Old Town came alive last Friday as the community gathered to celebrate the final installment of “Arts Night Out” for the 2023 season. This beloved event, organized by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, has been a beacon of creativity and connection since its inception in 2016, uniting emerging artists with established businesses and fostering a vibrant arts scene in the heart of Michigan.
“Arts Night Out” is a monthly extravaganza held on the first or second Friday night of each month from April to October. During these gatherings, local businesses throughout the community open their doors to artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents from 5 to 8 p.m. It’s a chance for art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a world of creativity while enjoying food and drinks.
Despite the rainy weather that threatened to dampen spirits, there was a substantial turnout. Attendees sought refuge from the rain, engaging in lively conversations with the featured artists. Some artists simply displayed their works, while others, like Sue Allen with her ‘Pour Painting’ event, offered hands-on demonstrations that allowed visitors to create their own artistic masterpieces.
Sarah Arredando, owner of Katalyst, an art gallery in Lansing, expressed her admiration for the thriving local art scene: “Lansing is so full of talented people that you never realize just how many artists are emerging or do this on the side.”
Katalyst, which hosts over 300 local artists and collaborates with international talents from places like France, India, and Ireland, buzzed with activity during the event. Arredando noted that connections were forged among attendees who shared a deep love for art and a genuine care for one another.
Among the showcased artists was Brooke Peiffer, the owner of Reseed Ceramics, who has been dedicated to her craft for 13 years. Her meticulously crafted ceramics, inspired by nature, feature textures reminiscent of tree bark and glazing reminiscent of seascapes. Peiffer’s dedication to her work was evident as she interacted with visitors at Odd Nodd Art Supply, owned by her high school friend Casey Sorrow.
For Peiffer and many others, community events like “Arts Night Out” serve as more than just opportunities to showcase their work; they are catalysts for building meaningful relationships. The connections formed through such events, like Peiffer and Sorrow’s, are a wellspring of inspiration.
“Arts Night Out” also serves as a launchpad for aspiring artists, reminiscent of their humble beginnings. Bradley Rakowski, the owner of Bradley’s HG, a Lansing furniture store, started small and now offers 7,000 square feet of space dedicated to promoting 23 lines of furniture, clothing, jewelry, home goods, and even cooking classes. Rakowski is committed to creating not just a retail experience but a community hub for artistic expression.
For many, “Arts Night Out” marks the beginning of a journey towards artistic success, connecting artists, businesses, and community members while nurturing and supporting local art. Over the past seven years, it has grown into a cornerstone event, celebrating art appreciation and the vibrant arts community in Lansing.
Sarah Arredando summed it up perfectly: “Just getting a lot of people in here that have either never been to ‘Arts Night Out’ or come every time is what I love.” This event continues to be a testament to the power of art to bring people together and enrich the community.