Tag Archives: Saugatuck Center for the Arts

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts and AWARE feature acclaimed documentary

September 6, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentAWARE, film, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Tab Hunter, Tab Hunter: ConfidentialJoanne

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts and AWARE will host a co-fundraising event on Saturday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. The fundraiser benefits AWARE’s scholarship fund and the SCA’s internship programs. The event, at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, features cash bar and appetizers along with a screening of Tab Hunter: Confidential. Tickets are $25 and can be reserved at sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.

Guests can mingle under the SCA’s pavilion from 6 – 7 p.m., then adjourn to the theater and have an opportunity to meet AWARE scholarship winners and SCA interns.

The acclaimed documentary “Tab Hunter: Confidential” will then be screened. Called on of the “Top 10 Best LGBTQ-Themed Films of 2015” by Big Gay Picture Show, Tab Hunter: Confidential follows the movie star and his struggles to hide his sexuality during his years of stardom. This documentary, directed by award-winning filmmaker Jeffery Schwartz, tells Hunter’s turbulent and inspiring story.

SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong explained that the two non-profits worked together on the screening of Saugatuck Cures last summer and decided to continue the partnership. “We had positive feedback from guests about the co-fundraiser,” Armstrong said. “The event gives us an opportunity to raise funds for the important educational work both organizations are doing and to showcase key young professionals.”

AWARE President Jim Renberg added, “We’re excited to share a short film about two recent AWARE scholarship recipients at the event. The film was made by SCA intern Chelsie Bender. We love highlighting these students and sharing their stories with the community.”

New York Times bestselling author Wade Rouse reads excerpts from ‘The Charm Bracelet’

August 29, 20163-bottom, Entertainmentreading, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCA, The Charm Bracelet, Wade RouseJoanne

Wage Rouse, author of "The Charm Bracelet" and a resident of the Saugatuck area. — Wade Rouse (pen name, Viola Shipman), author of “The Charm Bracelet” and a resident of the Saugatuck area.

New York Times bestselling author Wade Rouse will appear at a private cocktail fundraiser hosted by the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver, Thursday, Sept. 8 from 6-8 pm.

Limited tickets, which are $100 per person, are available for the event; to reserve call 269.857.2399 or go to www.sc4a.org.

Guests will enjoy heavy appetizers, drinks, and conversation with Rouse. The author will also read from his newest bestselling novel, The Charm Bracelet, and guests will receive a signed copy to take home.

The Charm Bracelet has been chosen three times by the nation’s independent booksellers as an Indie Next Pick and has been called a “Must-Read” by NBC’s Today Show. The novel was inspired by Rouse’s grandmother and he chose his grandmother’s name — Viola Shipman — as a pen name to honor her.

The Charm Bracelet touches on the importance of family as an elderly lady, Lolly, shares stories about her life with her daughter and granddaughter. She tells tales commemorated through a charm bracelet she received from her mother at a young age.

“We’re just delighted to work with Wade for this special event,” said Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “This is a wonderful opportunity for conversation with him in an intimate setting. Wade is so supportive of the educational work the SCA does with children in our West Michigan communities – we’re honored to host him for the evening.”

Proceeds from this event help fund free educational programs for Pre-K through 12th graders at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.

Saugatuck Center for the Art’s newest exhibition takes on a vibrant and playful atmosphere

August 26, 2016EntertainmentJillian Dickson, Pam Kravetz, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

"Just as Wild" by Jillian Dickson — “Just as Wild” by Jillian Dickson

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, welcomes two new artists to its exhibition gallery and corridor series. The exhibition runs through Oct. 7.

Pam Kravetz, born, raised and working in Cincinnati, debuts her engaging gallery of marionette puppets, pulley systems, and narrative quilts in her exhibition Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys. She combines her pieces alongside community student’s sock monkey creations to build an interactive experience for everyone who enters the gallery.

“Pam’s works have a wonderfully optimistic and whimsical quality that are appealing to the eye and relatable to anyone,” said SCA Education & Exhibit Coordinator Whitney Valentine. “We’re so fortunate to be able to exhibit this collection of work. The larger than life puppets, bold color and unique stories truly come to life in our space!”

Jillian Dickson, professor of drawing and painting at Alma College, brings to light the relationship between nature and the human body in her exhibit Just as Wild. After experiencing the transformative process of pregnancy and delivery, she began to understand her body in a different light. Her drawings examine the seemingly forgotten and neglected connection between tactile human bodies and wild nature. Although the two may seem different her drawings attempt to find their connections.

For more information about the exhibitions visit online at sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

The exhibition Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys is sponsored by Kathleen Markland. The corridor series is sponsored by the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs.

Things get ‘wild’ at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

August 22, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentJillian Dickson, Just as Wild, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Whitney ValentineJoanne

Work by xxxxx will be on display at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Aug. 25 - Oct. xx — Work by Jillian Dickson will be on display at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Aug. 25 – Oct. 7.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts will feature Just as Wild, a collection of drawings by artist Jillian Dickson, in the Corridor Exhibition from Aug. 25 through Oct. 7. A free opening reception will take place on Aug. 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Just as Wild is a series of colored pencil drawings which attempt to recognize the connections between nature and the human body, and how society shapes this connection. Inspired by her pregnancy, Dickson often explores topics of female empowerment, the naked body, and nature.

“Jillian creates beautiful, complex drawings filled with life,” said Whitney Valentine, Education & Exhibitions Manager at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. “Her pieces encourage the viewer to think about the powerful connection between humans and nature and how that plays out in their own lives.”

Dickson’s intricately drawn works fuse images of human organs with budding flowers, ribbons, and butterflies. The mix of feminine details and claustrophobic detailing demonstrates the complexity of the female body and spirit.

“Her art is both beautiful and thought provoking,” said Saugatuck Center for the Arts Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “It’s so personal, yet relatable for each of us.”

The installation will be open from Aug. 25 through Oct. 7 in the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Corridor Exhibition. the Saugatuck Center for the Arts is located at 500 Culver St., Saugatuck.

The exhibit is sponsored by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Creativity Revealed: Exploring Not My Circus, Not My Monkees with Artist Pam Kravetz

August 20, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, EntertainmentCreativity Revealed, Kristin Armstrong, Pam Kravetz, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

Artist Pam Kravxxxx's work will be at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Aug. 25 - Oct. 7. — Artist Pam Kravetz’s work will be at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Aug. 25 – Oct. 7.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts will be hosting a Creativity Revealed featuring Pam Kravetz, the artist and creator of the “Not My Circus, Not My Monkees.” She will be discussing her inspiration and creative process in creating the whimsical exhibit. The event will be held Wednesday, Aug. 23 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and is free to the public. More information can be found at sc4a.org or by phone at 269-857–2399.

Kravetz is a working artist and professional educator based in Cincinnati, Ohio. She uses vibrant colors and whimsical subjects to create a silly mood with a bold statement.

Kravetz says she gains inspiration everyday. “My creativity and art is inspired by the beauty and the chaos of the everyday. From a conversation with a friend, to a cupcake I received on the way to a road trip, to a shade of MAC lipstick. Nothing is too big or too small for me to explore using my art.”

“It’s always a pleasure to see an artist’s journey,” said Kristin Armstrong, Saugatuck Center for the Arts Executive Director. “It’s a special chance to glimpse inside of someone’s thoughts and then see the final project in front of you.”

The exhibit, “Not My Monkees, Not My Circus,” is a site specific art installation which comes to life when the viewer steps inside the gallery. Featuring marionette puppets, pulley systems, and narrative quilts, the exhibit is highly interactive. It will be featured in the SCA exhibition room Aug. 25 through Oct. 7.

‘Drive South’ returns to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

August 12, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentDrive South, guitar duo, Mary Sue Wilkinson, Roger Brown, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

Roger Brown and Mary Sue Wilkinson make up the guitar duo Drive South.

Back by popular demand, Drive South will be making their second appearance at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 40 Culver St., for the Summer in the Studio concert series. The duo will perform Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Performance Studio. Tickets are $15 and are available online at sc4a.org or by phone at 269-857-2399.

Mary Sue Wilkinson and Roger Brown, both seasoned artists, make up Drive South. The two pair Brown’s accomplished finger style guitar playing and Wilkinson’s rock solid rhythm guitar playing with tight vocal duets and harmonies.

“Something very special happens when Roger and Mary Sue sing together. When you add great songwriting and finger style guitar playing to great vocals you’ve got Drive South,” said David Holt, four-time Grammy Winner, TV and Radio Host, Doc Watson’s Music Partner.

The duo also performs as the core for the country band The Wilenes, who feature vocal duets perfectly matched with Brown’s finger style guitar and Wilkinson’s solid rhythm guitar.

“These two are so great together, their energy and charisma make the show one of a kind,” said Saugatuck Center for the Arts Executive Director Kristen Armstrong. “We are so happy they can come back and perform once again.”

Drive South is the last performance in the Summer in the Studio concert series at the SCA. The series was sponsored by Carol & Greg Josefowicz.

Easel On Down to the SCA’s Summer Exhibition

August 10, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentAnne Corlett, painting, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, sc4aJoanne

Artist Anne Corlett painting in Utah. Corset’s work will be featured at the Saugatuck Center for Arts June 10 through Aug. 16.

UPDATE: WKTV will be airing a video featuring “Easel Down the Road” exhibition currently at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Show times are 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13; 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m Monday, Aug. 15; and 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 19. The exhibit officially closes at SCA Aug. 15.

The latest exhibition at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, “Easel on Down the Road,” opens Friday, June 10, with a reception from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. The public is invited to experience what it’s like to journey, paint, and blog across all 50 states while enjoying refreshments and meeting artist Anne Corlett. The exhibition will be open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. through June 25, then open every day until 5 p.m. through Aug. 15.

The exhibition includes landscapes painted in all 50 states and shares the story of Corlett’s unique three-year undertaking. The quest eventually led to crowd-funding for the final leg of her journey, along with publication of a book detailing the creative adventure. Corlett’s books are for sale at the SCA throughout the summer.

“Take your journey,” Corlett said reflecting on the project. “You won’t believe what you’ll learn from it.” SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong added, “As soon as we heard about Anne’s ambitious project we approached her about an exhibition. Given her talent and passion we knew it would be a visually stunning show. What we didn’t expect were the rich stories that came from the trips, and Anne’s wonderful reflections on personal and professional accomplishment. This exhibition can be enjoyed on so many levels; we are very proud to host it at the SCA throughout the summer.”

Artist Anne Corlett will be at the Saugatuck Center for Arts xxxxxx — Artist Anne Corlett will be at the Saugatuck Center for Arts June 6 to discuss her “Easel on Down the Road” project.

Corlett’s love of painting “en plein air” and her road-warrior appetite combined to make this unique 50-work showcase a truly dazzling display of both the American landscape and one artist’s visionary goal of self-realization through pursuing her passion.

On Monday, June 6, from 7 – 8:30 p.m., Corlett will talk about her “Easel on Down the Road” project as part of the Creativity Reveled series. Interviewed by guest moderator, New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Carey, Corlett will share stories from the road and give guests a sneak preview of the exhibition. She’ll also give a demonstration of landscape painting. The event is free with an online RSVP (go to sc4a.org to register).

Admission to the exhibition is free. Find out more at www.sc4a.org or by calling 269-857-2399.

Two-time Grammy Nominee Matthew Santos appearing at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

August 4, 2016Citizen JournalismGrammy nominated, Matthew Santos, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, sc4aJoanne

Matthew Santos performs at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts Aug. 8.

Two-time Grammy nominee Matthew Santos will perform in the “Summer in the Studio” Concert Series at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, on August 8 at 8 p.m. Hailed for his soulful voice and versatile style, Santos is recognized for his talent by critics and music giants alike. Tickets for the show are $15 and are available at sc4a.org or at 269-857-2399.

Santos tours the world with his “One-Man-Band” show, using multiple pedals along with his unique style of beat-boxing and looping to achieve a massive sound to accompany his soulfully crafted songs and renowned voice. Santos has been recognized for his voice by Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, Jay-Z, John Legend, Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), and Kimbra.

“If I had one word…it would be captivating. It’s not just talent or skill…there’s something more profound there,” said CBS radio Program Director John Sebastian.

In 2008, Santos achieved international success with this collaboration of the song “Superstar” with Lupe Fiasco. The song was nominated for two Grammy awards. The two then opened for Kanye West’s “Glow in the Dark” tour.

Santos has performed world-wide, with appearances on David Letterman, Jimmy Kimmel, and Ellen. He has also performed at Lollapalooza, Coachella, Glastonbury, and Bonaroo and the MTV Video Music Awards.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Matthew to Saugatuck and showcase his talent in our intimate 55-seat performance studio,” said Saugatuck Center for the Arts Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “This show will sell out – grab your tickets while you can!”

The Summer in the Studio Concert Series is sponsored by Carol and Greg Josefowicz. Tickets are available at sc4a.org or by phone at 269-857-2399.

The Great American Trailer Park Musical returns to Mason Street Warehouse

August 4, 2016Citizen Journalism, Entertainmententertainment, Equity Theatre, Mason Street Warehouse, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

“The Great American Trailer Park Musical” is returning to Mason Street Warehouse (MSW) Equity Theatre from Aug. 12 – 28. Back by popular demand, “Trailer Park” debuted on the MSW stage 10 years ago and is the most requested musical in Mason Street’s history. Tickets ($29 – $46) are available online at sc4a.org or by phone at 269-857.2399.

Called “…one of the most laugh-out-load shows in town!” by Broadway.com, the musical takes place in Armadillo Acres, the most exclusive mobile home community in Stark, Florida, where mullets, spray cheese, road kill, hysterical pregnancies and mud flaps reign supreme.

This hilarious comedy follows Pippi, a stripper on the run, who comes between the Dr. Phil-loving, agoraphobic Jeannie and her toll-collector husband, Norbert. Featuring tastefully distasteful songs, witty dialogue, and far-out situations, “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” “is more fun than a chair throwing episode of Jerry Springer set to music!”

Broadway talent is coming to the stage along with MSW “alumni.” Chris Blisset, playing Norbert, comes from New York City and was on the national tour for “Stand by Your Man” twice and was the musical director for this summer’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet.” Alyssa Malger is playing Pickles, and is making her Mason Street Warehouse debut. She performed in the national tour of “Hairspray.” Mary Mossberg, who is playing Betty, was awarded an “Outstanding Individual Performance” award for her role in the musical “What Do Critics Know?” in the New York Musical Theatre Festival and is a proud member of the Actors Equity Association.

“Both Broadway Equity talent and familiar faces are coming back to our stage, and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Executive Director Kristin Armstrong.

The Great American Trailer Park Musical will be at Mason Street Warehouse from Aug. 12 – 28. Tickets are available online, at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts box office, and by phone at 269 857 – 2399.

Mason Street Warehouse is located in the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck.

Saugatuck Center for the Arts goes a little country with next featured artist

July 20, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentAngela Peavey, Annie Sellick, Nashville, Pat Bergeson, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, The BabbasJoanne

The Babbas, a Nashville-based jazz duo, will be performing at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts on July 25 at 8 p.m. as part of the Summer in the Studio concert series. Tickets are $15 each and are available online at www.sc4a.org or at 269-857-2399.

The duo, made up of vocalist Annie Sellick and versatile guitar player Pat Bergeson, are well known for their jazz-based ensembles. However, their music draws on many different styles and features acoustic guitars, harmonicas and some percussion.

Sellick is a highly regarded Nashville-native who enjoyed stardom in her hometown and across the world. She has toured nationally and internationally and has recorded with many notable artists including Joey DeFrancesco, Bela Fleck, and Mark O’Connor.

Bergeson moved to Nashville and has performed alongside Chet Atkins, The Everly Brothers, Dolly Parton, and Waylon Jennings. While in Nashville, Bergeson recorded with other chart-topping artists including Lyle Lovett and Wynonna Judd.

“I love our Summer in the Studio concerts for their intimacy. Annie’s voice has the power to move people – I know concert goers will be knocked out!” said Saugatuck Center for the Arts Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “Together Annie and Pat really create jazz magic.”

The Summer in the Studio series rounds out with two-time Grammy nominee Matthew Santos, and perfectly blended vocals and guitar playing with Drive South. More information can be found at sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

The performance is part of the Summer in the Studio Concert Series sponsored by Carol and Greg Josefowicz. The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is at 400 Culver St., Saugatuck.

Mason Street Warehouse Finds Itself in the Middle of the Hilarious Whodunit that is Murder for Two

July 20, 2016Citizen Journalismentertainment, Equity Theatre, Lakeshore, Mason Street Warehouse, Musical Comedy, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

Mason Street Warehouse continues its 2016 season at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street, Saugatuck) with the hilarious whodunit musical Murder for Two. The show opens Friday, July 22 and runs through August 7. Tickets for adults, seniors, and students are available online at sc4a.org, at the SCA box office, or at 269-857-2399.

New York Times calls the show, “Ingenious! A snazzy double-act that spins out a comic mystery animated by funny, deftly turned songs.”

Murder for Two is the perfect blend of musical comedy and madcap mystery. Every character is a suspect in this witty and winking homage to old-fashioned murder mysteries. 90 minutes, 13 characters, 4 hands and 1 piano make Murder for Two “a giddy romp” (The Philadelphia Inquirer). Don’t miss this killer musical that puts the laughter in manslaughter!

Mason Street Warehouse brings Actors Equity Union talent to West Michigan every summer, and Equity actors Tom Vendafreddo and Brian Walters bring the double-act of Murder for Two to life.

“I saw the show 2 years ago Off Broadway in New York and knew immediately that it would be a great show for Mason Street,” said Artistic Director Kurt Stamm. “It’s the perfect family evening out because the show is appropriate for ages 8 to 80!”

“We’re thrilled to bring Tom and Brian to West Michigan for this wonderful Off-Broadway hit,” said SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “Murder for Two is terrific summer entertainment with these two very talented professionals.”

The acclaimed The Great American Trailer Park Musical wraps up MSW’s sizzling summer lineup. For more information and tickets visit sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399. Tickets are selling as fast as the cast is able to find new suspects – grab yours before they’re gone.

MSW’s summer season is sponsored by Premiere Sponsor G. Thomas Boylan, plus Great Lakes Manor & Cottages, Edward Jones / George Stoutin, Coldwell Banker / Gregg Smith, Shoreline Realtors / Dan & Sandy Shanahan, Mill Pond Realty / Laura Durham, Holland Doctors of Audiology, Hilliard Lyons / Stephen Kiss, Cunningham Dalman, Coldwell Banker / Mike Bojko, Shoreline Realtors / Jim Sellman, Miller Johnson, Lakeshore Allergy / Julie Hutson, Frattallone Wealth Management Group / Carlton Technologies, and the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs.

About the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a more vibrant lakeshore community in West Michigan and beyond. For more information about the SCA and upcoming events, visit www.sc4a.orgor call 269.857.2399.

Creativity Revealed: Exploring the #SofiaDrawsEveryDay Project

July 10, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism#SofiaDrawsEveryDay Project, Creativity Revealed, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Sofia RamirezJoanne

#SofiaDrawsEveryDay Project#SofiaDrawsEveryDay Projec

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, will host a Creativity Revealed program featuring 2016 Artist in Residence Sofia Ramirez Hernandez on July 18 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Hernandez will share the process behind her ambitious project, #SofiaDrawsEveryDay. The event is free to the public with RSVP at www.sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.

The #SofiaDrawsEveryDay project was what Hernandez terms “a non-negotiable daily practice” drawing project begun in 2013. During the project, Hernandez drew more than 900 pieces, of which 300 are on display throughout the summer at the SCA in its “Corridor Series.”

Hernandez embarked on the drawing project when violence and self-destruction were affecting personal relationships and her mental stability. She felt she needed something that would lead to self-accountability, daily productivity, and rediscovering her own self-worth. “On the days I felt totally out of control, sometimes even evil, I could find a gram of pride in sticking to the drawings,” Hernandez says.

Through self-portraits and handwritten confessions, these hand-drawn diaries document her relapses into abuse, her will to fight her own tendencies, struggles with responsibility, the trials of treatment, and the good times, too.

“This is more than a simple exhibition, it’s a personal journey,” said Kristin Armstrong, executive director at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. “We are very fortunate that Sofia is willing to share this intimate experience with our community. We’re especially eager for young people to see her drawing and be inspired by Sophia’s creativity and tenacity.”

During the Creativity Revealed program Hernandez will discuss her work as a West Michigan-based Mexican female artist creating works that contemplate language, duality, environment and sisterhood. She’ll also talk about her involvement with the SCA’s Growing Young Artists program with migrant students. And, she’ll perform some of her prose poetry and encourage the audience to write short pieces of their own.

Follow Hernandez on Instagram at @SofiaDrawsEveryDay or on her Tumblr page, using #sofiadrawseveryday.

New West Guitar Group opens Saugatuck Center for the Arts summer concert series

July 8, 20163-bottom, EntertainmentJohn Storie, New West Guitar Group, Perry Smith, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Summer in the Studio, Will BrahmJoanne

The New West Guitar Group features John Storie, Perry Smith and Will Brahm.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Summer in the Studio series kicks off with the acclaimed New West Guitar Group, a jazz-based guitar trio, on July 11 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 and available online at sc4a.org or at 269-857-2399.

The New West Guitar Group is a dynamic trio. John Storie, Perry Smith and Will Brahm, formed the group at the University of Southern California’s Thorton School of Music in 2003. They play a wide range of styles from classic jazz songs to imaginative arrangement of pop songs to their own diverse originals.

The group’s distinct sound is achieved through combined acoustic and electric guitars, which highlight different rhythms and tones within the group’s music. The Seattle Times praised their sound, calling it “sharp and refined.” Vintage Guitar Magazine also praised New West Guitar Group saying, “The group’s creativity in not being afraid to stretch boundaries is helping to forge a new area of music that should inspire other guitarists…”

New West Guitar Group has released five instrumental albums within the last 10 years. Each album features their unique laid-back style and expert music arrangement. Their music is regularly featured on NPR and jazz radio stations.

The SCA’s Summer in the Studio concert series, sponsored by Carol and Greg Josefowicz, also features The Babbas, Matthew Santos, and Drive South. Saugatuck Center for the Arts is located at 400 Culver Ave., Saugatuck.

Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ ‘Creative Revealed’ features artists from Ox-Bow School of Art

July 7, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, EntertainmentClarie Ashley, Creativity Revealed, Ox-Bow, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Surabhi GhoshJoanne

Artist Surabhi Ghosh speaks xxxx — Artist Surabhi Ghosh is part of the “Creativity Revealed: Ox-Bow Edition” program set for July 14.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is hosting two “Creativity Revealed: Ox-Bow Edition” programs in July featuring faculty members from Saugatuck’s Ox-Bow School of Art. The first program takes place on at 7 p.m. on July 14 and features Ox-Bow faculty member and artist Surabhi Ghosh. The second program takes place at 7 p.m. on July 28 and features faculty member and artist Claire Ashley. Both events are free with RSVP at www.sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Ox-Bow for the second summer,” said SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “The ‘Creativity Revealed: Ox-Bow Edition’ programs give the public opportunities to meet and learn from some wonderful, award winning visiting faculty members. If you’re interested in design, three-dimensional art, drawing, fiber or simply meeting inspirational, creative people you will love these programs!”

Ghosh, who is featured in the July 14 ‘Creativity Revealed,’ works with drawing, installation, and textiles inspired by ongoing research into patterning, abstraction, and cultural narratives. She will discuss her drawing, installation and textile works and give a hands-on demonstration on repetition and pattern, using print.

Artist Claire Ashley is part of the "Creativity Revealed: Ox-Bow Edition" program set for July 28. — Artist Claire Ashley is part of the “Creativity Revealed: Ox-Bow Edition” program set for July 28.

The July 28 program will feature Claire Ashley. Ashley is from Edinburgh, Scotland, and currently teaches at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Her work investigates inflatables as painting, sculpture, installation and performance costume. Ashley will discuss her inspiration and creative process and give a hands-on demonstration on color, sculpture, and clay.

Discover more about Surabhi Ghosh at: http://surabhighosh.com/. Claire Ashley’s work is featured on: http://claireashley.com/home.html

Founded in 1914, Ox-Bow offers a wide range of opportunities for artists at all stages in their career. Through its affiliation with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Ox-Bow offers one and two-week courses for credit and non-credit for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students. Ox-Bow’s faculty come from across the nation and world to teach during the summer program.

Creativity Revealed: Exploring the #SofiaDrawsEveryDay Project

July 1, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Non-ProfitsSaugatuck Center for the Arts, Sophia Hernandez, SophiadrawseverydayJoanne

By: Angela Peavey

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street) will host a Creativity Revealed program featuring 2016 Artist in Residence Sofia Ramirez Hernandez on July 18 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Hernandez will share the process behind her ambitious project, #SofiaDrawsEveryDay. The event is free to the public with RSVP at www.sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.

“This is more than a simple exhibition, it’s a personal journey,” said Kristin Armstrong, Executive Director at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. “We are very fortunate that Sofia is willing to share this intimate experience with our community. We’re especially eager for young people to see her drawing and be inspired by Sophia’s creativity and tenacity.”

During the Creativity Revealed program Hernandez will discuss her work as a West Michigan based Mexican female artist creating works that contemplate language, duality, environment and sisterhood. She’ll also talk about her involvement with the SCA’s Growing Young Artists program with migrant students. And, she’ll perform some of her prose poetry and encourage the audience to write short pieces of their own.

Follow Hernandez on Instagram at @SofiaDrawsEveryDay or on her Tumblr page, using #sofiadrawseveryday.

About the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

Saugatuck Center for the Arts pulls a few political punches with ‘Capitol Steps’

June 24, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, EntertainmentCapitol Steps, Democrat, political humor, Republican, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

Just in time for July 4, Capitol Steps comes to the Saugatuck Center for the Art.s — Kick off your July 4 celebration with a little political satire from ‘Capitol Steps’, which makes a stop at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts July 3.

Spend ‘An Evening with the Capitol Steps’ as they bring their sizzling political comedy to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. On Sunday, July 3, at 8 p.m., the Capitol Steps take aim at both sides of the political aisle with their deliciously funny political satire. Tickets are $41 in advance or $43 at the door and can be purchased online at sc4a.org or call 269.857.2399.

Just in time for this fall’s presidential election, the troupe brings its current-event focused humor to the SCA’s boutique theatre. These former Capitol Hill staffers set out more than 30 years ago to satirize the very people and places that employed them. The Steps were born in December 1981 when some staffers for Senator Charles Percy were planning entertainment for a Christmas party. Ronald Reagan was president when the Steps began, so co-founders Elaina Newport, Bill Strauss and Jim Aidala figured that if entertainers could become politicians, then politicians could become entertainers!

“The Capitol Steps are all about timing — political timing, comedic timing, and the timing it takes to write satire that’s right on top of the latest news, scandals, and polls,” wrote the Washington Post.

Since they began, the Capitol Steps have recorded more than 34 albums and have been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, PBS, and can be heard twice a year on National Public Radio. The group creates parodies and skits based on relevant topics after digging into political headlines.

Most cast members have worked on Capitol Hill; some for Democrats, some for Republicans, and others for politicians who firmly straddle the fence. No matter who holds office, there’s never a shortage of material. Troupe member Elaina Newport said “Typically the Republicans goof up, and the Democrats party. Then the Democrats goof up and the Republicans party. That’s what we call the two-party system.”

For information and tickets contact the SCA box office at 269.857.2399 or sc4a.org.

WKTV airs Saugatuck Short Film Festival in support of this year’s call for entries

April 25, 20163-bottom, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, WKTV ProjectsAngela Peavey, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck Short Film Festival, SCA, WKTVJoanne

Last year's Saugatuck xxxxxxxx — Last year’s Saugatuck Short Film Festival will be aired on WKTV this week.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck, is calling all filmmakers to submit their short films to the fourth annual Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition.

This year marks the fourth year of the Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ (SCA) film competition, where professional and student filmmakers will compete for $2,500 worth of cash prizes for their short films—five minutes or less—that feature some sort of Michigan flavor. Student submissions (high school students and younger) are free, and adults (college and up) are $20 per entry. Video projects by schools, clubs, and religious organizations are encouraged to enter. Registration for Saugatuck Shorts is open now until Oct, 9, and can be completed at sc4a.org.

“Over the past three years, the SCA’s Saugatuck Shorts competition has brought in filmmakers from across the state for a wonderful night of engaging entertainment on the big screen,” said SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “The competition is a great way for students and professionals alike to get their work in front of the community. We are very excited to bring this special competition back!”

Saugatuck Shorts is the only film competition in West Michigan that offers a cash prize for film submissions in a juried category and an audience favorite. Similar to ArtPrize, a panel of judges will choose the top ten shorts to be shown on screening night. Of those top ten, a winner from the student and from the adult category will be chosen. The student winner will be awarded $500 and the adult winner, $1,000. On screening night, after the audience has viewed all ten shorts, they will cast their votes for the “Audience Favorite” which will be awarded another $1,000.

This year’s competition also marks the second year that the SCA will partner with Wyoming-Kentwood Television (WKTV) to promote Saugatuck Shorts. In addition to the station coming to the event to broadcast it live, WKTV will also feature the top ten juried films on their station.

WKTV will be airing last year’s 3rd Annual Saugatuck Shorts Film Festival Tuesday, April 26, at 9 p.m. and again Saturday, April 30 at 10 p.m. on Comcast, channel 25.

WKTV is a community television station located at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW. WKTV is one of the oldest community television stations in the country that is still in operation, celebrating 40 years in 2014. More information about WKTV can be found here.

Alina Kiryayeva opens the Hempy Keyboard Series at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts

January 21, 2016Recreation, Upcoming EventsAlina Kiryayeva, Angela Peavey, Moving Pictures, Saugatuck Center for the ArtsJoanne

Praised for her powerful command of the piano, unique interpretations, and clarity of sound, international performance artist Alina Kiryayeva will open up the Hempy Keyboard Series this Sunday, January 24th, at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.

Kiryayeva treats listeners to her “Moving Pictures” program based on the classical music found in famous cartoons including works by Chopin, Liszt, Rimsky-Korsakov, Beethoven and much more.

Kiryayeva, a native of Ukraine, performed her first solo recital at age 8 and her first solo debut with an orchestra at the age 11. She was the first prize winner of the Senigallia International Competition, Italy. Kiryayveva has also claimed prizes in several international piano competitions in the USA, including the Grace Welsh International Competition and the California Young Artist International Competition. She is one of the few classical pianists to complete both a Bachelors and a Master’s degree at The Julliard School of Music on full scholarship.

“Moving Pictures” has received rave reviews. According to The Imperial Valley Press (California), “Kiryayeva’s every phrase shone through with crystal clarity, the piano sang to the audience under her delicate touch.”

Kiryayeva has toured globally and brought her musical magic to Ukraine, Russia, Mexico, France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Holland, and Japan. Recently she performed with the Kharkov State Philharmonic and State Opera Theatre Orchestras, The Imperial Valley Symphony orchestra and New York Symphonic Ensemble Orchestra.

The SCA’s Hempy Keyboard Series is sponsored by Rex Hempy, Alan McPhail, Friends of Amity Meadows, and the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs.

The show will start at 2:00 p.m. at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street). General admission is $10 for Adults; students 18 & younger are free.

Sundance Favorite “Best of Enemies” next up in SCA’s Real to Reel Series

November 16, 2015Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming EventsBest of Enemies, Real to Reel, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCAJoanne

Featured at the Sundance Film Festival and slated as a contender for the 2015 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Best of Enemies is up next in the Real to Reel series at Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street) Thursday, November 19, 7:00 p.m.

The New York Post calls the film, “wickedly entertaining,” and Rolling Stone says, “modern television starts here.”

In the summer of 1968, television news changed forever. Dead last in the ratings, ABC hired two towering public intellectuals to debate each other during the Democratic and Republican national conventions. William F. Buckley, Jr. was a leading light of the new conservative movement. A Democrat and cousin to Jackie Onassis, Gore Vidal was a leftist novelist and polemicist.

Armed with deep-seated distrust and enmity, Vidal and Buckley believed each others political ideologies were dangerous for America. Like rounds in a heavyweight battle, they pummeled out policy and personal insult – cementing their opposing political positions. Their explosive exchanges devolved into vitriolic name-calling. It was unlike anything TV had ever broadcast, and all the more shocking because it was live and unscripted. Viewers were riveted. ABC News’ ratings skyrocketed. And a new era in public discourse was born – a highbrow blood sport that marked the dawn of pundit television as we know it today.

Click here to see the official trailer.

General admission is $5/Members; $7/Future Members.

Top Ten Finalists Announced in Saugatuck Shorts Competition

October 30, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projectsfinalists, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCA Saugatuck Shorts, short film, top tenJoanne

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts announced the top ten final films for its 2015 Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. A panel of judges from the entertainment industry scored all entries, whittling the field down to five films in the student category and five in the adult category.

The top ten short films will be screened at the award ceremony at the SCA on Saturday, November 7 at 6:30p.m.

This year’s top ten short films are a mix of cinematic drama, comedy, and lifestyle stories. The films are all under five minutes and each has a “Michigan-flavor” (filmed in Michigan, filmmaker hails from Michigan, story line about Michigan, etc.). At the November 7th screening the winner of the juried student film will receive a $500 prize, the juried adult category winner will receive a $1,000 prize, and the audience will vote on its favorite film for an additional $1,000 prize.

Finalists in the student category include filmmaker Jared Friedrich from Aurora, Illinois. Friedrich’s film James Cagney Junior is a comedic look at the art of storytelling with subtle references to work by the late actor James Cagney.

From Holland, Michigan comes the film People Like Us by CultureWorks’ Legendary League of Leaders exploring the tremendous challenges of teen mental illness. Holland Christian student Ben Eizenga created the short film Ben there. Done that. highlighting the little moments that make up a day in his life.

Dario Lirio, of Hudsonville High School, submitted Grand Rapids Junior Rowing, showing the team’s hard work and spirit. Mitchell Ross created We Are Hudsonville, Michigan, a short film highlighting the Hudsonville community, specifically referencing the Hudsonville Football program and their “Eagle Pride.”

The winners in this year’s adult category are all West Michigan locals. Alex Bolen is a Grand Rapids native and the owner of Opensail Production Company who made the top ten with his film Sleeping Bear Dunes, a time-lapse of the dunes and surrounding area shot over the course of a week.

Zachary Clark of Clark|Camera|Cinema created the film Lay with Love, a dramatic interpretation of the song “Lay with Love” by fellow Kalamazoo-based band The Go Rounds.

From Grayling, Michigan comes filmmaker Nicholas Gascho with the film Locked. The short film was conceived and shot in 60 hours and tells the tale of a family social issue.

Ron Lechler’s (Fennville, Michigan) top ten film explores how people use comedy and humor to overcome the hurt in their lives in his short film The Best Medicine.

The Outdoor Discovery Center (Executive Director Travis Williams) of Holland, Michigan made the top ten with its film Little Hawks Discovery Preschool about the Hamilton Community Schools’ nature-based preschool.

“It’s always an exciting event, particularly since the winners go home with generous cash prizes” said Kristin Armstrong, SCA Executive Director. “Plus, this year’s media partnership with WKTV is really going to make people feel like stars. The station’s mobile unit will be on site getting all the action – it’s really going to be an exciting evening of media magic.”

Tickets to Saugatuck Shorts are $20 for adults and $10 for students and include light appetizers and the chance to cast your vote for the “Audience Favorite” Award at the show. A cash bar is available from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. with the screenings begining at 7:15 p.m. More information and tickets can be found at sc4a.org or at 269-857-2399.

Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition Announces Judges and Sponsors

October 15, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV ProjectsAnthony Griffen, Curt Anderson, Doug Remtema, Elizabeth Merriman, Joel Paul Reisig, Joseph Voss, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCA Saugatuck ShortsJoanne

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is shining a spotlight on Michigan film with the help of filmmakers and industry professionals who will be judging this year’s Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. The 2015 panel of judges is made up of six individuals who will decide the winners of the $2,500 cash prize in the student and adult categories.

The Saugatuck Shorts competition is accepting admissions until Friday, October 16; the public screening will take place on November 7 at the SCA.

Judges for this year’s competition include a mix of independent filmmakers, a film professor, and an entertainment lawyer. The judges were chosen based on their familiarity with the entertainment industry and their ability to provide credible, constructive feedback.

The first filmmaker taking the judge’s seat is Joel Paul Reisig. Joel is the owner of Be Your Own Hollywood, a two-day film school that focuses on financing, distributing, and shooting films on a budget. Reisig has produced films such as American Scream King, Fraternity House, and Deadly Karma. With over two decades of producing and acting experience, Reisig has worked with stars Dean Cain, Dustin Diamond, Richard Karn, and more.

Co-founder of the Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival and owner of UnSAFE Film Office, Anthony Griffin, will be another judge for this year’s competition. UnSAFE Film Office has produced and shot multiple documentaries, short films, music videos, and commercials over the last decade and Griffin has served on the board for the West Michigan Video and Film Alliance and the Grand Rapids Community Media Center.

Compass College of Cinematic Arts alumni relations specialist and producer, Elizabeth Merriman, will also be serving as a judge on this year’s panel. Merriman is a graduate of Compass College of Cinematic Arts and also owns and operates her own production company, Happy Hats LLC.

Doug Remtema of Sonlight Films will also be serving as a judge at this year’s competition. Remtema started Sonlight Films in 2003 and works on producing films and television shows that revolve around positive and uplifting material.

Curt Anderson of Pine Creek Films. Pine Creek Films is a non-profit organization in Byron Center, Michigan that is dedicated to empowering amateur filmmakers by getting them involved in filmmaking.

The sixth and final judge for this year’s competition is Clark Hill attorney Joseph Voss. Voss leads the Entertainment Industry Team at Clark Hill where he represents the financing parties for film and television productions.

“We couldn’t ask for a greater group of people,” said SCA Marketing and Sales Director, Angela Peavey. ”Film is one of my passions, and to see these professionals willing to offer their time and talents is absolutely amazing. We’re very fortunate to have them.”

Peavey also announced sponsors for this year’s film competition. “We are thrilled to welcome the West Michigan Film and Media Office as a Gold Sponsor and the West Michigan Film and Video Alliance as a Bronze Sponsor. We’re also working with media sponsor WKTV.”

The Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition will take place on November 7, 2015 with a cash bar at 6:30 p.m. and the screening beginning at 7:15 p.m. More information and ticket purchases can be made at sc4a.org or by calling 269.857.2399.

SCA’s Real to Reel Series Features an Oscar Nomination

October 12, 2015Local Entertainment, Movie Review, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsReal to Reel Series, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Sebastião Salgado, The Salt of the EarthJoanne

The Oscar nominated documentary The Salt of the Earth is coming to the big screen at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street) on Thursday, October 15, at 7:00 p.m. The documentary is being shown as part of the Real to Reel Series.

For the last 40 years the photographer Sebastião Salgado has been travelling through the earth’s continents, in the footsteps of an ever-changing humanity. He has witnessed some of the major events of our recent history; international conflicts, starvation and exodus.

From stunning images of the gold mines of Serra Pelada (“I had travelled to the dawn of time”), to the horrors of famine in the Sahel and genocide in Rwanda (“We humans are a terrible animal… our history is a history of war”), and ultimately to the rebirth of the “Genesis” project, The Salt of the Earth finds Salgado revisiting and confronting his turbulent past.

In this lush, moving film Juliano Ribeiro Salgado and Wim Wenders co-direct a look at the career of Juliano’s father, Sebastião, as he embarks on the discovery of pristine territories, of wild fauna and flora, and of grandiose landscapes as part of a huge photographic project which is a tribute to the planet’s beauty.

Juliano says the film, “tells the story of an entire cycle, of a living land that dies and is then reborn. That is also more or less the story of Sebastião, who reached a breaking point and had to reinvent himself, so it was a very powerful thing. And to tell the truth, we only realized that in the editing room.”

The Salt of the Earth was named as an official selection at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and the 2014 Telluride Film Festival. General admission is $5/Members; $7/Future Members.

WKTV partners with SCA for Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition

October 2, 2015Education, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV ProjectsFilm contest, Saugatuck, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCA Saugatuck Shorts, WKTVJoanne

Crave a sliver of the limelight? If you’re a Michigan filmmaker, here’s your chance to win big and have your film aired on Television.

Deadline to enter is October 16.

For the first time, Wyoming Kentwood Community Television and Media (WKTV) is teaming with the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA), at this year’s Third Annual Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. Professional and student filmmakers are invited to compete for $2,500 in cash prizes for their short films.

Films must be five minutes or less (including credits and fade time) and each film must have a Michigan ‘flavor’ (made in Michigan, filmmaker from Michigan, Michigan mentioned in the script, etc.).

“This is an exciting new partnership for Saugatuck Shorts,” said Kristin Armstrong, Executive Director of the SCA. “WKTV’s mission is to educate the community about how to create video content; through Saugatuck Shorts we are providing the station with an exciting outlet to highlight Michigan video. We couldn’t be happier to work alongside WKTV’s talented professionals and volunteers.”

For individuals entering the competition, another benefit of the WKTV partnership is the chance to be featured on the station. WKTV will broadcast the top ten juried films after they’re announced in late October.

“We thought this would be a great way to celebrate making the top ten,” said WKTV Executive Director, Tom Norton. “We’re giving those ten people just another sliver of limelight to get them excited for the live audience screening on Saugatuck Shorts’ night.”

In addition, there will be a live broadcast of the November 7 event on WKTV. For those living in Wyoming, Kentwood, or Gaines Township, the station’s programming is on Channel 25.

Student submissions (high school students and younger) are free, and adults (college and up) are $15.00 per entry. Video projects by schools, clubs, and religious organizations are eligible to enter. Registration for Saugatuck Shorts has been extended to October 16 and can be completed online.

Registration information and questions regarding Saugatuck Shorts can be found here or by calling 269.857.2399.

WKTV, which celebrated 40 years in 2014, is one of the oldest community television stations in the country still in operation. The station is located at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. in Wyoming, Mich.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more vibrant lakeshore community in West Michigan and beyond. For more information about the SCA and upcoming events, visit SCA’s website or call 269.857.2399.

Longing for a place to screen your short?

September 22, 2015Local Entertainment, Movie Review, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming EventsCash Prizes for Film Shorts, Film shorts competition, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, SCA Saugatuck ShortsJoanne

How about winning up to $1,000 on top of the excitement of seeing your film short (five minutes or less) on a big screen? If those are the kind of thrills you seek, the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA) has just the contest for you. The SCA is registering filmmakers for the third annual “Saugatuck Shorts” film competition. Registration is open now until October 9th, and can be completed online at the link below. Winners will be screened on November 7, 2015 at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck.

If you’re young enough, your entry is free. However, keep in mind your short has to include some sort of Michigan “flavor,” whether the film is set in Michigan or simply contains a reference to a unique Michigan feature such as “Yoopers.”

The two basic filmmaker categories come with different entry fees:

Student—Age 18 and Under; Film Entries are Free
Adult—Age 19 and Up; Film Entries $15.00

“Saugatuck Shorts” is the only film competition in West Michigan that offers a cash prize for short film submissions in three categories: one for adults and one for students where winners are determined by a panel of judges; those ten shorts will be shown at the November screening of “Saugatuck Shorts.” A separate prize will be awarded at the end of the evening to recognize the “Audience Favorite” out of both juried categories. Winner of the “Audience Favorite Prize” will be awarded $1,000. Another $1,000 prize will be awarded to the Adult Winner and $500 goes to the Student Winner.

“Over the past three years, the SCA’s “Saugatuck Shorts” competition has brought in filmmakers from across the state for a wonderful night of engaging entertainment on the big screen,” said Kristin Armstrong, SCA Executive Director. “The competition is a great way for students and professionals alike to get their work in front of the community. We are very excited to bring this special competition back!”