A2AC Murals: Family Friendly Stroll Tour
2025-08-17 11:00 - 11:45 (America/Detroit)
✨ NUMBER OF ATTENDEES: 5-20 people

⏰ DURATION: 45 minutes

🎟️ PRICE: $10 per person, free for attendees 5 years old and under

REGISTER HERE for the Stroll Tour

ABOUT THE STROLL TOUR:

Join us for our A2AC Murals tour, where we will guide you through downtown Ann Arbor to see and speak about many of the vibrant artworks in the urban landscape! The tour will include an overview of the A2AC Art in Public Program and lead attendees to several projects within a ¼ mile of each other. Along the way, participants will:

Learn about the artists behind the work and their creative processes

Hear the stories and context behind each mural’s design and installation

Gain insight into the A2AC Art in Public Program and how it brings art to life in Ann Arbor

The short route is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great outing for families, friends, and anyone curious about art in unexpected places. Our guide tailors the conversation to be engaging for adults while keeping younger participants interested with fun, accessible storytelling. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a longtime resident, or a first-time visitor, this tour is a great way to experience the city through a new lens! After the tour, we invite you to continue exploring Ann Arbor’s local shops, restaurants, museums, and more.

Note: Although the tour will include and highlight several projects, we are unable to cover all Art in Public Projects due to location and time constraints. We are happy to answer any questions about the projects not seen on the tour at the end.

DISTANCE AND ACCESSIBILITY:

This event is open to all ages and is family-friendly. The short route is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, avoiding steep hills. All featured projects are located within ¼ mile of each other on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor.

Please note: portions of the route include busy city sidewalks and intersections, so caution and awareness are encouraged throughout the tour.

MEETING LOCATION:

The Ann Arbor Art Center

117 W. Liberty Street

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Please meet 10 minutes before the tour starts on the first floor of the Ann Arbor Art Center in the Shop Gallery with your ticket information via phone or printout.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS:

Tours will continue as scheduled through light rain. Please bring an umbrella and wear appropriate clothing. If heavy rain or severe weather is forecasted, we will notify registrants 24 hours ahead. In the case of heavy rain or severe weather, A2AC will provide a full refund or give you a credit to use on a future mural tour.

ABOUT A2AC ART IN PUBLIC:

Launched in 2018, the A2AC Art in Public initiative has supported and assisted in the creation of over 30 murals and four alleyway installations throughout downtown Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The program connects building and business owners with local, regional, and national artists to transform blank walls and open spaces into vibrant public artworks. These small and large-scale pieces not only enhance the urban landscape but also offer residents and visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary art as part of everyday life in Ann Arbor and the broader Washtenaw County region.

REGISTER HERE for the Stroll Tour

LEARN MORE ABOUT A2AC MURALS

Fall Art Classes Open for ALL
2025-08-15 07:00 - 2025-10-11 08:00
Fall into art with the help of the A2AC! A brand-new session of Art Classes is coming your way!

Open for A2AC Members on Wednesday, August 13, at 7am.

Open for ALL on Friday, August 15, at 7am.

SHOW ME HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

SEE ALL UPCOMING CLASSES

A2AC Murals: Social District Wall Crawl
2025-08-14 17:30 - 18:30
✨ NUMBER OF ATTENDEES: 5-20 people

⏰ DURATION: 1 hour

🎟️ PRICE: $10 per person, Attendees must be 21 + years old

REGISTER HERE for the Wall Crawl Tour

WALL CRAWL:

Join us for our A2AC Murals tour, where we will guide you through downtown Ann Arbor to see and speak about many of the vibrant artworks in the urban landscape! We’ll begin in front of the Ann Arbor Art Center where attendees can optionally purchase a beverage from our neighbor, The Grotto, via a QR code to enjoy as we walk. From there, we’ll travel within the downtown social district boundaries to see a series of projects all located within a ¼ mile of each other. Along the way, participants will:

Learn about the artists behind the work and their creative processes

Hear the stories and context behind each mural’s design and installation

Gain insight into the A2AC Art in Public Program and how it brings art to life in Ann Arbor

This tour is a great way to experience the city through a new lens—whether you're an art enthusiast, a longtime resident, or a first-time visitor. After the tour, we invite you to continue exploring Ann Arbor’s local shops, restaurants, museums, and more!

Note: Although the tour will include and highlight several projects, we are unable to cover all Art in Public Projects due to location and time constraints. We are happy to answer any questions about the projects not seen on the tour at the end.

DISTANCE AND ACCESSIBILITY:

This tour is open to adults 21 and older. The tour’s project sites are located within a compact ¼ mile radius on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor. Please note: portions of the route include busy city sidewalks and intersections, so caution and awareness are encouraged throughout the tour.

The route is generally wheelchair accessible, though it does include one steep downhill section that may be challenging for some participants. For detailed information or to find tours best suited for accessibility, please visit our website or email artinpublic@annarborartcenter.org.

MEETING LOCATION + BEVERAGE SERVICE INFORMATION:

The Ann Arbor Art Center

117 W. Liberty Street

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Please meet 10-15 minutes before the tour starts at the designated table outside the Art Center with your ticket information via phone or a printout. During this time, beverage service will be available from our neighbor, The Grotto, by using a convenient QR code at the table.

BEVERAGE SERVICE FROM THE GROTTO:

Attendees are permitted, if they so choose, to place an order at their own expense for up to 1 alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink per individual to enjoy during the walk. The beverage will be poured into the designated Social District cup.

To avoid disruption to the tour, beverage orders must be placed BEFORE the tour begins promptly at 5pm. The tour will not stop at any other bar for additional purchases.

Attendees may only consume a beverage that has been procured in this manner and may not bring in outside beverages to the tour. The A2AC reserves the right to remove attendees that violate these policies or engage in disruptive behavior.

ALL participants must be 21 or older and show a Driver's License, State ID, or military ID upon arrival.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS:

Tours will continue as scheduled through light rain. Please bring an umbrella and wear appropriate clothing. If heavy rain or severe weather is forecasted, we will notify registrants 24 hours ahead. In the case of heavy rain or severe weather, A2AC will provide a full refund or give attendees a credit to use on a future mural tour.

Let’s raise a glass to good vibes, great drinks, and a city that knows how to throw a summer party. Cheers!

ABOUT A2AC ART IN PUBLIC:

Launched in 2018, the A2AC Art in Public initiative has supported and assisted in the creation of over 30 murals and four alleyway installations throughout downtown Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The program connects building and business owners with local, regional, and national artists to transform blank walls and open spaces into vibrant public artworks. These small and large-scale pieces not only enhance the urban landscape but also offer residents and visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary art as part of everyday life in Ann Arbor and the broader Washtenaw County region.

REGISTER HERE for the Wall Crawl Tour

LEARN MORE ABOUT A2AC MURALS

Fall Art Classes Open for Members
2025-08-13 07:00 - 2025-08-15 06:59

Happy Little Drop-In: Live Painting in the Style of Bob Ross
2025-08-09 12:00 - 15:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for an afternoon of happy little trees and fluffy clouds!

Certified Bob Ross instructor Ted Simpson will be at the Ann Arbor Art Center on Saturday, August 9th, demonstrating the art of putting dreams onto canvas! Come by the Main Gallery between 12:00pm-3:00pm to watch Simpson recreate a Bob Ross original before your eyes, talk about his process, and learn about upcoming workshops where you, too, can learn how to paint like Bob Ross. Simpson will also have a large selection of his work on sale, and 50% of any sales made will benefit the A2AC.

Spend an afternoon exploring our galleries, shopping our artisan store, and learning about the Bob Ross style of painting.

FROM THE ARTIST

"I’m Ted Simpson, a Certified Bob Ross Instructor. I want to continue the legacy of The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross, to show the current and future generations how to paint. My aim is to cultivate a lasting passion for art, much like the one that Bob ignited within me. Since 2017 I have travelled the country sharing his love of nature with young and old alike.

"My journey in art spans many years, during which I’ve delved into various forms of artistic expression. Back in the ’80s and ’90s, I found inspiration in the teachings of Bob Ross and his mentor, Bill Alexander, on PBS. Their approach revealed that artistic prowess akin to Michelangelo or Leonardo Da Vinci isn’t a prerequisite for creating captivating art. With a love for nature and a dash of practice, anyone can craft beautiful paintings without the need for weeks or months of labor. The beauty of the wet-on-wet technique lies in its efficiency, enabling the creation of compelling artwork in a short span of time.

"Since 2017, I’ve been teaching class in venues around Michigan. Whether its a 1 on 1 private class, birthday party, or one of my many regular public groups at senior centers of with the local parks and rec department, I teach new and experienced artists alike.

"I also teach classes across the country, as part of the Bob Ross, Inc travelling instructor team. From Baltimore to San Francisco, from Florida to San Diego, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with thousands of eager students, passing on the same inspiration that Bob Ross kindled in me. A special highlight for me is returning to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where I underwent my certification training, to teach at the esteemed Bob Ross Gallery and Workshop."

LEARN MORE ABOUT TED

Resist and Reveal Opening Reception
2025-08-01 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for the Opening Reception of Melissa Wilson's Resist and Reveal exhibition in the Spotlight Gallery.

Resist and Reveal explores the resilience of place through copper etchings and cyanotype prints that honor the beauty of aging architecture and the histories they hold. Rooted in her connection to Detroit—where her practice began in the Cass Corridor—Melissa's work draws on saltwater etching with copper, materials tied to the city's industrial past and cycles of decay and renewal. Her tactile, analog processes resist erasure in a digital age, reflecting a reverence for what endures. Expanding beyond Detroit, this exhibition includes structures from Ann Arbor and surrounding areas, capturing spaces rich with personal and collective memory. Through her art, Melissa offers quiet tributes to perseverance, inviting viewers to reflect on what remains and deserves to.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Block Printing Drop-In with Chelsea O'Hayer
2025-07-26 17:00 - 19:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for a fun evening with A2AC instructor and local artist Chelsea O'Hayer at our Block Printing Drop-In in the A2AC Gallery.

This summer, we are highlighting what makes Tree Town so special. Chelsea will be making unique block prints of Ann Arbor landmarks that you can then make into your own works of art. Print on paper, totes or make a set of one-of-a-kind notecards.

Prices

$15 totes, $5 5x7 paper, or 3 for $10 notecards.

Summer Open Studio: Figure Drawing (Clothed)
2025-07-26 13:00 - 16:00, 2025-06-28 13:00 - 16:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for a figure drawing open studio, where artists of all levels can explore their creativity through live figure drawing. Whether you're looking to hone your skills or simply enjoy a relaxing session of creative expression, our drop-in events offer the perfect opportunity to practice in a supportive environment.

Figure drawing drop-ins will take place on the fourth Tuesday and fourth Saturday of every month. Each session is three hours long and operates on a first come, first served basis; there is no prior registration available. You can pay the studio fee at the front desk. The studio can accommodate up to 15 students at a time. We will not admit students after 7:00pm on Tuesdays and 3:00pm on Saturdays.

Tuesday Sessions (June 24, July 22, August 26 from 5–8pm):

Model: Nude figure

Age Requirement: 18+

Supplies: Students must bring their own drawing materials. Easels, drawing horses, and newsprint will be provided by A2AC.

Saturday Sessions (June 28, July 26, August 23 from 1pm–4pm):

Model: Clothed figure

Age Requirement: 16+

Supplies: Students must bring their own drawing materials. Easels, drawing horses, and newsprint will be provided by A2AC.

Please note, there will be no formal instruction—this is a time for you to focus on your craft and enjoy the company of fellow artists. A skilled monitor will work with models to adjust poses throughout the session.

Price: $10 for members and $15 for non-members

Location: Studio 301 & 302

Call for Art: Holiday Ornaments
2025-07-23 08:00 - 2025-09-06 23:00
The A2AC Shop is excited to announce our Holiday Ornament Open Call! We’re seeking original, handcrafted ornaments from artists to feature in our annual A2AC Holiday Shop.

Imaginative ornaments in all styles and mediums are welcome. Whether you work in ceramics, textiles, wood, paper, or something unique, we want you to apply!

What We’re Looking For:

Handcrafted ornaments in all styles and mediums (ceramic, wood, textile, glass, paper, mixed media, etc.)

Festive, winter-themed, or decorative pieces that can hang on a tree or display

Affordable price points: under $40 is ideal

Deadline to Submit: September 6th, 2025

Artists Selection: September 15th, 2025

Artwork Drop-off: October 13th-17th, 2025

Celebrate the season with us—share your art, spread some cheer, and help make this year’s holidays more artistic!

Questions? Contact Steph McDonald at: smcdonald@annarborartcenter.org or (734)926-4128

LEARN MORE AND APPLY

SEE ALL ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES

Summer Open Studio: Figure Drawing (Nude)
2025-07-22 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-24 17:00 - 20:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States

A2AC PlayLab - A2 Symphony Orchestra's Instrument Petting Zoo (2 Sessions)
2025-07-12 10:00 - 11:30 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join a band for a day at A2AC PlayLab - A2 Symphony Orchestra's Instrument Petting Zoo!

The A2 Symphony's Orchestra Petting Zoo gives kids an opportunity to get up close and personal with the instruments they see professionally played on stage. This fun and interactive session encourages curiosity, confidence, and collaboration as kids and caregivers alike explore a multitude of instruments and musical orchestration.

This is a free event, but as space is limited, we ask that you register to reserve your spot. Once spots are filled, you will be put on a waitlist. You will be automatically notified if a space becomes available. Please register for the age group appropriate for your child. One registration will cover both the caregiver and the child.

There will be two sessions:

10:00am-10:45am | Caregivers and Children Ages 3-610:45am-11:30am | Caregivers and Children Ages 7-12

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

REGISTER FOR THE 10-10:45AM PLAYLAB FOR AGES 3-6

REGISTER FOR THE 10-10:45AM PLAYLAB FOR AGES 7-12

ABOUT A2SO'S INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO

Call for Art: Fire Station #4
2025-07-01 08:00 - 2025-08-10 21:59
🚨 NEW CALL FOR ART 🚨

The A2AC Art in Public Program and the Ann Arbor Fire Department invite artists and artist teams across the U.S. for submissions for site-specific public artwork at the city's new Net-zero Fire Station #4 on S. Huron Parkway in Ann Arbor, MI.

The selected artist/team will create a powerful, visually engaging piece that speaks to fire service, safety, and community. Two potential locations for public art are the lawn area or the upper window bays. Artists may propose work for either or both locations; however, only one artist or artist team will be selected for the commission.

Various artistic approaches, including sculpture, stained glass, and other installation-based media, are encouraged.

LEARN MORE & APPLY

Make-Up Session: A2AC PlayLab: Exploring Yoga with Marly Spieser-Scheider - Ages 3-6
2025-06-29 10:00 - 11:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
This is a make-up session for the June 1 PlayLab:

In this workshop, caregivers and kids aged 3-6 will learn foundational principles of the yoga philosophy and focus on the ideas of awareness and non-harming. We will explore yoga postures and talk about what it means to move with intention. We will also consider how the body and mind communicate with one another and learn how our body and breath can be tools to engage with and sooth our mind and emotions. These workshops will encourage curiosity, experimentation, and fun while also encouraging self-awareness, compassion, and confidence.

This is a free event, but as space is limited, we ask that you register to reserve your spot. Once spots are filled, you will be put on a waitlist. You will be automatically notified if a space becomes available. Please register for the age group appropriate for your child. One registration will cover both the caregiver and the child.

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

REGISTER TODAY

LEARN MORE ABOUT PLAYLAB

A2AC Murals: Social District Wall Crawl
2025-06-28 17:00
✨ NUMBER OF ATTENDEES: 5-20 people

⏰ DURATION: 1 hour

🎟️ PRICE: $10 per person, Attendees must be 21 + years old

WALL CRAWL:

Join us for our A2AC Murals tour, where we will guide you through downtown Ann Arbor to see and speak about many of the vibrant artworks in the urban landscape! We’ll begin in front of the Ann Arbor Art Center where attendees can optionally purchase a beverage from our neighbor, The Grotto, via a QR code to enjoy as we walk. From there, we’ll travel within the downtown social district boundaries to see a series of projects all located within a ¼ mile of each other. Along the way, participants will:

Learn about the artists behind the work and their creative processes

Hear the stories and context behind each mural’s design and installation

Gain insight into the A2AC Art in Public Program and how it brings art to life in Ann Arbor

This tour is a great way to experience the city through a new lens—whether you're an art enthusiast, a longtime resident, or a first-time visitor. After the tour, we invite you to continue exploring Ann Arbor’s local shops, restaurants, museums, and more!

Note: Although the tour will include and highlight several projects, we are unable to cover all Art in Public Projects due to location and time constraints. We are happy to answer any questions about the projects not seen on the tour at the end.

DISTANCE AND ACCESSIBILITY:

This tour is open to adults 21 and older. The tour’s project sites are located within a compact ¼ mile radius on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor. Please note: portions of the route include busy city sidewalks and intersections, so caution and awareness are encouraged throughout the tour.

The route is generally wheelchair accessible, though it does include one steep downhill section that may be challenging for some participants. For detailed information or to find tours best suited for accessibility, please visit our website or email artinpublic@annarborartcenter.org.

MEETING LOCATION + BEVERAGE SERVICE INFORMATION:

The Ann Arbor Art Center

117 W. Liberty Street

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Please meet 10-15 minutes before the tour starts at the designated table outside the Art Center with your ticket information via phone or a printout. During this time, beverage service will be available from our neighbor, The Grotto, by using a convenient QR code at the table.

BEVERAGE SERVICE FROM THE GROTTO:

Attendees are permitted, if they so choose, to place an order at their own expense for up to 1 alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink per individual to enjoy during the walk. The beverage will be poured into the designated Social District cup.

To avoid disruption to the tour, beverage orders must be placed BEFORE the tour begins promptly at 5pm. The tour will not stop at any other bar for additional purchases.

Attendees may only consume a beverage that has been procured in this manner and may not bring in outside beverages to the tour. The A2AC reserves the right to remove attendees that violate these policies or engage in disruptive behavior.

ALL participants must be 21 or older and show a Driver's License, State ID, or military ID upon arrival.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS:

Tours will continue as scheduled through light rain. Please bring an umbrella and wear appropriate clothing. If heavy rain or severe weather is forecasted, we will notify registrants 24 hours ahead. In the case of heavy rain or severe weather, A2AC will provide a full refund or give attendees a credit to use on a future mural tour. Mid to late summer 2025 dates will be posted at the beginning of July.

Let’s raise a glass to good vibes, great drinks, and a city that knows how to throw a summer party. Cheers!

ABOUT A2AC ART IN PUBLIC:

Launched in 2018, the A2AC Art in Public initiative has supported and assisted in the creation of over 30 murals and four alleyway installations throughout downtown Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The program connects building and business owners with local, regional, and national artists to transform blank walls and open spaces into vibrant public artworks. These small and large-scale pieces not only enhance the urban landscape but also offer residents and visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary art as part of everyday life in Ann Arbor and the broader Washtenaw County region.

REGISTER HERE for the Wall Crawl Tour

LEARN MORE ABOUT A2AC MURALS

Beretta Shells Make Music Ann Arbor Performance
2025-06-21 19:00 - 20:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for a very special performance in the A2AC Gallery from hip-hop artist and multi-genre DJ Beretta Shells, as part of the AADL's Make Music Ann Arbor, a free city-wide celebration of music in alternative spaces.

This is a free event, but tips for the performer are welcomed.

ABOUT BERETTA SHELLS

Beretta Shells is a Michigan-based contemporary hip-hop artist and multi-genre DJ known for his distinctive sound and engrossing lyrics. His music blends classic hip-hop with experimental and modern textures, featuring hard-hitting beats, catchy hooks, and vivid storytelling. As a DJ, he seamlessly bridges genres to energize diverse crowds, reflecting his deep knowledge and respect for music across cultures. Beretta’s performances and tracks convey unfiltered sincerity, often touching on personal experience, social commentary, and the realities of American life. Notable works include the album InTheDazeOf: AudioDepiction (2021) and singles like Do 4 Love (2023) and Exit 200 (Flowas) (2021). With a unique style and an uncompromising approach to his craft, Beretta Shells continues to shape the sound of Michigan and beyond.

BERETTA SHELLS ON INSTAGRAM

BERETTA SHELLS ON SOUNDCLOUD

Presented by

EXPLORE ALL MAKE MUSIC ANN ARBOR PERFORMANCES

Artini 2025
2025-06-21 06:00 - 22:00
🎶🍸 Artini is back—and it’s hitting all the right notes! 🍸🎶

Join us on Saturday, June 21 for Artini, Downtown Ann Arbor’s favorite summer cocktail crawl and fundraiser! This year, we’re mixing things up with a melodic twist to celebrate alongside AADL’s Make Music Ann Arbor—making for one unforgettable night of sips and sounds.

Witness Ann Arbor’s top bars and restaurants shaking and stirring their take on the most musical martini. Wander the closed-off, beverage-friendly, sun-soaked streets of Main Street and beyond, enjoy live performances, and cast your vote for your favorite cocktail creation!

✨ Early access tickets drop Wednesday, April 23 for past attendees and members.

🎟️ General tickets available Friday, April 25.

Let’s raise a glass to good vibes, great drinks, and a city that knows how to throw a summer party. Cheers!

LEARN MORE ABOUT ARTINI 2025

Presented by

With support from

With support from

A2AC Murals: Family Friendly Stroll Tour
2025-06-14 11:00
✨ NUMBER OF ATTENDEES: 5-20 people

⏰ DURATION: 45 minutes

🎟️ PRICE: $10 per person, free for attendees 5 years old and under

REGISTER HERE for the Stroll Tour

ABOUT THE STROLL TOUR:

Join us for our A2AC Murals tour, where we will guide you through downtown Ann Arbor to see and speak about many of the vibrant artworks in the urban landscape! The tour will include an overview of the A2AC Art in Public Program and lead attendees to several projects within a ¼ mile of each other. Along the way, participants will:

Learn about the artists behind the work and their creative processes

Hear the stories and context behind each mural’s design and installation

Gain insight into the A2AC Art in Public Program and how it brings art to life in Ann Arbor

The short route is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great outing for families, friends, and anyone curious about art in unexpected places. Our guide tailors the conversation to be engaging for adults while keeping younger participants interested with fun, accessible storytelling. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a longtime resident, or a first-time visitor, this tour is a great way to experience the city through a new lens! After the tour, we invite you to continue exploring Ann Arbor’s local shops, restaurants, museums, and more.

Note: Although the tour will include and highlight several projects, we are unable to cover all Art in Public Projects due to location and time constraints. We are happy to answer any questions about the projects not seen on the tour at the end.

DISTANCE AND ACCESSIBILITY:

This event is open to all ages and is family-friendly. The short route is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, avoiding steep hills. All featured projects are located within ¼ mile of each other on the west side of downtown Ann Arbor.

Please note: portions of the route include busy city sidewalks and intersections, so caution and awareness are encouraged throughout the tour.

MEETING LOCATION:

The Ann Arbor Art Center

117 W. Liberty Street

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Please meet 10 minutes before the tour starts on the first floor of the Ann Arbor Art Center in the Shop Gallery with your ticket information via phone or printout.

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS:

Tours will continue as scheduled through light rain. Please bring an umbrella and wear appropriate clothing. If heavy rain or severe weather is forecasted, we will notify registrants 24 hours ahead. In the case of heavy rain or severe weather, A2AC will provide a full refund or give you a credit to use on a future mural tour. Mid to late summer 2025 dates will be posted at the beginning of July.

ABOUT A2AC ART IN PUBLIC:

Launched in 2018, the A2AC Art in Public initiative has supported and assisted in the creation of over 30 murals and four alleyway installations throughout downtown Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The program connects building and business owners with local, regional, and national artists to transform blank walls and open spaces into vibrant public artworks. These small and large-scale pieces not only enhance the urban landscape but also offer residents and visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary art as part of everyday life in Ann Arbor and the broader Washtenaw County region.

REGISTER HERE for the Stroll Tour

LEARN MORE ABOUT A2AC MURALS

Summer Open Studio: Oil and Acrylic Painting
2025-06-11 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-10 17:00 - 20:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Bring your work to the A2AC and get creative in one of our beautiful brick-walled studios. These open studio sessions are for painters working in oil and/or acrylics who want dedicated working time in a studio space with a community-centered environment. A skilled monitor will be in each session to answer questions, provide assistance, and help with proper waste disposal.

All artists must bring their own supplies and materials. The A2AC will provide large standing easels, tabletop easels, odorless mineral spirits, and spirit containers, and we will have a selection of brushes on hand for participants to borrow if needed. Students are responsible for their own clean-up.

Sessions will take place on the second Tuesday and Wednesday of June, July, and August. The dates are as follows:

June 10 & 11 (5-8pm)July 8 & 9 (5-8pm)August 12 & 13 (5-8pm)

Please note: These drop-ins exist on a first-come, first-served basis; there is no prior registration available. Participants can pay the open studio fee at the front desk. The studios combined can hold a total of 20 people at a time. We will not admit students after 7:00pm.

Price: $10 for members and $15 for non-members

Location: Studio 301 & 302

Live Drawing with Drawn on the Way
2025-06-07 00:00 - 17:00 | A2AC Shop, 117 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48104, United States
Have a portrait of you, your family, your friends -- or even your dog made right on the spot with live illustrator Sarah Nisbett!

Sarah from Drawn On The Way will be at the shop from 12-5 PM for a Live Portrait Pop Up Event. Sarah is known for her expressive and minimal live illustrations, which she draws live in the moment! In just a few minutes, she’ll create a portrait of you, your loved ones, or even your pup, and you’ll walk away with the perfect gift or a bespoke work of art to keep forever.

$65 for a single sitter or $125 for a duo

Sessions run about 20 minutes

Email Sarah at hi@drawnontheway.com to book your appointment now! Pre-booking is strongly encouraged to guarantee a spot. Walk-ins will be taken as pre-booked appointments allow.

BOOK YOUR PORTRAIT TODAY

ABOUT SARAH

A self-taught artist, Sarah learned how to draw by drawing strangers on the New York City subway. Sarah will be available to sign copies of her book Drawn On The Way: A Guide To Capturing the Moment Through Live Sketching, which brings to life her mission to use drawing to help people find the extraordinary in the everyday and to see themselves and others as works of art. Come get a portrait made, watch the fun, or grab a copy of her book and turn your world into a work of art! You will also have the opportunity to learn about her live wedding illustration business, Drawn On Your Day!

MORE ABOUT DRAWN ON THE WAY

The Aquarium Opening Reception
2025-06-06 18:00 - 20:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
The teens are taking over the A2AC Gallery this summer, starting with the opening of The Aquarium, an exhibition created by an eclectic group of high school-aged artists from across Washtenaw County, including an aquarium-themed installation from the teens of The Neutral Zone.

The Neutral Zone is a transformative, youth-driven community where youth embrace their power, ignite their creativity, and launch their future to build equity, justice, and collective liberation.

Presented in partnership with

Website | Instagram | Facebook

ABOUT THIS EXHIBITION

001/164: A Poster Show by Jacob Rosenburg Opening Reception
2025-06-06 18:00 - 20:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for the Opening Reception of 001/164: A Poster Show by Jacob Rosenburg in the Spotlight Gallery on the 2nd floor of the A2AC. About the Exhibition

Through his work, Jacob tells personal stories and perspectives, hidden in layers through the art of gig posters. As he screen prints these posters, the soundtrack to his life is forever visually volumed; ready to be combed over like a box of records. Jacob asks for you to comb over these stories like you would through that box of records or merch at a show, and select one to take home. As posters are taken, the show will continue to visually change until the merch is “sold out.”

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A2AC PlayLab: Exploring Yoga with Marly Spieser-Scheider - Ages 7-12
2025-05-31 10:00 - 11:30 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In this workshop, caregivers and their child will learn foundational principles of the yoga philosophy and focus on the ideas of awareness and non-harming. We will explore yoga postures and talk about what it means to move with intention. We will also consider how the body and mind communicate with one another and learn how our body and breath can be tools to engage with and sooth our mind and emotions. These workshops will encourage curiosity, experimentation, and fun while also encouraging self-awareness, compassion, and confidence.

This is a free event, but as space is limited, we ask that you register to reserve your spot. Once spots are filled, you will be put on a waitlist. You will be automatically notified if a space becomes available. Please register for the age group appropriate for your child. One registration will cover both the caregiver and the child.

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

REGISTER FOR MAY 31 PLAYLAB FOR AGES 7-12

JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR JUNE 1 PLAYLAB FOR AGES 3-6

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Summer Art Classes Open for ALL
2025-05-16 07:00 - 2025-07-11 07:00
🎨 Brush up on summer fun with the A2AC with a Summer Art Class! ☀️

Registration opens for Members on Wednesday, May 14, at 7am, with general registration opening for all on Friday, May 16, at 7am.

Tune into a Sneak Peek on May 12 to see what creative joys we have in store for you before registration opens.

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SEE ALL UPCOMING CLASSES

Summer Art Classes Open for Members
2025-05-14 07:00 - 2025-05-16 06:59

Bloom Fest: Paper Flower Workshop with Nora Fradin
2025-05-10 13:00 - 15:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Celebrate things in Full Bloom! The A2AC Shop is celebrating Bloom Fest on May 10 in Downtown Ann Arbor.

Drop in to the A2AC Gallery from 1-3pm for a Paper Flower Workshop with artist Nora Fradin (Lilac & Blush) to make your very own blooms. The cost is $5 per bloom.

Additionally, visitors can shop local art from 10am-7pm in the A2AC Shop.

ABOUT NORA FRADIN (LILAC & BLUSH)

Nora Fradin is the artist and owner behind Lilac and Blush, a creative studio dedicated to the handcrafted magic of paper flowers. Inspired by color, texture, and the beauty of everyday moments—like a sunset’s gradient or the pages of a design magazine—Nora brings a unique blend of artistry and precision to each bloom she creates. Using Italian crepe paper, scissors, and glue, she meticulously cuts, sculpts, and assembles every petal, sepal, and leaf by hand. Her work captures the delicate charm of real flowers while celebrating the transformative power of craft. Lilac and Blush was founded in 2020, following years of exploring paper flower art, and takes its name from an early bouquet that sparked a joyful connection between color and creativity. Through her work, Nora invites others to find beauty in the handmade and delight in the simple magic of paper turned to petal.

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SHOP LOCAL IN THE A2AC SHOP

Analog or Digital Opening Reception
2025-05-02 18:00 - 20:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for the Opening Reception of Carrie Vander Veen's Analog or Digital in the Spotlight Gallery. In Analog or Digital, artist Carrie Vanderveen explores the intersection of technology, nature, and human connection in a rapidly changing world. Her layered gouache paintings celebrate the handmade and the sensual as a counterbalance to digital overwhelm, using natural imagery as both metaphor and source of solace. Blurring the boundaries between analog and digital, Vanderveen's work invites reflection on what we value, how we connect, and how we might find meaning in the midst of constant change.

ABOUT THIS EXHIBITION

A2AC PlayLab: Exploring Dance with Marly Spieser-Scheider - Ages 3-6
2025-04-27 10:00 - 11:30 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In this workshop, caregivers and their child will learn about the elements of dance as they physically explore time, space, and energy. We will also consider the relationship between our minds and our bodies and explore how our movement can tell stories and communicate our emotions. We will think about our bodies in relationship to other people and learn to move together and work together to make a dance. This workshop will be playful and collaborative and will emphasize the fun and joy of movement while also highlighting foundational ideas about dance and encouraging critical thinking, respect, and cooperation.

This is a free event, but as space is limited, we ask that you register to reserve your spot. Once spots are filled, you will be put on a waitlist. You will be automatically notified if a space becomes available. Please register for the age group appropriate for your child. One registration will cover both the caregiver and the child.

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR APRIL 27 PLAYLAB FOR AGES 3-6

REGISTER FOR APRIL 26 PLAYLAB FOR AGES 7-12

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