EVENTS
Small Works Exhibit
This year’s all ages Holiday Show at the Holland Area Arts Council is filled with unique, handcrafted small works by talented local artists! Featuring small paintings, mixed media, ceramic sculptures and more. Perfect for adding original artwork to your home or finding that one-of-a-kind gift for someone special. Each piece is individually priced and available to take home at the time of purchase. Visit us in the Main Street Gallery at the Arts Council Dates: November 14 – December 21
HAAC Closed for the Holidays
The Holland Area Arts Council will be closed from Tuesday, December 24th at 3pm through Wednesday, January 1st. Regular business hours resume on Thursday, January 2nd.
Community Cookie Crawl
The Holland Area Arts Council will participating in the Herrick Library’s Community Cookie Crawl!
Begin your festive adventure by picking up your custom cookie box and map from Herrick Library, then set off to explore local businesses throughout downtown. As you stroll, collect an assortment of delicious cookies from each stop, savoring the sweet flavors of the season while discovering the charm of our community. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with friends and family!
10-12 p.m. - Pick-up at Herrick District Library with free coffee from Stovetop Coffee Roasters
10-1 p.m. - Cookie Crawl through downtown Holland
SinterKlaas Shuffle
The Holland Area Arts Council will be with Carolyn Stich and Carolyn’s Candy Land for the SinterKlaas Shuffle!
Join Sinterklaas and his friends for a wonderful trip to fun and faraway places without leaving downtown Holland! Sinterklaas will welcome families downtown to celebrate this Dutch holiday tradition. Guests will also be able to visit with skiers in Dutch costumes, the Community Police Team from the Holland Police Department, and even Sinterklaas' beautiful white horse, Ozosnel.
Start this adventure at the Tulip Time office to pick up lanterns and passports before stamping your passport at Sinterklaas's Lodge, Polar Place, Sperry Slopes, Carolyn's Candy Land, and Ozosnel's Stable. Small gifts will be given to passport holders at each station. Post photos to Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #SinterklaasShuffle to be entered to win a special prize.
Passports are $5 each. Adults and siblings may accompany passport holders at no cost. Be sure to purchase a ticket for anyone hoping to receive their own goodies and lanterns.
SinterKlaas Shuffle
The Holland Area Arts Council will be with Carolyn Stich and Carolyn’s Candy Land for the SinterKlaas Shuffle!
Join Sinterklaas and his friends for a wonderful trip to fun and faraway places without leaving downtown Holland! Sinterklaas will welcome families downtown to celebrate this Dutch holiday tradition. Guests will also be able to visit with skiers in Dutch costumes, the Community Police Team from the Holland Police Department, and even Sinterklaas' beautiful white horse, Ozosnel.
Start this adventure at the Tulip Time office to pick up lanterns and passports before stamping your passport at Sinterklaas's Lodge, Polar Place, Sperry Slopes, Carolyn's Candy Land, and Ozosnel's Stable. Small gifts will be given to passport holders at each station. Post photos to Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #SinterklaasShuffle to be entered to win a special prize.
Passports are $5 each. Adults and siblings may accompany passport holders at no cost. Be sure to purchase a ticket for anyone hoping to receive their own goodies and lanterns.
Parade of Lights
Santa Claus arrives in Downtown Holland during the annual Parade of Lights on Tuesday, December 3 at 6:30 pm. He’ll be escorted by 75 floats, trucks, antique cars, walkers and marching bands...all decked out from top to bottom in thousands of sparkling lights! This brightly lit holiday procession is fun for the entire family and a holiday tradition for the entire community! The Parade of Lights will begin at the corner of 8th Street and Columbia Avenue at 6:30 pm and proceed west down 8th Street until it reaches the Holland Civic Center, home of the Holiday Kerstmarkt! The Parade of Lights is proudly sponsored by Gentex Corporation.
Arts 50+
Glass & Gloss: Holiday Enamel Painting
Join Carolyn Stich for enamel painting on glass plates. Freehand your own design or follow easy templates provided by Cayolyn! No experience required. This event is free and open to ages 50+. Max 40 attendees. Register online at hollandarts.org/adult-classes
Closed for Thanksgiving
WE ARE CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 1ST. REGULAR HOURS RESUME MONDAY, DECEMBER 2ND AT 5:30PM
Tatsuki Hakoyama Reception
Tatsuki Hakoyama
Lievense Gallery
Reception and Artist Talk: November 21st, 5:30-7:00 pm
Tatsuki Hakoyama is a Japanese artist living and working in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Having experienced lifestyles in Japan, Samoa, and the United States, his works reflect on the role of culture, community, and the effect that environment has on identity through allegorical figurative paintings. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant, MI, and his Master of Fine Arts in Painting from Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) in Grand Rapids, MI. Hakoyama has exhibited his work in various solo and group exhibitions and received recognition for his work including the Director’s Purchase Prize at the 2023 West Michigan Area Show in Kalamazoo, MI, and the 1st Place Juror’s Award at 2021 Art Walk Central in Mt. Pleasant, MI. Aside from his professional studio practice, he teaches at KCAD and Grand Rapids Community College.
ART CART - free community activity!
Calling all Swifties! The Eras Tour is about to start up again! Maybe you have concert tickets "The Lucky One", or maybe not "Shake It Off" - either way, come make friendship bracelets with us Saturday, October 12th from 11-1. This is a free event All supplies included (while they last!)
Arts 50+
***CLASS IS FULL! EMAIL FOR WAITLIST HELPDESK@HOLLANDARTS.ORG***
Join Carolyn Stich for enamel painting on glass plates. Freehand your own design or follow easy templates provided by Cayolyn! No experience required. This event is free and open to ages 50+. Max 40 attendees. Register online at hollandarts.org/adult-classes
Awards Reception: Holland Friends of Art Exhibition
The Holland Friends of Art is an organization of talented artists, originally founded in 1963 through the efforts of the local creative community. Their mission is to stimulate community awareness of the creative arts in the Holland area. This year’s members-only exhibition is a true testament to all the wonderful and talented artists in the West Michigan Area.
Artist Reception:Twenty-Something Exhibition
The Twenty-Something Exhibition showcases the artwork of young emerging adult artists in our region. This group show features fifteen select artists who are going somewhere. See and discover what our artistic future looks like!
Artist Reception: past tattering… a witnessing: Kristine Granger
Marquette Artist Kristine Granger displays her enigmatic installation of sculpture, video and photography to create a not-to-be-missed installation. Kristine Granger is currently Art Faculty and Fine Arts Coordinator for Bay College in Escanaba MI. She has been published in the 2nd edition of, Elements of Photography, by artist and author Angela Faris-Belt. Granger was a 2020 & 2022, Artist-in-Residence at Chateau d’Orquevaux in Orquevaux, France, and a recipient of The Denis Diderot Award. Her sculpture, jouissance, and, the red one, created at the residency are now part of their permanent collection and on permanent display in the Chateau. In 2022, she was an artist-in-residence on Mackinac Island and the recipient of the grand prize for Poetic Visions of Mackinac. Kristine is an interdisciplinary artist who investigates memory and exhibits both nationally and internationally. In 2023 Granger established, Rock Street Artist Residency, at her home in Marquette MI.
ART CART - free community activity!
We will be creating with polymer clay for our September Art Cart project! Come join us for this free activity at the Holland Area Arts Council September 14th from 11:00am-1:00pm
ART CART - free community activity!
We will be celebrating the summer coming to a close with a beach ball suncatcher Art Cart project! Come join us for this free activity at the Holland Area Arts Council August 24th from 11:00am-1:00pm
Judi Kruis Reception and Artist Talk at Gateway Spoon Cafe and Grill
Art of the Spoon is excited to announce our new exhibition! Be sure to stop by The Gateway Spoon Cafe and Grill to see some beautiful paintings by Judi Kruis, and to get some yummy food!
Mark your calendars for Judi Kruis's RECEPTION AND ARTIST TALK will be on August 14th, 2024 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Judi Kruis, a buyer by day, is a woman of diverse talents and experiences. After many years in the corporate world, she took a detour to share seven years working with others in Latin America, engaging in international outreach. Also exploring new paths in non-profit work, small business consulting, and fine art. Drawing from her workshop history and wisdom as a certified coach, she has transformed her passion for writing into books, offering uplifting strategies to help others turn their dreams into reality. Her books are available on Amazon and her website, a testament to her multifaceted journey.
Consider: Cindy Bender Reception
Consider: Cindy Bender
July 11 - September 7 Lievense and Zobkiw Gallery
Artist Talk and Reception: August 8th, 5:30-7:00 pm FREE
This collection of paintings represents Cindy’s journey as an artist. You will see examples of watercolors featuring trees, water, people, animals, and more as well as a couple of oils. Cindy prefers to paint a large variety of subjects, with many offering a challenge to meet, such as painting reflections in water, shadows, body and facial expressions, water droplets, and light. Cindy loves to meet the challenges presented in each new work. This keeps her journey interesting and enjoyable!
Small Great Works Mixed Media Workshop
This is a fun class and will appeal to many types of artists. We will work in a small format-3.5”x4.5”; mostly on Bristol Board but also on other heavy papers and tags. To these surfaces we will adhere decorative papers, found objects, words from old books and embellishments. Other mediums can be used, such as water color paints, copic and metallic markers and more. These tiny art pieces can be incorporated in the pocket of a handmade book, a collage, a card or other mixed media art projects. They can also be traded with other artists to demonstrate a particular technique, process or color combination. So many possibilities. Come join the fun! All supplies will be included but students are encouraged to bring anything they would like to add to their work. Such as: scrapes of decorative paper, markers, words, small found objects etc.
ART CART - free community activity!
We will be making a fun summer jellyfish for our July Art Cart! Come join us for this free activity at the Holland Area Arts Council!
Sweet Tooth: Candice Chovanec Artist Talk and Reception
Join us at the Holland Area Arts Council on June 13th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. There are over 60 names for naturally and synthetically produced sugar. We package it in plain sight and hide it in everything we eat. This unavoidable substance is a source of pleasure, pain, comfort, frustration, pride, and shame. Sugar addiction is genetic and learned while also being isolating and generational. Sweet Tooth examines the complex relationship between sugar and addiction.
A Work in Progress: M. Joy Lemon Artist Talk and Reception
Join us at the Holland Area Arts Council on June 13th, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. After earning her BFA from university M. Joy Lemon produced decent work, but felt like she lacked skill and refinement in a way she could not clearly define at the time. Joy remembers hearing “A good painter is a good drawer” and that’s what she set out to do. In the spring of 2020, Joy began to study various art techniques. She came across the classical academic method of atelier training, a method undertaken by the greats of the past, from Michelangelo to Sargent. It is a form of rigorous intuitive study focused on developing an artist’s eye for accuracy with proportion, value, and color to a very high degree of sensitivity. While developing refined control of materials she learned to do without relying on external measuring devices or tools. This method is reflected in this very beautiful collection of works.
Art Cart
Find the Art Council’s Art Cart near Window on the Waterfront playground for a ✨ free art activity! ✨ We will be making bird kites from 11am-1pm tomorrow - Saturday, June 8th!
Spring Ocarinas Class
Come and spend a Saturday morning making and decorating a clay Ocarina. Ocarinas are traditional South American whistles. They can take any form such as animals, fish, flowers and people. Let your imagination fly. The pieces will be fired and ready to collect approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
FREE DR. SUESS EXHIBIT GUIDED TOUR
Free Guided Tour of the Dr. Seuss Exhibit on display at Holland Area Arts Council!
Debut Regional Juried High School Art Competition
Reception: Thursday, April 18, 5:30 pm-7:00 pm
Juror this year is Barbara Carlson, Professional artist, art instructor, and owner of Armory Art Center in Grand Haven.
Acceptance/declination notification: March 9
Accepted work delivery date: March 23-March 26
Art Cart: Community Day
Come to the Art Cart on Saturday, April 13th from 11-1 to make spring flower luminaries! A wonderful way to use pressed flowers for a fun and easy craft for kids and adults alike!
Arts 50+ Strokes and Spokes for Folks
STROKES & SPOKES FOR FOLKS Special Guest Artist Carolyn Stich
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the themes of tulips and bicycles through the artful techniques of watercolor and collage. Perfect for individuals of all skill levels, offering a chance to learn, create, and connect. No experience required. This event is free and open to ages 50+.
Art of the Spoon
Artist Talk and Reception March 21st, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
The Gateway Spoon Cafe & Grill, 633 E. 24th St. Holland, MI 49423
The Holland Area Arts Council and the Gateway Spoon Café & Grill Restaurant are pleased to announce a new artist series “Art of The Spoon”. This series collaborates with The Spoon to feature artists throughout the year. Artwork sold at The Spoon supports both organizations as well as the artist.
Christi M. Dreese is a contemporary impressionist painter based in Spring Lake, Michigan. Her painting reflects the relaxed nature of lakeside living that she experienced as a child. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Aquinas College, and her art has been showcased in several exhibitions and galleries throughout Michigan. Dreese collaborates with art consultants and interior designers to deliver exceptional results for their projects. Her artwork is displayed in several medical facilities, and private and corporate art collections throughout the United States.
Bunny Breakfast Sets
Join Gemma for a fun Saturday at the Holland Area Arts Council! Kids will get creative with pottery handbuilding techniques making their own Easter breakfast set - choose from a plate, bowl, spoon, or egg cup. We’ll also explore decorating with glazes before firing up your creation. Items will be ready to pick up in about 3-4 weeks! Ages 8-12 $70
Arts 50+ Tissue Paper Art
Arts 50+ Tissue Paper Art
Arts 50+ Tissue Paper Art (FREE)
Ages: 50+
Tuesday, March 5th
11:00am - 12:00pm
Creative arts for 50 or better. This one hour class teaches you to "paint" and "collage" with tissue for beautiful, frame-worthy pieces. Learn how to make artistic decisions using the color wheel and create stunning art. No experience required. This is event is free and open to ages 50+. Max 30 attendees. Registration required.
My Journey Through Life of Art: Larry Blovits Artist Talk and Reception
My Journey Through a Life of Art: Larry Blovits
January 26 -March 30
Padnos and Armstrong Gallery
Reception and Artist Talk: February 15 5:30-7:00 pm
Larry Blovits, well known and respected throughout the West Michigan area, has amassed his retrospective in our galleries. His works will be organized chronologically from the 1970s through current. Many former students will be thrilled to see this exhibit. It seems so many regional artists have learned from this master in drawing and painting. Professor Emeritus from Aquinas College, Larry has amassed an international reputation for his artwork, and workshop instructor having taught workshops locally and nationally, and abroad in England, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, and Australia. More information about the artist can be found on his website at www.larryblovits.com.