A2AC PlayLab: Exploring Storytelling
2025-11-15 13:00 - 2025-11-16 16:00 (America/Detroit) | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Students ages 8+ and their caregivers are invited to join author and editor Upasna Kakroo from Peerbagh in this special FREE 2-day workshop for young aspiring writers!

Learn new storytelling frameworks and explore world stories to spark your imagination! In this 2-day workshop, caregivers and children will create stories together and in groups as we write a little, spin a little yarn, paint, and even record an audio story! Participants will receive prompts, a story-writing blueprint, and a take-home toolkit to practice writing (or painting) their unique stories. As a bonus, kids and grown-ups will have a chance to submit a story to be published in the Bento children's magazine.

No prior writing or storytelling experience is needed, just come curious!

REGISTER FOR FREE

ABOUT PEERBAGH

Peerbagh’s mission is to improve teacher, librarian, and parent skills and bring the lost art of storytelling into the classroom or teaching environment through art, creative writing, theater, cultural inquisitiveness, and oral storytelling.

We conduct South-Asia-inspired storytelling workshops, publish a children’s magazine, Bento, and create toolkits for educators and families. We create an inclusive space for ALL children, so they have a sense of belonging and build creative confidence.

We provide tools for families and educators so they will be empowered to be cultural change agents. Through these tools, we train educators and parents to introduce diverse perspectives and critical thinking in children.

We also support South-Asian and other global artists in these areas to revive or practice their art forms.

We work out of Austin, Ann Arbor, Montreal, Dehradun, and via Zoom screens everywhere.

REGISTER FOR FREE

Fall Open Studio: Figure Drawing (Nude)
2025-11-22 13:00 - 16:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for figure drawing in Ann Arbor, where artists of all levels can explore their creativity through live figure drawing in an open studio setting. 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 alternating Saturdays during the Fall Term. 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 12 students at a time. We will not admit new students after 3:00pm.

Fall Term Sessions (Saturdays from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM):

September 27, October 11, October 25, November 8, November 22

Model: Nude figure

Age Requirement: 18+

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.

$10 for members and $15 for non-members

Winter Open Studio: Figure Drawing (NUDE)
2025-12-01 17:00 - 20:00
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 first and third Monday in December. 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 12 students at a time. We will not admit new students after 7:00pm.

December, 2025 Sessions (Mondays from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM):

December 1 & December 15

Model: Nude figure

Age Requirement: 18+

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.

2026 Winter Art Classes Open for Members
2025-12-03 07:00 - 2025-12-05 06:59
Warm up your palette this winter with the A2AC, because 2026 Winter Art Classes are coming!

Open for A2AC Members on Wednesday, December 3, at 7am.

Open for ALL on Friday, December 5, at 7am.

BECOME A MEMBER

Glow-In-The-Dark Magic Wands Drop-In
2025-12-05 17:00 - 22:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Bring the family to the A2AC for a fun, hands-on activity at this free Midnight Madness Family Drop-In!

Design and decorate your own glow-in-the-dark magic wand to bring home or to light your way through Downtown Ann Arbor during Midnight Madness. All materials and supplies will be provided, just come ready to make some magic!

While supplies last!

Midnight Madness
2025-12-05 17:00 - 23:00 | A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center), 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Come out of the cold and into the cozy! ❄️

Shop late, support local artists, and celebrate the season at our Midnight Madness event.

Extended hours. Festive vibes. One-of-a-kind gifts by local artists!

presented in collaboration with

SHOP LOCAL TODAY

LEARN MORE ABOUT MIDNIGHT MADNESS

Pioneer Orchestra at Midnight Madness
2025-12-05 19:00 - 21:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
On Friday, December 5, from 7-9pm, musicians from the Pioneer High School Orchestra Program will fill the A2AC Gallery with lively seasonal music during Ann Arbor’s Midnight Madness, the annual celebration that brings the community together to support downtown shops, galleries, and restaurants while welcoming the holiday season.

Small groups of students will perform throughout the evening, creating a festive soundtrack for your visit to the A2AC Holiday Shop or at our Glow in the Dark Magic Wands free family drop-in, sharing the space in the Gallery (while supplies last).

There is no cost to attend. Student musicians will have information available for anyone interested in supporting the Pioneer Orchestras.

ABOUT THE PIONEER HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA PROGRAM

Founded in 1895, the Pioneer High School Orchestra Program has a long-standing tradition of excellence in music education. They've nurtured generations of students, helping them develop not just as musicians but as well-rounded individuals. Their program is known for its diverse repertoire, high-caliber performances, and its role in fostering a love of music that lasts a lifetime.

LEARN MORE

A2AC PlayLab: Printmaking
2025-12-06 10:00 - 15:00
In this engaging and hands-on workshop, students will explore the elements of art and principles of design while completing a custom screen print of their own creation. Seriography, also known as screen printing, is a technique with over a thousand years of history, gaining widespread popularity in the 1960s through iconic artists like Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol.

During this session, children and caregivers will collaborate to each design and print their own custom tote bag and create a set of original prints. Participants will be guided step-by-step through the screen printing process, including how to design and cut a paper stencil, select and mix ink colors, and print their design onto fabric and paper.

This workshop encourages creativity, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of composition, figure ground relationships, and color theory—all while learning a time-honored art technique in a fun, supportive environment.

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. This registration includes instruction for two people. Please complete only one registration per two people, in your child's name.

REGISTER FOR 10AM-12PM | AGES 7-12

REGISTER FOR 1PM-3PM | AGES 13-17

Winter Open Studio: Figure Drawing (NUDE)
2025-12-15 17:00 - 20:00
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 first and third Monday in December. 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 12 students at a time. We will not admit new students after 7:00pm.

Winter Workshop Sessions (Mondays from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM):

December 1 & December 15

Model: Nude figure

Age Requirement: 18+

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.

Open Studio: Figure Drawing (Nude)
2026-01-01 12:00 - 2026-12-31 12:00
Click to see all upcoming Figure Drawing sessions.

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.

2026 Spring and Summer Camp Preview Opens
2026-01-09 07:00 - 2026-01-22 23:59
Summer will be here before you know it, and so will our Summer Art Camps in Downtown Ann Arbor! Get a sneak peek at our 2026 Spring and Summer Art Camps on Friday, January 9, 2025. See what weeks may be a good fit for your creative ones, then be sure to put Friday, January 23, 2025, at 7am on your radar when registration opens.

PREVIEW OUR CAMPS

A2AC Social 2026 Tickets On Sale for Members/Past Attendees
2026-01-14 07:00 - 2026-01-15 23:59
Grab your friends and escape the cold at the Ann Arbor Art Center on Friday, March 6, 2026, for our fourth annual A2AC Social!

Four art experiences commissioned from local artists, custom cocktails, and delicious small plates come together for an immersive night out.

SESSIONS TIMES:

SESSION 1: 5 PM – 7:15 PM

SESSION 2: 8 PM – 10:15 PM

ON SALE STARTING:

Wednesday, January 14, for Members/Past Attendees

Friday, January 16, for ALL

(Yes, you CAN purchase a group of tickets, and we will keep your group together!)

A2AC Social 2026 Tickets On Sale for ALL
2026-01-16 07:00 - 17:00

404 Accountability Not Found - Satirical Paintings of Bright Ackwerh Opening Reception
2026-01-16 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for the Opening Reception of 404: Accountability Not Found in the A2AC Spotlight Gallery. Since the upsurge of the World Wide Web more than two decades ago, those searching the internet have occasionally encountered the message, “404: Page Not Found.” This visual notification often stirs frustration and disappointment. The exhibition title replaces “Page Not Found” with “Accountability Not Found,” taking a cue from this sentiment of frustration and disappointment to situate itself within the context of artistic social commentary. Through the satirical paintings of Bright Ackwerh, this exhibition offers insight into lived experiences in contemporary Africa and a visual representation of a singular yet collective response to these experiences. The exhibition explores how art can confront the global challenge of holding elected officials accountable for their actions.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Skill Share - A2AC Instructor and Staff Showcase Opening Reception
2026-01-16 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for the Opening Reception of Skill Share in the A2AC Gallery. Skill Share highlights work made by the talented artists who share the "how to" of their artistic skills at the Ann Arbor Art Center. Works include 2D, ceramics, mixed media and more all made by the passionate A2AC community of instuctors and staff.

ABOUT THIS EXHIBITION

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Free Drop-In
2026-01-19 11:00 - 15:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Drop into the A2AC Gallery on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 19, anytime from 11:00am – 3:00pm for a meaningful and creative art activity celebrating community and connection! Using a variety of materials, participants will have access to everything they need to design and create a quilt square that reflects what they love and value about community. Individual squares will be stitched together to form a collective quilt, symbolizing the harmony in diversity and the strength of communal spirit. The completed quilt will be displayed in the A2AC Gallery window on Liberty Street.

This event is free and open to all ages and skill levels. All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. This activity is first-come, first-serve, while supplies last.

Select materials for the event were generously provided by

2025 Pictures

Key Takeaways

Join the A2AC Gallery on MLK Day in Ann Arbor, January 19, from 11:00am – 3:00pm for a creative quilt-making activity.

Participants can create a quilt square reflecting their values about community; squares will form a collective quilt.

The event is free and open to all ages; children under 12 must be with an adult.

It's first-come, first-serve while supplies last.

2026 Spring and Summer Camps Registration Opens
2026-01-23 07:00
Warm and sunny days are coming soon, as are the A2AC Spring and Summer Art Camps! Put Friday, January 23, 2025, at 7am on your calendar because you do not want to miss out on registration opening up for our Spring and Summer Art Camps in Downtown Ann Arbor. To prep you for everything you need to know about the camps, we're opening up a Preview on Friday, January 9, 2025.

PREVIEW OUR CAMPS

PlayLab: Paint Like Bob Ross
2026-02-01 12:00 - 15:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Students aged 8–12, along with their caregivers, are invited to join Certified Bob Ross Instructor Ted Simpson for a special PlayLab designed for young, aspiring artists. In this hands-on workshop, caregivers and students will paint together on a shared canvas, learning new techniques while discovering the joy of turning imagination and dreams into art.

Guided in the calm, encouraging Bob Ross style, participants of all skill levels will explore beginner-friendly painting methods, embrace “happy little accidents,” and enjoy a relaxed and creative experience. No prior painting experience needed—just bring your curiosity and creativity!

Free with registration!

REGISTER HERE

LEARN ABOUT TED SIMPSON

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

Call for Public Art: Bronze Figure of Kathy Kozachenko
2026-02-05 07:00 - 2026-03-08 21:00
Call for Public Art: Bronze Figure of Kathy Kozachenko

Deadline: March 8, 2026

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

The City of Ann Arbor invites qualified bronze artists or artist teams to submit qualifications to design, fabricate, and install a bronze figure of Kathy Kozachenko in front of Larcom City Hall at 301 E. Huron Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Kathy Kozachenko made history on April 2, 1974 by successfully running for elective office as the first openly gay or lesbian candidate in the United States. This public art commission is part of the City of Ann Arbor’s Bicentennial celebration in 2024 and reflects a City Council resolution to recognize Kathy Kozachenko’s contributions to public service, civil rights, and the LGBTQ+ community, coinciding with the City’s 200th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of her election as an Ann Arbor council member.

LEARN MORE

Heart-Shaped Accordion Cards Free Drop-In
2026-02-13 11:00 - 14:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Drop into the A2AC Main Gallery this Valentine's Day and make your own heart-shaped accordion cards using a variety of provided materials!

This event is free and open to all ages. All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Spring Art Classes Open for Members
2026-02-18 07:00 - 2026-02-20 00:00
2026 Spring Art Classes are coming! Get your memberships in order for our early Members launch on Wednesday, February 18, at 7am. If you're not a Member yet, please consider that as another way to support your Art Center. Not only does an A2AC Membership get you early access to the classes you want, but it also helps strengthen one of the hubs for our creative community.

BECOME A MEMBER TODAY

Spring Art Classes Open for ALL
2026-02-20 07:00 - 2026-02-23 05:00
Spring Art Classes in Ann Arbor opens to the public on Friday, February 20, at 7am. Whether it's spinning on the wheel, putting paint to paper, making a new piece of wearable jewelry, or coming together for a fun date night, the A2AC has what you need.

Sneak Peek starts February 16! Early Member pre-sale goes into effect on Wednesday, February 18.

SEE ALL UPCOMING CLASSES HERE

BECOME A MEMBER HERE

2026 A2AC Social
2026-03-06 17:00 - 22:20
2026 A2AC Social, an immersive art experience Ann Arbor

Session One: 5:00 pm - 7:05 pm

Session Two: 8:15 pm - 10:20 pm

Location: A2AC (Ann Arbor Art Center)

Ticket Price: $75

Description: Grab your friends and escape the cold for a night out in Ann Arbor at the A2AC on Friday, March 6, 2026, for our fourth annual immersive fundraiser, the A2AC Social, featuring four art experiences commissioned from local/regional artists, creative cocktails generously supplied by Mammoth Distilling, and tasty bites from our friends at Knights.

Centered Opening Reception
2026-03-13 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for the Opening Reception of the Spotlight Gallery's Centered: A2AC Ceramic Student Showcase in Downtown Ann Arbor. This free, all-ages event celebrates the exceptional work of our ceramic student community.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Deep Roots Opening Reception
2026-03-13 18:00 - 20:00 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join us for the Opening Reception of Deep Roots: A2AC Ceramic Invitational, a part of The National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts' (NCECA) Clay Around Town exhibition program in association with their 60th conference, Volumes, taking place in Detroit, MI, from March 25 - 28, 2026.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

ABOUT NCECA

Bloom Into Season - A2AC Shop Spring Drop
2026-04-06 08:00 - 2026-05-29 17:00
This spring, the A2AC Shop is blooming with new artwork, vibrant colors, and fresh artists.

Visit us in person or shop online to bring home the bright, refreshing spirit of the season.

SHOP ONLINE HERE

PlayLab - Exploring Dance with Marly Spieser-Schneider (kids aged 3-6)
2026-04-11 10:00 - 11:15 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In this free dance workshop for caregivers and kids aged 3-6 in Ann Arbor, attendees 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.

REGISTER FOR APRIL 11 PLAYLAB (KIDS 3-6)

REGISTER FOR APRIL 12 PLAYLAB (KIDS 7-12)

ABOUT PLAYLAB

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

PlayLab - Exploring Dance with Marly Spieser-Schneider (kids aged 7-12)
2026-04-12 10:00 - 11:15 | A2AC Gallery, 117 W Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In this free dance workshop for caregivers and kids aged 7-12 in Ann Arbor, attendees 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.

REGISTER FOR APRIL 12 PLAYLAB (KIDS 7-12)

REGISTER FOR APRIL 11 PLAYLAB (KIDS 3-6)

ABOUT PLAYLAB

A2AC PlayLab is supported by a grant from

Artini 2026 Tickets On Sale for Past Attendees/Members
2026-04-15 07:00 - 2026-04-17 07:00
The A2AC is excited to welcome you back downtown for Artini 2026!

That’s right–our annual cocktail crawl fundraiser is BACK on Saturday, June 20.

Tickets go on sale for Past Attendees/Members on April 15, and for ALL on April 17.

This year, many of Ann Arbor’s finest bars and restaurants will craft the city’s most colorful martini. From 6:00pm to 10:00pm, explore participating venues and sample inventive cocktails designed by some of the city’s top mixologists. NEW THIS YEAR: Artini 2026 cocktail creations will feature Mammoth Distilling’s award-winning spirits. Several venues will also offer creative non-alcoholic mocktails, available to enjoy using your Artini drink tickets—making the experience more inclusive and fun for everyone.

This June 20, taste the rainbow and vote for your favorite drink! We can’t wait to celebrate with you in the closed-off summer streets of Main Street Ann Arbor and beyond.

MORE DETAILS AND VENUE ANNOUNCEMENTS TO COME!

BECOME A MEMBER HERE

Presented by

With support From

In partnership with

Artini 2026 Tickets On Sale for ALL
2026-04-17 07:00 - 2026-06-16 07:00
The A2AC is excited to welcome you back downtown for Artini 2026!

That’s right–our annual cocktail crawl fundraiser is BACK on Saturday, June 20.

Tickets go on sale for Past Attendees/Members on April 15, and for ALL on April 17.

This year, many of Ann Arbor’s finest bars and restaurants will craft the city’s most colorful martini. From 6:00pm to 10:00pm, explore participating venues and sample inventive cocktails designed by some of the city’s top mixologists. NEW THIS YEAR: Artini 2026 cocktail creations will feature Mammoth Distilling’s award-winning spirits. Several venues will also offer creative non-alcoholic mocktails, available to enjoy using your Artini drink tickets—making the experience more inclusive and fun for everyone.

This June 20, taste the rainbow and vote for your favorite drink! We can’t wait to celebrate with you in the closed-off summer streets of Main Street Ann Arbor and beyond.

MORE DETAILS AND VENUE ANNOUNCEMENTS TO COME!

Presented by

With support From

In partnership with
