Once seen as taboo or edgy, tattoos have come a long way from their underground roots. What was once dismissed by the art world has now made its way into museum galleries, gaining recognition as a legitimate – and often breathtaking – form of contemporary art.
Beginning on February 2 and continuing through April 19, visitors to the Flint Institute of Arts can view exhibitions of works by two renowned artists who create a rich tapestry of African American culture.
The African American Film Series returned to Flint this November, marking its milestone 10th season. Hosted by Communities First, Inc. (CFI) in partnership with the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA), this free monthly event has become a cherished part of the local arts scene, showcasing films that educate, inspire and empower the community.
Looking for a sprinkling of holiday magic to brighten up your season? The Flint Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops” is the ultimate feel-good tradition! It’s a heartwarming mix of classic Christmas melodies, fresh holiday hits and cheerful tunes that will get you in the festive groove. Imagine a “musical stocking” stuffed with everything you need to feel all the holiday vibes – perfect for families, friends or anyone who just loves a good holiday sing-along.
On view through January 26, 2025 the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) has procured on loan The Sheltered Path, one of the most beloved examples of Claude Monet’s love for the French countryside and his revolutionary mastery of rendering light and atmosphere.
Through January 5, 2025 the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) will showcase Pick of the Litter: Cats & Dogs in Art, a collection celebrating our beloved four-legged companions. With over 60% of Americans owning a pet, it’s clear that animals have long made a profound impact on human lives. Across cultures and eras, cats and dogs have been portrayed as family members, hunters and symbols of status representing wealth, power, loyalty and companionship. This exhibition explores humanity’s enduring devotion to and connection with these familiar pets, featuring paintings, sculptures and works on paper depicting cats and dogs from ancient Mexico and China to modern-day America.
Whether driving, walking or cycling, nearly everyone appreciates the beauty of an artfully painted mural on the side of a building. Murals, especially those with bright colors, are said to improve mood, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. They can nurture a positive image of a neighborhood and promote a sense of community pride. They can be a powerful tool to raise awareness about social issues and inspire creativity. Not to mention that in cities throughout the country and world, murals have become tourist attractions leading to many economic benefits.
Steven Spielberg once said, “You shouldn’t dream your film, you should make it.” And he should know – one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, Spielberg has made many of his dreams a reality. They include award-winning favorites such as “Jaws”, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, “Schindler’s List”, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”, “Jurassic Park”, “The Color Purple”, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”, “Saving Private Ryan” and many more.
This spring, the Greater Flint community was invited to view the works of local art students at two special exhibitions hosted annually by the Greater Flint Arts Council.
If the success of a vibrant community depends in part on the availability of arts and culture, then the City of Flint is a haven for artistic pursuits and public appreciation and enjoyment. In addition to the Flint Cultural Center, which includes the Flint Institute of Arts, Flint Institute of Music, Sloan Museum of Discovery and Longway Planetarium to name a few, Downtown is also home to the Buckham Fine Arts Project.
If anyone knows the critical importance of clean water, it’s the good people of Flint, MI.
While working with the Alzheimer’s Association in 2019, current FIA Access Coordinator Jennifer Giddings-Essenmacher noticed something missing in Greater Flint. “There were simply no social engagement programs in this area for people with any form of dementia,” she says. “The closest programs were centered in Detroit and Grand Rapids.” She lobbied area institutions with ideas to initiate such a program to no avail. So, when she joined the FIA staff in 2022, she made building such a program a top priority. Last October, her efforts came to fruition when the FIA launched the first of many Art Spark! gallery tours.
