If you have a budding interest in anything artistic, Greater Flint holds a few places of opportunity. One often overlooked school, sitting off of Vienna Rd. just west of Downtown Clio, may be just what you are looking for.
Clio Center for the Arts (CCA) was founded in 1989 with the mission “to enrich the community by building partnerships to provide a variety of artistic experiences for personal growth” and for the last 33 years has stayed true to that mission by offering a smorgasbord of art experiences for students of nearly all ages, ability and interests. “Local artists founded the Clio Area Arts Society in 1989 to expand the arts in the area,” explains CCA President Jan Warner. “In 2014, we moved to our current location and changed the name to Clio Center for the Arts.”
Today, CCA boasts three classrooms, a gallery and a kiln room. “The kiln room is open for public use for anyone, member or nonmember,” Warner explains. Classes at CCA include pottery, stained glass, weaving, painting (watercolor, oil and acrylic), mixed media, resin, drawing and more. “There is really something for everyone here,” adds Warner, “and if you are interested in learning a skill that is not currently offered, ask us – we will do our best to find an instructor if there is demand.” Classes are offered during daytime and evening hours for adults and kids aged six and older.
There is really something for everyone here.
Jan Warner, CCA President
The CCA also offers homeschool-compatible art classes, general arts & crafts time for kids, and sessions for seniors or disabled residents from assisted living facilities. “We bring them in twice a month to express themselves through art and learn new skills,” adds Warner. The general children’s class offers seasonal projects, pottery, painting, holiday projects or anything else the kids are interested in that is age appropriate.
For those who can’t wait to unveil their artsy creations, the CCA houses the Margaret Runyan Gallery & Art Boutique. The gallery is used to showcase the artists at CCA, as well as the works of professional artists from around the city and state. “For newer artists, we advertise and hold a reception for them,” Warner states. “We designate a small section for our artists to showcase and sell their works.”
Since the pandemic, CCA has found itself in high demand with classes filling up quickly. “The two most popular right now are pottery and stained glass,” adds Warner. The majority of classes run as two-week sessions and the CCA asks that each potential student pre-register and joining a class once it has begun often comes with an additional fee. It’s best to check the website periodically, as not all classes begin or end at the same time.
The quality of the instruction and affordability have made the CCA a destination for many in and around the area. “We have had students from Midland, Caro, Vassar, Flushing, Swartz Creek, Grand Blanc – from all over,” boasts Warner. “We are one of the few art schools with a building with classrooms and we do our best to keep classes affordable for everyone. Come in and check us out!”
For a list of available classes and upcoming exhibitions, visit cliocenterforthearts.org. Class registration is available online or by calling 810.547.7087.
Clio Center for the Arts is always looking for the best way to bring art education to the Greater Flint community and that includes quality instructors. Currently, they are in need of knitting and crocheting instructors to fill a request from potential students. Interested instructors should call CCA – the process includes completing an application and interview.
