Mission:

To be a contemporary forum for the visual arts through education, exploration, collaboration and exhibition, and to engage minds, expand perspectives and inspire growth in students of all ages, teachers, artists and the community

About Us:

For over 100 years the Ann Arbor Art Center has engaged the community in visual arts through courses, public exhibitions, a gallery promoting regional artists, outreach programs for teens and education for children

As the 3rd oldest arts organization in Michigan, the Ann Arbor Art Center strives to engage the community in visual arts by offering:

- Art creation and appreciation courses

- Monthly public exhibitions

- A gallery shop promoting regional artists

- Outreach programs funding art education for children

- Special Events like Artini, Host with the Most and Paint the Town-WineFest

With such diverse programs, no wonder we attract an eclectic bunch. Ranging from toddlers to seniors, our students choose from more than 250 beginner to advanced level courses using clay, paint, pencil, pastel, metal, fiber, paper, and canvas. 

Here at the Art Center, we encourage a welcoming community where you can challenge yourself. Sparking creativity for close to a century, the Art Center has grown to include 14 staff members, a team of highly qualified art instructors, hundreds of volunteers, ties to over 300 Michigan artists, and a membership community exceeding 500. 

Bound by an appreciation for art, our participants and contributors support a facility that encourages beginners, promotes Michigan artists, and works passionately to make art training available to all.

History:

Founded in 1909, the Ann Arbor Art Center's mission is to be a dynamic organization, engaging the community in the education, exhibition and exploration of the visual arts. It is the only organization in Ann Arbor that offers hands-on art education, art appreciation programs, and exhibitions all in one facility. It is committed to breaking through economic, social and physical barriers by offering outreach programs to provide easy access to the arts for everyone, tuition grants and programs for all levels of art skill and interests in locations throughout the region.