Since its founding in 1948, the mission of the Art Center of Battle Creek has been to present high quality programs in the visual arts for the enrichment, education and enjoyment of the citizens of Battle Creek, Michigan and beyond.

The Art Center, a non-profit organization is the primary visual arts organization for a service area of some 140,000. It takes seriously its responsibility to serve a diverse constituency and employs a variety of means by which to do so.

Each year the Art Center exhibits 10 to 12 shows that highlight diverse subjects from traditional arts to contemporary visual art. Included in the annual schedule is the Michigan Artist Competition exhibition to showcase talented artists from our state. Also annually presented is Class Act, both Elementary and Secondary, which gives local school age art students the opportunity to see their work in a museum setting.

A "Kidspace" interactive area is included with each of the Art Center's exhibitions. This space provides an environment for children to respond to the current exhibit using art supplies and projects with simple instructions provided by the Art Center.

Instruction in art media such as oil painting, watercolor, ceramics, jewelry, print making, and weaving is offered four semesters a year by experts in each discipline for adults and children. Special workshops complimenting the monthly exhibitions are also planned.

Located at the Art Center of Battle Creek, the gift shop specializes in works by Michigan artists as well as nationally known artists. Included in the shop are unique gifts, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, books and much more! The Art Center is always looking for new and unique art work for its gift shop.

The Art Center has over 200 works in its collection produced by Michigan artists. Selections from the collection are on view and change on a monthly basis as space allows. The Art Center also has an archive with information on hundreds of Michigan artists.

Art-Goes-To-School is a long standing program of the Art Center that gives educators the opportunity to bring different cultural programs into their classrooms. Art-Goes-To-School kits include actual artifacts, resource material plus transparencies and a Power-Point presentation all geared for a variety of age levels. Currently available are: Japanese Art; Traditional Arts of Mexico and Central America and Michigan Art and Artists. Professional development opportunities are available to area school districts in handling these programs.

VOLUNTEERING:

Our volunteers help with the Gift Shop, special events, receptions, and administrative duties. Volunteers may also receive training to become docents (gallery guides).

The Art Center receives funding from many sources including grants from various foundations, individuals and the United Arts Council.

HOURS:
Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays from 11:00 a.m to 3 p.m.
Closed Sundays, Mondays and major holidays

Telephone:
(269) 962-9511

Fax:
(269) 969-3838

Mailing Address:
265 East Emmett Street
Battle Creek, MI 49017

Email:
artcenterofbc@yahoo.com