Upcoming Events
Save the Date!
Studio 23/The Arts Center’s 25th Annual Black & White Affair is Friday, December 4, 2026, 6-9 p.m.
Tickets available soon!
The Collective Unconscious Opening Reception
In her series of rich and ethereal abstract paintings, Rochelle Aultman, inspired by Carl Jung’s theory of collective unconscious, explores the innate connection between humans and their ancestral blueprint, inherited ideas, and repressed memories. Through intuitive mark-making and symbols, Aultman’s artwork embodies repetition, rhythm, and ritual as a connection to her lineage and ancestry. She uses these methods to allow intuition, emotion, and repressed memories to flow freely as echoes of the past, creating a bridge to the unconscious mind.
Studio 23/The Arts Center 25th Annual Black & White Affair
Join us for the 25th Annual Black & White Affair, an elegant evening in support of Studio 23/The Arts Center! Come dressed to impress in your best black & white attire and raise a glass as we celebrate 25 years of fundraising in support of making the arts relevant and accessible to all.
Making Impressions Opening Reception
Studio 23/The Arts Center is celebrating the diverse art of printmaking with an exhibition to kick off 2027!
The Spaces We Inhabit Opening Reception
The Spaces We Inhabit
An exhibition of photography and Abstract Painting
Lawrence Hamilton & Pamela Stoddard
On display March 11 - April 18, 2027
Join us for the opening reception of The Spaces We Inhabit, an exhibition featuring the photography of Lawrence Hamilton and the abstract paintings of Pamela Stoddard.
The reception is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Survivor Art Exhibition Opening Reception
Healing is a journey and for some, that journey is taken through or with art. Where words may fail us, art has the magic of expressing even the most difficult topics. In recognition of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, your regional survivor service agencies have partnered together with Studio 23 to bring you a community art exhibit.
Teenworks & Kids' Kreations Opening Reception
Teenworks & Kids’ Kreations celebrates the artwork created by elementary, middle school, and high school students attending art classes throughout Bay County. This is a wonderful opportunity to see their imaginative art displayed in the Rowley Gallery at Studio 23.
Painters & Potters Opening Reception
This annual exhibit showcases the artwork created by the talented students and instructors of Studio 23 during the 2026–2027 terms. You are invited to meet the artists and instructors, plus learn more about our education programs during the reception.
Eco-printing on Silk: Botanical Impressions with Rhonda Luckey
Co-Create with the elements of Anima Mundi—Earth, Water, and Fire.
Journey into the Imaginal Realm through eco-printing, a process that transfers the natural forms of botanicals—leaves, flowers, and boughs—directly onto cloth. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to select and prepare botanical materials and fabric, apply mordanting and bundling techniques, explore both steam and "dirty pot" eco-printing methods, and incorporate eco-printed textiles into wearable art and mixed-media works.
Registration is required. Seats are limited. There is a $10 registration fee.
This program is offered through the Studio 23 Visiting Artist Program, generously funded by the C Joanne Grabinski Visiting Artist Fund.
MI Artists All-State juried Exhibition Opening Reception
This juried exhibition shines a spotlight on the current artwork created by artists from across the state of Michigan. The body of work displayed is an energetic blend of abstraction and realism from our state’s talented and accomplished artists.
Awards to artists will be announced during reception on Thursday, September 17, from 6 - 8 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public.
This exhibition is generously sponsored by LEACIF Accounting and Business Advisory.
Seeing with the Heart Opening Reception
Rhonda Luckey is a multidisciplinary textile artist whose work is inspired by the quiet language of the natural world. She gathers natural fibers from her surrounding environment, transforming them through a range of processes that honor traditional textile practices while inviting contemporary exploration. Weaving tradition with innovation, her work is shaped by the rich histories, mythologies, and artistic traditions of Asian and European cultures—an influence rooted in her childhood years in Okinawa, France, and Italy.
The Studio 23 Visiting Artist Program is generously supported by the C Joanne Grabinski Visiting Artist Fund.
Member Artist Chat with Joanne Grabinski
Fiber Artist Joanne Grabinski will give a brief overview of her process, while demonstrating on an artwork-in-progress so attendees arriving can see her equipment, tools, materials, and work process. She will share a few completed artworks, and respond to questions and comments from attendees.
Artist Chats begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by casual conversation from 6 to 6:30. Attendance is free and open to the public, no registration required.
Painters & Potters 2026 Opening Reception
This annual exhibit showcases the artwork created by the talented students and instructors of Studio 23 during the 2025–2026 terms. You are invited to meet the artists and instructors, plus learn more about our education programs during the reception.
Reception is free and open to the public. Light refreshments served.
iPhoneography: Crossroads Opening Reception
Great Lakes Bay iPhoneographers explore the world through their iPhone cameras, manipulating and altering images through a series of applications to create one of a kind works of art.
Featured artists include: Cindy Bancroft, Karen Bobier, Kevin Bone, Nancy Brooks-Siebert, Elizabeth Cox, Robert Harold, Pam Hart, Sue Hartunian, Kathy Johnson, Gaylene LeVally, Armin Mersmann, Steve Parkhurst, Elizabeth Sullivan, Janis Taylor
Handmade Jewelry Show
Join us on Friday, May 8 from 2–6 p.m. at Studio 23/The Arts Center for a handmade jewelry sale celebrating creativity and craftsmanship!
Teenworks & Kids' Kreations 2026 Opening Reception
Teenworks & Kids’ Kreations celebrates the artwork of students attending art classes throughout Bay County. This exhibit is a wonderful opportunity to see the imaginative artwork and unique perspectives of those growing up in the world today, and to offer encouragement to and instill confidence in the exhibiting students.
Exhibit on display April 25 - May 16, 2026.
Saginaw Area Watermedia Artists Exhibition Opening Reception
Studio 23 welcomes the artists of Saginaw Area Watermedia Artists (SAWA) for this group exhibition. SAWA is a Michigan non-profit organization offering art education and experiences to thier members and the community through presentations, events, and exhibits.
Memes of African American Postmodernism by Lark Allen Opening Reception
Join us for the opening reception of artist Lark Allen’s Memes of African American Postmodernism. Reception takes place at 5-7 p.m., starting with an artist talk at 5 p.m.
Reception and talk are free and open to the public.
Studio 23 Plein Air Showcase Opens
This exhibit showcases artwork created “en plein air,” outdoors from observation, by artists throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region in 2025. We look forward to bringing some warm weather and sunshine into the gallery during the cold weeks of winter!
Paint your Pet Sip & Swirl with Rochelle Dula
Thursday, December 4
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Join instructor Rochelle Dula in learning about how to paint your very own pet on a 16x20 canvas! Rochelle will take you through the process step-by-step. Bring drinks and snacks and get comfortable learning about how to create your own masterpiece of a beloved pet! All art supplies included.
Please email a CLEAR photo of your pet on a neutral background to mcoss@studio23baycity.org once you are registered. Photos are due 1 week before workshop to ensure adequate time for preparation.
Registration is required
$45
Members use code: "members15" for 15% off
Create Your own Custom Bag Charm with Rochelle Dula
Thursday, November 20
5:30-7:30
Join artist Rochelle Dula in learning how to create your very own custom bag charm. Explore different ways to create with different latches, beads, charms and ribbons. Each participant will create one bag charm that they can use on purses, backpacks, pouches and more! All supplies are included. Bring a drink or snack and some friends!
Registration is required
$25
Members use code: members15 for 15% off
Member Make & Take: Buttons and Bookmarks
Our next Member Make & Take event is Thursday, November 20, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.!
Members of Studio 23 are invited to unwind at the end of the day by creating pin-back buttons and mixed-media bookmarks in the gallery!
Bring a friend, a snack, and (if you're 21+) your preferred adult beverage.
This is a FREE event for members of Studio 23, no registration required. This is an in-person only project. We hope to see you there!
Cardinal Needle Felting with Rochelle Dula
Friday, November 14
5-7 p.m.
Join instructor Rochelle Dula in learning about the art of needle felting. Rochelle will take you through the process of creating your own custom felt cardinal! You will learn how to use the supplies and talk about the different kinds of materials you can use to needle felt. All supplies are included.
WARNING: You will be working with needles and may get poked occasionally.
Registration is required
$35
Members use code: members15 for 15% off
Vintage Inspired Shabby Chic Ornament with Allise Noble
Friday, November 14
2-4 p.m.
Make a vintage inspired, shabby chic ornament using paint brushes, jewelry findings, and other mixed media bits and baubles. These unique creations are a beautiful accent to your own holiday decor, or a thoughtful personalized gift for someone special.
All supplies included but you are welcome to bring broken jewelry and old paintbrushes.
Registration is required
$25
Members use code: members15 for 15% off
Holiday Artist Market at Studio 23
Join us on Friday, November 14, 12-7 p.m., for a holiday market. Up to 20 vendors will be selling their handmade goods, art, and more - just in time for the holiday season! Come shop, pick up some gifts for your loved ones (or yourself!), and participate in some fun activities and workshops. We can't wait to see you there! This event is free to attend.
Interested in being a vendor? Follow this link for more information and to register:
https://www.hisawyer.com/studio-23the-art-center/schedules/activity-set/1581832?source=camps
Fall Tree Leaves Painting Workshop with Kaylyn Inda
Saturday, November 8
2:30-5:30
Celebrate the season with this vibrant Fall Tree Leaves painting class! In this session, we’ll capture the warm glow of autumn through bold brushstrokes and rich color. Inspired by the view from beneath the trees, this class is perfect for beginners and seasoned painters alike. You'll walk away with a striking fall piece that radiates warmth and movement. Let the changing leaves spark your creativity!
The instructor will guide students step-by-step through the painting, from sketch to finishing details. Students are welcome to add their own touches and take their time. All art supplies are included.
Registration is required
$35
Members use code: members15 for 15% off!
YOU MUST HAVE AN UP-TO-DATE PAID MEMBERSHIP TO STUDIO 23 TO USE THIS CODE.
Watercolor 101: Shading with Pumpkins with Allise Noble
Friday, November 7
5:30-7:30
Learn techniques for mixing colors and creating shadows and highlights with watercolor paints with a fun fall theme. Skills learned in this class will come in handy for any of your future watercolor projects. All supplies included.
Registration is required
$25
Members use code: members15 for 15% off
Sugar Skull Jewelry Collage with Allise Noble
Friday, October 17
5:30-7:30
Learn how to choose and arrange the perfect pieces to create a one-of-a-kind sugar skull out of old jewelry. Supplies will be provided, but you are welcome to bring in special pieces from home as well. Supplies included.
Registration is required
$25
Members use code: members15 for 15% off
YOU MUST HAVE AN UP-TO-DATE PAID MEMBERSHIP WITH STUDIO 23 TO USE THIS CODE.
50 Artists of the Great Lakes Bay Region Opening Reception
50 Artists of the Great Lakes Bay Region + Art Around the City is a showcase of the works of 50 artists who live and/or work in the Great Lakes Bay Region and neighboring counties. A panel of experts in the visual arts and community leaders from the region will select the artists. Fifty original artworks will be displayed in the Rowley Gallery at Studio 23/The Arts Center from October 16 to November 29, 2025. In addition, 50 images from the selected artists will be installed and displayed as part of Art Around the City on the Bay City Riverwalk and downtown Bay City for two years.
A public reception will be held on Thursday, October 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Exhibition on display October 16 - November 22, 2025.
Couple's Fall Pumpkin Sip & Swirl with Kaylyn Inda
Saturday, September 27
12:30-2:30
Looking for a cozy date night or a fun outing with your partner? Join us for a guided fall-themed painting session featuring a vintage truck loaded with pumpkins. Whether you paint one canvas together or create a matching pair, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, festive environment perfect for all experience levels. This class is designed for couples, but friends are welcome too! Bring snacks and drinks to make it your own fall celebration. Price includes one 16x20 canvas.
Registration is required
$35
Members use code: members15 for 15% off!
(You must have an active, up-to-date membership with Studio 23 to use this code.)
Paint your Pet Sip & Swirl with Rochelle Dula
Thursday, September 25
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Join instructor Rochelle Dula in learning about how to paint your very own pet on a 16x20 canvas! Rochelle will take you through the process step-by-step. Bring drinks and snacks and get comfortable learning about how to create your own masterpiece of a beloved pet! All art supplies included.
Please email a CLEAR photo of your pet on a neutral background to mcoss@studio23baycity.org once you are registered. Photos are due 1 week before workshop to ensure adequate time for preparation.
Registration is required
$45
Members use code: "members15" for 15% off
Brilliant Corners by Doug Cannell, Studio 23 Visiting Artist
Join us for the opening reception of Brilliant Corners by Visiting Artist Doug Cannell!
Artist Talk will take place during the reception at 6 p.m. Exhibition on display September 26 - November 22, 2025.
Doug Cannell is an award-winning sculptor whose works have been exhibited in museums and art galleries throughout the United States. He was born in Detroit, Michigan. Cannell earned a BFA degree from Wayne State University, studied art at the College for Creative Studies, and now works from his studio, a former stamping plant in Highland Park, Michigan.
Since 2019, Cannell has focused on wood as a medium for sculpture. His work is distinguished by his the of contrasting materials, textures, and the juxtaposition of the organic and the industrial. Cannell’s artwork is also informed by his work as a graphic designer, a field in which he has worked steadily since 1985.
The mission of the Studio 23 Visiting Artist Program, through selection of an annual visiting artist, is to enhance the experience of art for our community via exposure to a greater diversity of artists, art media, and artistic styles. The Studio 23 Visiting Artist Program is made possible through the C Joanne Grabinski Visiting Artist Fund.
24th Annual Black & White Affair
24th Annual Black & White Affair
Friday, September 12
6-9 p.m.
Join us for Studio 23’s 24th Annual Black & White Affair, a dazzling evening inspired by the glamour of the 1920s. Step into an Art Deco dream as we celebrate creativity, community, and the arts—all while supporting Studio 23. Come dressed to impress in your best black, white, or Roaring Twenties attire!
Surrounded by the paintings and iPhonography of featured artist Steven Parkhurst, guests will enjoy hors d’Oeuvres by H2O’s Waterside Grill, desserts by Petit 4 Pastry, cocktails and mocktails, and an exclusive silent auction with items and artwork generously donated by many local and state-wide artists and businesses!
Proceeds from this event help support our mission of providing the Great Lakes Bay Region with a vibrant arts center dedicated to making the visual arts relevant and accessible to all.
Tickets:
Single - $100
Couple - $190
Interested in sponsoring? Visit the Black & White Affair page on our website for more information.
Interior Ecologies by Steven Parkhurst
Exhibition on display September 4 - October 4, 2025
The paintings and iPhoneography of Steven Parkhurst are created through a free-associative process in which he combines observation and imagination, often joining abstract and representative subjects. Like natural ecological processes, the interactions between organisms determine the character of the community, with intuitive process and imagination guiding each composition.
Steven Parkhusrt is the Featured Artist for Studio 23’s Black & White Affair fundraiser on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Youth Free Art Friday: Pop Art Pizza with Allise Noble
Friday, August 8
2-4 p.m.
**You must register to participate. Spots are limited.**
If you have signed up, and cannot make it to the workshop, please let us know asap so we can offer your spot to someone else.
Join artist Allise Noble in creating a fun and tasty (looking) pizza themed art. Attendees will learn how to create their own custom pizza step-by-step. All supplies included. Please dress for mess.
This workshop made possible by Dr. James Stoddard.
Chalk Walk Festival
August 2nd, 2025, Studio 23/The Arts Center and 60 artists will be out on the streets of downtown Bay City and in Wenonah Park! The Bay City Chalk Walk is an annual event that will be held on August 2nd from 11 a.m.– 6:00 p.m. on Center Ave. and Water St. It is an arts awareness event that promotes community involvement through street chalk art. Water St. will be closed between 5th St. and 6th St. and Center Ave. will be closed from Water St. to Saginaw St., creating a space for art, an artist market, music in Wenonah Park, and a children’s area full of games, bubbles, chalk, and other free activities.
Come support your local art community and participate in the Chalk Walk sponsored by Thelen Subaru. 50 artists will gather to fill the street with their visions of chalk art and compete for a top prize for Adults of $500. Other prizes include: 2nd place- $200, 3rd place- $100. Youth/Teen will be awarded prize baskets! Would you like to sponsor youth/teen awards? Please reach out to us for more information.
For questions, contact Curator of Education Misty Coss at mcoss@studio23baycity.org or call (989)894-2323.
Paint Your Pet Sip & Swirl with Rochelle Dula
Friday, August 1
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Join instructor Rochelle Dula in learning about how to paint your very own pet on a 16x20 canvas! Rochelle will take you through the process step-by-step. Bring drinks and snacks and get comfortable learning about how to create your own masterpiece of a beloved pet! All art supplies included.
Please email a CLEAR photo of your pet on a neutral background to mcoss@studio23baycity.org once you are registered. Photos are due 1 week before workshop to ensure adequate time for preparation.
Registration is required
$45
Members use code: "members15" for 15% off
Youth Free Art Friday: Polymer Clay Mounted Fish
Friday, August 1
2-4 p.m.
**You must register to participate. Spots are limited.**
If you have signed up, and cannot make it to the workshop, please let us know asap so we can offer your spot to someone else.
Join artist Allise Noble in learning about the art of polymer clay. Attendees will learn how to sculpt, bake, and paint their creations! Each child will take home their how customized mounted fish. All supplies included.
This program made possible by Dr. James Stoddard.