Being new to Newaygo County, I am loving discovering all the secret treasures this area holds. My husband and I chose to move to the area because of the bountiful wilderness and outdoor activities. However, we’re beginning to find that this natural gem has even more to offer.
The sign on the door of Studio 37 Arts and Culture Center (located downtown Newaygo) said “We’re Closed”. But those who know get that this really isn’t the case. “We have the sign up so that we can concentrate on our art,” stated Gabe Schillman, resident artist. However, even before the 6 pm Brushworks class began, artists started popping in, knowing that the door was actually open. “We are a grassroots underground art community. Our presence is passed on by word of mouth.” Stacey Kirk, resident artist, concurred that they don’t advertise in a traditional way but want to influence those in the community to turn on their creativity. Recently, the studio hosted a talent show at the River Stop Saloon (downtown Newaygo), Open Mic Poetry Night at Flying Bear Books (downtown Newaygo), homeschool art classes (at the Newaygo County Museum and Heritage Center), as well as art projects for the Commission on Aging and for Newaygo County Kids day, just to name a few.
This summer the two artists are hosting Brushworks group painting classes every Tuesday night in the studio. I was lucky to get the last seat. Being new to the artist table, I followed the lead of a few artists who have made it their weekly outing. Donning my dark blue apron and wetting my easel, I was ready for Stacey’s instruction and example. As the class progressed, so did the banter. I felt like I was sitting around the dinner table with extended family. An artistic community was built in just that couple of hours. I met two newly weds who had chosen Newaygo County (Airbnb on Croton Pond) for their two week honeymoon. They had strolled into Newaygo earlier in the day and found out about the class that night. In the end, each one of us walked out feeling like an artist. I, for one, found the act of painting very relaxing (and the wonderful jazz music selection added to the ambience.)
Should you like to find out the studio’s offerings, check out their Facebook page or website ( https://www.studio37arts.com/).
By Katie Clark
Fall Colors: A Bird’s Eye View
Flying amidst the clouds, high above Newaygo County, Doug Harmon captured Newaygo County's fall beauty perfectly. It's the season, jump in your car and head North! Newaygo County is here to greet you. Grab a bite, even stay the night! Come explore the rivers,...
Fall Means Apple Cider Slushies
The cider slushies are the best-tasting brain freeze I have ever had, and I look forward to it every year.
Christmas Season Festivities
I grew up in Newaygo country. My memories of the area are rich odes to the senses. There’s the feeling of the cold river running over my feet in the summer, sunlight on my face as it blinked through the rustling tree branches along the bank. There was the taste of...
Church’s Tree Farm
Finding the right tree!Snow fell, and we said goodbye to fall as if it were a thing that never existed. There were never leaves of red, yellow, or orange decorating the skyline. There were no greying trees of exposed branches and bark. There is only this place, this...
Something for Everyone at the Dogwood Center for Performing Arts
Just outside of Fremont proper, off of West 48th street (which really is a continuation of West Main street in downtown Fremont) is a beautiful, easily accessible facility named Dogwood Center for Performing Arts. “We have something for everyone throughout the year,”...
Get Your Art On!
This not so summery weather seemed to call for something fun inside today. Newaygo County, known for its outdoor activities, has plenty of hidden treasures for these occasions. However, this morning, I was really in for a special treat as I ventured into an...
Fresh From the Farm
Agriculture has long been a staple of the NewayGo County economy. One reason why Gerber Baby Food put the area on the map was because of its relationship with local farmers. You’ll see the same focus on agriculture and locally produced fruits and vegetables at...
Exploring Newaygo’s Past
Growing up, in an area, we often become familiar with local history. It is taught in schools, on field trips, family members talk about "back when...", and traditions are born in recognition of the history. When you're raised in a community, you often become tired of...
Agritourism
I recently heard the term Agricultural Tourism or Agritourism for short, and was immediately intrigued by the idea, that individuals go out of their way to visit areas because of the agriculture. After a little bit of research, I realized that the idea of visiting an...
Hunt for Karner Blue Butterflies at Sanctuary
Sometimes you want to do something different than follow a path through the woods. Maybe you want to create an adventure or a bit of a scavenger hunt for an endangered species. One of the good things about the late spring/summer season is the endangered Karner Blue...