Join us in an artful celebration of the cuddliest cows on the farm- Highland Cattle! Held in partnership with Just Fab Farms, instructor Deborah Clark will guide us in painting a 16×20 canvas in acrylic with our favorite fluffy friends as models. Painters will have the chance to meet and pet the resident cattle as well. We will work from the shade of a tree and have pop-up tents available if needed. All art supplies will be provided, but participants should bring a camp chair, water, sunblock, and bug spray if needed.

This workshop will be held from 10 am-1 pm on Saturday, July 19, at Just Fab Farms at 475 S. Meridian Rd in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: all ages

Join us for a unique and relaxed evening of creativity at our Creative Happy Hour! Intended to provide an open studio opportunity to get together with friends or like-minded artists, Creative Happy Hour is a weekly open studio session with a rotating media schedule.

On the third Friday of each month, you'll have the freedom to weave your words into something magical while working on your own writing projects—whether that’s poetry, short stories, personal essays, or even starting that novel you've been dreaming about. You’ll have access to prompts and exercises designed to spark your creativity, along with the support of a friendly group leader who’s there to offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement whenever you need it.

Join us from 5-8 pm, Friday, July 18 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway St. in Mt. Pleasant.

Bring your favorite drink and snacks, and enjoy the company of fellow writers while sharing ideas and discovering new ways to approach your craft. The atmosphere is all about relaxation and creativity—no deadlines, no stress, just pure creative expression and a place to explore your creative writing in a fun, low-pressure environment.

Whether you’re looking to refine your writing, break through a creative block, or simply enjoy a creative evening with others, this is the space for you. All experience levels are welcome, and you’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment, inspiration, and maybe even a few new writing friends. Come for the writing, stay for the good vibes!

Discover the natural beauty of our hometown Fabiano Botanical Gardens, while exploring the art of watercolor painting in this inspiring outdoor class. Led by instructor Cheryl Meyer, this plein air watercolor class offers hands-on instruction in painting directly from life amidst the vibrant flora, tranquil water features, and seasonal blooms of one of CMU’s most picturesque locations.

Students will practice how to capture light, atmosphere, and natural forms in the open air while building composition and observational skills tailored to outdoor painting. Some basic watercolor experience is helpful. Students should bring a camp chair, preferably with a cup holder, as well as water, sunscreen, and dress for the weather. All painting supplies will be provided, but you may bring a watercolor palette and pad if you have one.

This class will be held from 9 am-12 pm on Friday, July 18, at the CMU Fabiano Botanical Gardens. Class will meet at the gazebo. Metered parking, using the Pango mobile app, is available in lots 15, 10, and 36. Otherwise, students may purchase guest passes online at www.parking.cmich.edu

Recommended age: 16 and up

Whimsical Watercolors is a series for young artists to enjoy the charm and freedom of watercolors. Each month, students will be guided step-by-step in creating their version of fun and playful images. Classes are on the third Thursday of each month.

The class will be held from 5:30-7 pm on Thursday, July 17 in the Brannan Family Meeting Room at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI.

Recommended age: 6 and up

Garden enthusiasts will discover a new way to include the elegance of florals in their artistry.  Instructor Deborah Clark leads this two-week course, discovering the beauty and versatility of gel plate printmaking.  Showcasing flowers and various plant materials, students will explore techniques to create layers, textures, and vivid imagery by monoprinting with gelatin plates.  Every print is unique, and opportunities for happy accidents abound! In the second week, students will utilize the resulting art papers and prints to create unique collage artworks. All supplies are provided, along with a beautiful assortment of florals to incorporate into the prints. Beginners are welcome!

The 2-week course will be held from 5:30-8 pm on Wednesday, July 16 & 23 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 14 and up

Join instructor Cheryl Meyer in a 3-week introduction to the artistry of watercolor painting. This course covers watercolor basics, including exploring different papers, various brushstrokes and techniques, color theory, and mixing colors. This class will also cover hard versus soft edges, wet on wet, wet on dry, pouring, glazing, spritzing, & masking techniques. Students will experiment with these techniques and begin their journey into watercolors. No experience needed. All supplies are provided.

This 3-week course will be held from 2-4 pm Wednesdays, July 9-23, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt Pleasant, MI.

Recommended age: 16 and up

Learn to express yourself through writing with instructor Cheryl Meyer. This 3-week short story course will guide you through the essentials of crafting compelling short stories, from initial concept to polished final draft. We will cover the basics of characterization, setting, plot, tone, and diction. Students will be provided with prompts to use for writing exercises, discussions, and workshops in the following sessions. Students will create and enhance written pieces, crafting a character-driven story. All levels of experience and ability are welcome.

This 3-week course takes place from 11 am-1 pm, Wednesday, July 9-23, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant

Recommended age: 16 and up

Toddlers (and parents!) are invited to join us for Wee Wednesdays! Wee Wednesdays is a bi-monthly program held from 10 to 11 am on the first and third Wednesday of the month. During each session, wee ones will gain art, reading, critical thinking, and tactile development skills. Each session will be a new project created on-site for your little ones to take home and enjoy!

The program starts at 10 am, Wednesday, July 16, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Join us for some creative summer fun at our fifth annual Family Art Camp at Coldwater Lake this July!

Activities include arts and crafts for all ages, tie-dying t-shirts, adult workshops, family games, campfires, and more!  A responsible adult must accompany their children to the camp. Youth and family projects will be held at the Lakeview Pavilion.

Participants are not required to camp overnight and are welcome to participate in daily activities only. The Art Camp registration is $70 for an individual or $200 for a family up to 4. Activities will get started at 6 pm on Monday, July 14 and checkout is at 11 am on Wednesday, July 16.

Note: This does not include campsite registration. Overnight camping can be reserved through the Isabella County Parks & Recreation department HERE.

Reserve your campsite and your Art Camp spot as soon as possible, as campsites and cabins are not guaranteed to be available!

*Family price includes up to 4 members of the same household or family only.  Additional participants may be added at the individual rate.

*Registrations made after July 1 will not be guaranteed a commemorative T-shirt to tie dye.

This 3 day camp will be held from 6 pm on July 14 to 11 am July 16, 2025 at the Lakeview Pavilion at Coldwater Lake Family Park at 1703 N. Littlefield Rd. in Weidman, MI

Recommended age: all ages

Aspiring teenage writers are invited to join instructor Tanya Ehrsam for an exploration of three forms of poetry. We'll explore free verse, pantoum, and villanelle poetry formats. We will explore rhyme scheme, meter, and find ways to incorporate concrete imagery to build your poetry muscles. Learn what makes a poem stronger and more visually appealing, as well as explore forms you may not have practiced. Come explore new worlds of verse and find the release of exploring your own verbal gifts.

This 3-week course takes place from 1-4 pm on Tuesdays, July 15-29, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant

Recommended age: 14 and up

Join us for some creative summer fun at our fifth annual Family Art Camp at Coldwater Lake this July!

Activities include arts and crafts for all ages, tie-dying t-shirts, adult workshops, family games, campfires, and more!  A responsible adult must accompany their children to the camp. Youth and family projects will be held at the Lakeview Pavilion.

Participants are not required to camp overnight and are welcome to participate in daily activities only. The Art Camp registration is $70 for an individual or $200 for a family up to 4. Activities will get started at 6 pm on Monday, July 14 and checkout is at 11 am on Wednesday, July 16.

Note: This does not include campsite registration. Overnight camping can be reserved through the Isabella County Parks & Recreation department HERE.

Reserve your campsite and your Art Camp spot as soon as possible, as campsites and cabins are not guaranteed to be available!

*Family price includes up to 4 members of the same household or family only.  Additional participants may be added at the individual rate.

*Registrations made after July 1 will not be guaranteed a commemorative T-shirt to tie dye.

This 3 day camp will be held from 6 pm on July 14 to 11 am July 16, 2025 at the Lakeview Pavilion at Coldwater Lake Family Park at 1703 N. Littlefield Rd. in Weidman, MI

Recommended age: all ages

Join us for some creative summer fun at our fifth annual Family Art Camp at Coldwater Lake this July!

Activities include arts and crafts for all ages, tie-dying t-shirts, adult workshops, family games, campfires, and more!  A responsible adult must accompany their children to the camp. Youth and family projects will be held at the Lakeview Pavilion.

Participants are not required to camp overnight and are welcome to participate in daily activities only. The Art Camp registration is $70 for an individual or $200 for a family up to 4. Activities will get started at 6 pm on Monday, July 14 and checkout is at 11 am on Wednesday, July 16.

Note: This does not include campsite registration. Overnight camping can be reserved through the Isabella County Parks & Recreation department HERE.

Reserve your campsite and your Art Camp spot as soon as possible, as campsites and cabins are not guaranteed to be available!

*Family price includes up to 4 members of the same household or family only.  Additional participants may be added at the individual rate.

*Registrations made after July 1 will not be guaranteed a commemorative T-shirt to tie dye.

This 3 day camp will be held from 6 pm on July 14 to 11 am July 16, 2025 at the Lakeview Pavilion at Coldwater Lake Family Park at 1703 N. Littlefield Rd. in Weidman, MI

Recommended age: all ages

Celebrate summer with color, creativity, and a flock of feathered inspiration! Led by instructor Cheryl Meyer, you’ll focus on capturing the charm, movement, and personality of birds through expressive painting techniques. Each week in this 4 session course will feature a different feathered friend and this class will guide you in bringing them to life on paper.

Perfect for beginner to intermediate artists, we’ll explore watercolor fundamentals—such as wet-on-wet, layering, and texture—while also learning how to sketch dynamic bird forms, render feathers, and create harmonious backgrounds.

Join us this July for a refreshing, nature-inspired artistic journey—because this month, it’s all about the birds!

The class will be held weekly from 2-5 pm on Mondays, July 7-28 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI. You may select individual classes or enroll in the series for a discounted rate!

July 7- Sandhill Cranes

July 14- Warblers

July 21- Orioles

July 28- Hummingbirds

Recommended age: 16 and up

Join instructor Matthew Grimmer in learning some of the techniques used by the "old masters."
He will discuss using safe materials and natural alternatives to harmful products. Students will each make their own "water-washed linseed oil" using a technique involving flaxseed oil, salt, and water, which the students can take home. Lastly, you will learn to mix and utilize skim milk in your oil painting as an alternative to paint thinner. While learning these techniques, students will practice on a still-life painting in order to demonstrate the said techniques. The workshop is open to all experience levels.

This workshop takes place from 10 am-12 pm on Saturday, July 12, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant

Recommended age: 16 and up

Join instructor Amy Perschbacher for a night of disco fever! Students will learn some of the iconic moves of the ‘70s, including the Hustle. If you don’t have dance experience, that’s ok; dancers of all skill levels are welcome! Come as a couple, come as a single, or with friends for a night out.

This workshop will be held from 6-7:30 pm on Friday, July 11, in the Morey Family Gallery at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 16 and up

Join us for a unique and relaxed evening of creativity at our Creative Happy Hour! Intended to provide an open studio opportunity to get together with friends or like-minded artists, Creative Happy Hour is a weekly open studio session with a rotating media schedule.

On the second Friday of each month, you’re invited to come work on your fiber art projects—be it knitting, crocheting, weaving, or any other textile craft. Bring your current project or start something new with a group of other fiber artists. The goal is to have fun, experiment, and let your creativity flow freely.

Join us from 5-8 pm, Friday, July 11, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway St. in Mt. Pleasant.

Bring your favorite drink and snacks, engage in friendly conversation, creativity, and connection, and work at your own pace. You bring your own supplies, but non-consumable tools are available for use.

It’s the perfect way to relax, meet new people, and find the space and encouragement to explore your craft. Come for the art, stay for the good vibes!

Recommended for adults

Club Create is a Michigan Arts Access program for adults with disabilities. Club Create provides opportunities for adults with disabilities to have hands-on experiences in the arts provided by professional artists. Club members participate in an art experience at each meeting, as well as have time to socialize with other club members. Club Create of Mid Michigan meets 5:30-7 pm on the second Thursday of each month. Caregivers are welcome to participate as well.

Club Create of Mid Michigan members will meet from 5:30 pm-7 pm, Thursday, July 10, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Explore the rich, tactile world of cold wax painting in this workshop series designed for artists of all levels. Instructor Judith Steffke will guide you in utilizing oil paint and cold wax medium to create layered, expressive, and deeply textured artworks. Cold wax is a soft, buttery medium that mixes with oil paint to create a matte, velvety finish and allows for endless experimentation with layering, mark-making, and surface manipulation. This class is all about process and exploration and is suitable for abstract or representative artwork. All supplies provided.

Each session will explore different subjects:

July 10: Lemons & Strawberries

July 23: Seascape with Rocks (1-3 pm)

July 30: Florals

This workshop will be held from 3-5 pm on Thursday, July 10, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended ages: Adults only

Join instructor Tanya Ehrsam for a two-part workshop featuring one-of-a-kind dyed fabrics pieced into a fanciful mandala. Students will spend the first session learning the dyeing process and utilizing fiber-reactive procion dye to capture brilliant, saturated color on their quilting fabrics. Students will be provided with rinsing and cutting instructions for the following session.

Students will piece and assemble their quilt top the following week in a mandala pattern. The finished three-yard quilt top will be ready to layer, bind, and quilt at home for the finishing touch. Dye, patterns, and instructions will be provided. Students will be responsible for bringing fabric to the first session to dye, as well as a sewing machine and coordinating thread. If you do not have a machine, please reach out to Art Reach, and we may be able to provide one.

This workshop will be held from 12-2 pm on Thursday, July 10, and 12-4 pm on Thursday, July 17, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 16 and up

This is a continuation of the drawing series by instructor Julie Tyslicky. The Fundamentals of Drawing 3 utilizes assignments to help you start to develop your own drawing style by building on the skills learned in classes 1 and 2. Students will learn how to choose a subject matter through assignments meant to challenge you to think creatively. Design and composition are talked about more, as well as our constant challenge of truly observing what we actually see instead of what we think we see.

This 12-week course takes place 6:30-9 pm, Wednesdays, April 23-July 9 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: Adults only

Mini Masters is a delightful monthly acrylic painting class designed to inspire creativity in artists of all skill levels. With step-by-step guidance, participants will create an 8x10 canvas masterpiece to take home. Perfect for beginners, this class offers a welcoming environment where no experience is necessary, and all supplies are included. Whether you’re discovering art for the first time or nurturing a growing passion, Mini Masters is a wonderful way to enjoy a fun and fulfilling creative experience.

Mini Masters will be held from 5:30-7 pm Wednesday, July 9, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 6 and up

Join instructor Cheryl Meyer in a 3-week introduction to the artistry of watercolor painting. This course covers watercolor basics, including exploring different papers, various brushstrokes and techniques, color theory, and mixing colors. This class will also cover hard versus soft edges, wet on wet, wet on dry, pouring, glazing, spritzing, & masking techniques. Students will experiment with these techniques and begin their journey into watercolors. No experience needed. All supplies are provided.

This 3-week course will be held from 2-4 pm Wednesdays, July 9-23, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt Pleasant, MI.

Recommended age: 16 and up

Learn to express yourself through writing with instructor Cheryl Meyer. This 3-week short story course will guide you through the essentials of crafting compelling short stories, from initial concept to polished final draft. We will cover the basics of characterization, setting, plot, tone, and diction. Students will be provided with prompts to use for writing exercises, discussions, and workshops in the following sessions. Students will create and enhance written pieces, crafting a character-driven story. All levels of experience and ability are welcome.

This 3-week course takes place from 11 am-1 pm, Wednesday, July 9-23, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant

Recommended age: 16 and up

Kids interested in learning how to machine sew are invited to join instructor Tanya Ehrsam for a playful take on quilting. Using a sew-and-flip method of piecing, students can create a uniquely designed placemat for themselves or as a special gift. The mystery is in the final design, as no two pieces will look the same! All fabric and supplies are provided, as well as sewing machines. Students are welcome to bring assorted fabrics if desired.

This workshop will be held from 10 am-1 pm on Wednesday, July 9, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 8 and up

Celebrate summer with color, creativity, and a flock of feathered inspiration! Led by instructor Cheryl Meyer, you’ll focus on capturing the charm, movement, and personality of birds through expressive painting techniques. Each week in this 4 session course will feature a different feathered friend and this class will guide you in bringing them to life on paper.

Perfect for beginner to intermediate artists, we’ll explore watercolor fundamentals—such as wet-on-wet, layering, and texture—while also learning how to sketch dynamic bird forms, render feathers, and create harmonious backgrounds.

Join us this July for a refreshing, nature-inspired artistic journey—because this month, it’s all about the birds!

The class will be held weekly from 2-5 pm on Mondays, July 7-28 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI. You may select individual classes or enroll in the series for a discounted rate!

July 7- Sandhill Cranes

July 14- Warblers

July 21- Orioles

July 28- Hummingbirds

Recommended age: 16 and up

This is a continuation of the drawing series by instructor Julie Tyslicky. The Fundamentals of Drawing 3 utilizes assignments to help you start to develop your own drawing style by building on the skills learned in classes 1 and 2. Students will learn how to choose a subject matter through assignments meant to challenge you to think creatively. Design and composition are talked about more, as well as our constant challenge of truly observing what we actually see instead of what we think we see.

This 12-week course takes place 6:30-9 pm, Wednesdays, April 23-July 9 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: Adults only

Toddlers (and parents!) are invited to join us for Wee Wednesdays! Wee Wednesdays is a bi-monthly program held from 10 to 11 am on the first and third Wednesday of the month. During each session, wee ones will gain art, reading, critical thinking, and tactile development skills. Each session will be a new project created on-site for your little ones to take home and enjoy!

The program starts at 10 am, Wednesday, July 2, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Take a creative break in the middle of your day with instructor Cheryl Meyer to practice the art of succinct storytelling. Writers of all experience levels will learn the craft of short-shorts, or flash fiction (stories of less than 1000 words), and hone their skills in creating impactful narratives within a limited word count. This workshop will introduce writers to the form and utilizing prompts and writing exercises, practice the precision and focus of flash fiction narrative. Bring a lunch if you choose and get creative!

This workshop takes place from 11 am-1 pm on Tuesday, June 17-July 1, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant

Recommended age: 16 and up

Curious about crochet but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly class is the perfect introduction to the relaxing and rewarding art of crochet. Instructor Lauren Fulk will teach you the essential techniques, including how to hold your yarn and hook, make a foundation chain, and master basic stitches like single crochet and double crochet. You’ll learn how to read a pattern, increase/decrease, and set the foundation to begin crocheting your own projects.

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to read simple patterns and create your first handmade project—such as a cozy scarf, dishcloth, or more. Students should bring their choice of yarn and assorted crochet hook(s).

This 3-week course will be held 3-5 pm Mondays, June 16-30 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at 111 E. Broadway, Mount Pleasant, MI.

Recommended age: 12 and up

Teen Open Studio is a relaxed, creative night just for teens—perfect for hanging out, making art, and enjoying some pizza. Whether you're into painting, drawing, or want to try something new, this is a great space to explore your creativity and meet other teen artists. Teen Open Studio runs from 6 to 8 pm starting Saturday, June 28, and takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month.

This program is a Teen Advisory Group (TAG) initiative designed to give teens space and support to explore their creativity.

Recommended age: 13-19