The mission of the Art Center of Battle Creek is to present high-quality programs in the visual arts for the enrichment, education, and enjoyment of the
general populace of the greater Battle Creek area and beyond.

Description:
The Art Center offers a year round calendar of exhibitions in its three galleries plus four semesters of classes for adults and children. Outreach programs include sending instructors to various adult daycare facilities and also providing culture kits free of charge to educators in Calhoun County. Exhibits change on a monthly basis. Artwork by Michigan artists is featured for sale in the Art Center's Gift/Gallery Shop. The Art Center also sponsored an annual Art Fair in downtown Battle Creek which showcases the work of over 75 artists working in a variety of media. The annual Holly Mart Holiday sale, held in the galleries in November and December, offers work by over 100 Michigan artists. This sale is a revenue generator for the Art Center as well as providing income to creative artists.

History:
The Art Center was originally formed in 1946 and has been at the 265 E. Emmett Street address since 1964. The building, originally a church, has seen two additions of gallery space added on over the years. It has been the sponsor of the Art Fair and the annual Holly Mart Holiday Sale since the 1960s.In the 1970s the Art Center decided to start a permanent collection, which today consists of approximately 180 artworks by Michigan artists. This collection is on view periodically and is also loaned to other organizations. A 501(c)3, it is governed by a board of directors elected by the membership. With a small staff, the Art Center has a large number of volunteers that it counts on for its programming and special events. Volunteers are always welcomed to help with special events and programs as well as helping as greeters at the front desk!

Contact people:

Linda Holderbaum, Executive Director, (phone), (email) Joyce Bauman, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)

Office fax number: (269) 969-3838

Address:

265 E. Emmett Street Battle Creek, MI 49017 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.artcenterofbattlecreek.org

Directions:

The Art Center is on Emmett Street east of Battle Creek Health System. It is next door to Greensmith Florist/Addington Hills Cafe.