Features

An Exciting Time for Art and Culture

TC’s inaugural art advisory uplifts independent artists in Grand Traverse area

By Sara Bagley | July 25, 2026

From artists’ meetups to murals painted on sidewalls, northern Michigan’s arts community can feel like a hidden gem for those who aren’t yet sure where to look. That’s where Jessica Kooiman Parker, curator of visual arts at The Alluvion, and Maggie Pavão, formerly of the Tusen Takk Foundation, came in and formed K/P Cultural. The arts advisory, which officially launched in June 2026, works with both private and public clients to curate … Read More >>

Six Benzie County Art Havens to Visit This Summer

Experience local fine art, brand new events, and live performances at these art hubs

By Matt Dursum | July 25, 2026

Benzie County may be beloved for its Hallmark–esque towns and beaches that stretch to infinity, but it’s also a hub for fine art. From outdoor art parks that spark the imagination to galleries that would belong in a big city, there’s no shortage of inspiring places to visit. This summer, these creative destinations are hosting a variety of new exhibits, concerts, and special events you won’t want to miss.  The Community’s Art … Read More >>

The Art Of August

10 exhibits, shows, and fairs around NoMi

By Rachel Pasche | July 25, 2026

August in northern Michigan offers less hectic activity and more time to relax and soak up the beauty of late summer. Take a moment to slow down at one of the upcoming art exhibits, shows, and fairs that pop up across the area in August. Explore 10 of them below. EXHIBITS 1. Ikebana Pop-Up Exhibit, Dennos Museum CenterAug. 8–9Ikebana is the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, a centuries-old art form that … Read More >>

Finding Freedom in Process

For artist Meghan Merkey, clay is both humbling and empowering

By Ellen Miller | July 25, 2026

Ceramicist Meghan Merkey probably could have fallen in love with any art form. And yet as a young creative, it was clay that drew her in. “I grew up in a house that was very creative,” she says. “There were always projects to do; there was always a craft around.”  Both of Merkey’s parents were artsy, and she was about 12 years old when she worked with clay for the first time. … Read More >>

A Mirror, a Myth, and a Lifetime of Art

Rufus Snoddy on the chapters of his career

By Anna Faller | July 25, 2026

For award-winning multi-media artist and former Traverse City resident Rufus Snoddy, a canvas is more of a mirror for what’s going on in the world than a blank space that needs filling.  “I’m just trying to mirror things that are going on around me,” he notes. “Artists have always done that. All I can hope for is that people will appreciate the process and understand what I’m trying to say.”  Much like … Read More >>

Cheers To Sugar Loaf!

July 25, 2026

When the Leelanau Conservancy officially brought the former Sugar Loaf property into their portfolio this past March, there was a lot to celebrate for locals who love the former ski spot. Now, we’re raising a glass once again to a new partnership between the conservancy and French Valley Vineyards, the latter of which has released two special wines—aptly named Sugar Loaf Red and Sugar Loaf White—to help support the iconic Leelanau County … Read More >>

Are You Ready To Vote?

July 25, 2026

Tuesday, Aug. 4, is the Michigan primary election. For those who have requested them, absentee ballots have already been sent out and can be returned to your clerk’s office, your polling place drop box, or to your precinct’s early voting site. (It is recommended to hand-deliver your ballot within two weeks of election day.) You can track the status of your ballot at mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index. For those who are voting in person, early … Read More >>

Acoustic Guitar Retreat

By Ross Boissoneau | July 25, 2026

The Interlochen Acoustic Guitar Retreat will feature numerous instructors, including Pierre Bensusan, who will perform for students and the public July 28. Bensusan, whose style combines jazz, Celtic, world, and folk music, believes music is an essential part of the human experience. “Music is for touching everyone,” he says. “I’m still doing it, until I can’t do it anymore.” Bensusan left school at 16 to study guitar and perform, recording his first … Read More >>

A Concert With Heart

By Jamie Kauffold | July 25, 2026

The Kenny Olson 10th Annual Rock-N-Hole Charity Concert takes place Saturday, Aug. 1, at Elmbrook Golf Course in Traverse City. An 18-hole scramble starts at 1pm, followed by a 7pm concert, where Olson’s blues-rock style will be joined by keyboardist/singer Jimmy Olson and other musical guests. Olson has performed at iconic venues like Woodstock and the Super Bowl with artists like Aerosmith, Run DMC, and many more. With proceeds benefitting the Hallie’s … Read More >>

Old-Fashioned Blueberries

July 25, 2026

It’s a festival double header in the Cadillac area this weekend! First up, journey back in time at the Marion Old Fashion Days, as the town honors its heritage with parades, a cross-country 5K and 2M race, tons of local food and retail vendors, plus live music and family-friendly activities. The celebration runs July 31-Aug. 2; see all the details by searching “Marion Old Fashion Days” on Facebook. Meanwhile, in Harrietta, the … Read More >>