Summer is typically a time for destinations and adventures. But with many places closed from the COVID-19 pandemic, it may be time to start looking in our own backyards for inspiration.
Art Reach of Mid Michigan, the Mt. Pleasant-based arts organization, has released its schedule of workshops and events planned for the second half of summer.
While indoor class sizes have been limited, some others have been moved outdoors. Of course, many of Art Reach’s summertime events already occur outdoors year-in, year-out.
"We’ve been following CDC guidelines, limiting class-size when indoors. We had to add afternoon summer camp classes to accommodate students," says Jeff Silvernail, marketing coordinator for Art Reach. Silvernail also says that everyone, including teachers, is required to wear face masks when indoorsSu.
"With our street closed for outdoor dining, we’re planning on having crafts and classes out front of the building, too."
One such event that has been adapted to 2020 is Planting in the Park, which occurs Saturdays, July 18 and 25. While the first-day meets at Art Reach to learn acrylic paint pouring on terracotta pots, the second day has the class meeting at Island Park, where they’ll plant succulents and learn best care practices.
Summer Break Art Camp has been split into morning and afternoon sessions beginning Monday, July 20, and running through Friday, July 24. Snacks and supplies are provided.
A guided, step-by-step painting class, Mini Masters, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
On Thursday, July 30, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., it’s Brews & Brushes, a guided acrylic painting class where students are encouraged to bring their favorite beverages.
Like the Summer Break Art Camp before it, the STEAM Art Camp has been split into morning and afternoon sessions. This one runs from Monday, July 27, through Friday, July 31.
The annual Artists Battle will challenge artists to complete an original work of art in 90 minutes. The event, which takes outside on Broadway Street, has added a youth category for the first time. Registration ends at noon on Monday, Aug. 3, and the event itself takes place the next day, Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Lay claim to your own sidewalk square in downtown Mt. Pleasant with Chalk the Walk, which lets artists take over the city sidewalks with their own designs and chalk pastels. A workshop is scheduled at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12, with the installations planned for Thursday, Aug. 13, through Saturday, Aug. 15.
Visit Art Reach of Mid Michigan online for more information about workshops, events, and registration.
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