and inspiration to every corner of the city.
Now that our social circles are much smaller, many of you may be seeking ways to stay connected with your favorite local artist or venue. Leave it to these creative folks to find ways to bring art to you while we are at home.
Glass Art Kalamazoo
Hands Off Glass Art Experience
If you are looking to flex your creative muscle from the safety of your home while supporting your favorite local glass art organization, GAK has got your back! You can design your very own glass bowl and our artists will bring your vision to life! This class is designed to provide a hands off glass art experience.
Choose between a blown glass bowl, vase or drinking cup!
The Gilmore
A series of streaming and archived performances – April 22 – May 5
Virtually Gilmore begins on April 22, which would have been the first day of the 2020 Festival. “We chose this date to celebrate the Festival and honor its longstanding tradition,” said Gilmore Director Pierre van der Westhuizen. “We may have missed the 2020 Festival, but music from The Gilmore will continue.”
Each day they will feature an archived performance selected from among The Gilmore’s many years of recorded concerts. Each was chosen as a stand out in terms of artistry and repertoire. All performances will be presented on the Gilmore website and their YouTube channel.
Arts Council
Virtual Art Hop
Due to the social distancing guidelines in place because of COVID-19, May Art Hop will be hosted virtually on Friday, May 5, from 5-8 p.m. Artists will be posting their art – whether dance, theatre, music, painting, ceramics, photography, or more — to the Arts Council’s Facebook page from 4:30 – 7:30 pm.
The Arts Council has a digital gallery of public art and sculptures for you to virtually discover around Kalamazoo County!
Kalamazoo Book Arts Center
The Illustrated Accordion exhibition focuses on books created in the accordion form. The structure of an accordion book is simple: a long piece of paper is folded into pages that can be read like a book or spread open and displayed like a banner. Featuring works of book artists from all over the world, the books in this exhibit take this book form to a new level. Every book that has been entered in previous Illustrated Accordion exhibits are available to view through their website.
Kalamazoo State Theatre
Virtual Prom
The Kalamazoo State Theatre is hosting a Virtual Prom! Participate in Virtual Prom with the State Theatre via Facebook Live on April 25th from 8:00-9:30 PM!
Dress up, take pictures, connect with friends, make song and shout-out requests, and of course, dance along! Make sure to share your pictures with them in the livestream and tag three friends to join you!
Virtual Bingo
Colors and Cocktails
DIY Art Kits available
Kalamazoo Ballroom Academy
They will be hosting a Facebook live class for technique at 6:30pm today. Class will be from 6:30pm -7:15pm Thursday April 16th. This is the time to try out one of their most popular studio classes for free.
Wellspring Virtual Dance Academy
Wellspring Dance Academy, led by the professional company members of Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers, is the best of modern and contemporary dance education in Southwest Michigan.
They’re moving dance classes from the theatre to your living room! Registration is open for their Virtual Dance Academy for everyone, not just current students! You can purchase access to their distance learning resources for the whole family today! Be sure to select the “Monthly Online Class Pass” class.
KIA
Fun At Home Art Projects
Earth Day Rock Project
Paper Bouquet
Weekly Tai Chi Sessions