Mar 9, 2011

Art Reach Transforms Downtown Into Haven For ArtistsBy Allie BoyerTheMorningSun.com

Monthly, poetry and music can be seen and heard in the heart of downtown Mt. Pleasant. In the summer, painted banners and chairs line the sidewalks and in almost every storefront window, a piece of artwork is on display.

The culprit to this year-round display of art? A non-profit organization enacting its mission to promote and encourage involvement and enjoyment of the arts in mid Michigan.

Art Reach of Mid Michigan has been striving to make its presence known through the programs, activities and events it offers all year. The gift shop and gallery gives local artists a creative outlet for their work. Any art from music and dance performance to writing and painting is appreciated.

Artists sell their artwork on consignment through the Art Reach Gift Shop, bringing a change of pace to the downtown area. Kim Bigard, Art Reach’s store coordinator, explains the factor that makes the store so unique.

“Art Reach brings a handmade feel to downtown,” Bigard said. “At other stores the items are manufactured, whereas here you can tell these are made from actual hands and it’s more personal.”

Read complete article.