Up North Arts, Inc. Unfolding Futures Through The Arts and Community

Up North Arts, Inc. is a non-profit 501c3 organization that serves as a vital community arts center for the greater Cadillac area in Michigan. Established in 2016, the mission of Up North Arts, Inc. is to sponsor, promote, and encourage creative efforts across visual, performing, and literary arts disciplines. The organization provides a dedicated facility where residents and visitors of Northwest Michigan can practice, display, and enjoy diverse artistic expressions. The center offers an extensive calendar of year-round programming designed for all ages and skill levels. Educational offerings at Up North Arts, Inc. include specialized workshops in mediums such as clay, pottery wheel throwing, drawing, painting, fiber arts, glass, and mixed media. Additionally, the center supports performing arts through initiatives like the Northern Lights Readers Theatre and dance classes including belly dance basics. For younger creatives, the Kids Art Club and youth summer camps provide structured environments for exploration. Up North Arts, Inc. is also the honored host of the prestigious Phyllis Olson Juried Art Fair, a fine arts tradition dating back to 1968. This annual event attracts nearly 100 artists to the shores of Lake Cadillac, showcasing original concepts and high standards of execution. Beyond events and classes, Up North Arts, Inc. fosters a collaborative environment through memberships that offer benefits like open studio access and class discounts. The center relies on the support of its community through donations, grants, and dedicated volunteers to maintain its role as a cornerstone of cultural enrichment and artistic growth in the region.