Help us reach our goal of $100,000 to assist artists and creative organizations adversely impacted by COVID-19. ♥️ Please consider making a gift to Creative Washtenaw Aid to support our community of artists and creative workers ♥️

Creative Washtenaw Members are the Best!

Because they support our work assisting, facilitating, advocating, communicating, educating and celebrating for and with Creative Washtenaw: creative individuals, nonprofit and for profit businesses, education and government agencies for whom the intrinsic and aesthetic values of art and creativity are essential and the highest determining factors of success. Join us here! 

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) Application Debacle 

Inspector General and Congress is on the SBA's Case.

The U.S. Attorney General issued this Management Alert and a bipartisan group of 164 Members of Congress issued a letter  (including eight MI members) to SBA Administrator Guzman expressing their concern and urged the SBA to provide SVOG applicants with an opportunity to correct any information on the application before it is rejected.

SBA Claims SVOG Portal to Reopen the Week of April 18. Promised FAQ update still not posted.

From the SBA SVOG website states "...our tech team and vendors remain focused on testing the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application portal; we aim to reopen the portal by the end of the week of April 18, 2021. As soon as the exact date is confirmed, we will provide advance notice. Also, we are updating the applicant user guide and FAQs to further clarify information and will post those here in advance of the application portal opening. Applicants may continue to register for an application portal account."

The following sites MAY have the most up to date information - everyone remains somewhat in the dark.

SBA SVO | National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) | Creative Washtenaw | Americans for the Arts | Arts Action Fund Facebook Page | Check the NIVA Resource page in the Member Portal for updates. | SVOG Act Now

Michigan National Leader in COVID cases and hospitalizations - Stay Vigilant

Bridge Magazine's Michigan COVID dashboard deems this a third wave due to surging COVID-19 cases and an uptick in the number of hospitalizations. Health officials are urging continuation of social distancing and mask-wearing. Governor Whitmer is preparing no new restrictions at this time.  

Biden Signs May 31 PPP Extension into Law - May 31 Deadline

The PPP Extension Act of 2021 is intended to be more equitable and sets a May 31 application deadline. PPP continues  to be critical to the myriad small businesses applying for new funds or waiting to hear back on their applications. Find details here. You can connect with a PPP lender here or search for lenders in your area here. 

Washtenaw County Pauses Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

According to Juan Luis Marquez, M.D., MPH, medical director with the Washtenaw County Health Department, “we are stopping all use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine until we have more information on the few incidents of concern and clear recommendations on future use...this does not change the fact that COVID-19 vaccination overall is safe and effective. Millions have been vaccinated.”

COVID-19 Cases High and Increasing in Washtenaw County

Precautions Required to Reverse Current Trends 

In its latest release, the Washtenaw County Health Department (WCHD) reports that  COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and test positivity are high and increasing in Washtenaw County and across Michigan. Click here for a more detailed breakdown of cases and demographics. 
“There are multiple reasons for the surge in cases,” says Juan Luis Marquez, M.D., MPH, medical director with WCHD. “It is likely that the B117 variant is now circulating widely, and many previously restricted activities have resumed. Unfortunately, we’re seeing the results.”

The WCHD urges everyone to please use all COVID-prevention measures whenever possible. Wear a mask, keep your distance and wash hands often. Follow isolation or quarantine guidance, and get vaccinated as soon as an appointment is available to you. Washtenaw County Health Department supports these recommendations: 
• High schools currently in person should shift to remote learning 
• Youth sports should voluntarily suspend in person activities
• Everyone should avoid indoor dining at restaurants; choose outdoor dining or takeout, if eating out 
• Avoid gathering with others indoors.

Self-Schedule at Washtenaw Pop Up Vaccination Sites - Eligible individuals may email wchdpopup@washtenaw.org to register and request information. You may also call 734-544-6700 or 211. Please only use the phone line if you are unable to navigate the online request. Limited vaccine appointments may also be available through local health providers or pharmacies including Meijer, Rite Aid, Kroger and CVS. Calling and daily checking of availability recommended. Although improving, supplies are still limited everywhere, and it may take several weeks to schedule everyone eligible.  

Not in Washtenaw County? Find your county vaccine registration information here. 

Michigan Reports Second Highest COVID Case Day Since Pandemic Began.

Has Highest Rates in the Nation and Cases Continue to Soar

According to this report, the state reported 8,955 confirmed COVID cases on April 16, making it the second-most reported cases in one day. Michigan continues to have the highest infection rate nationwide. Many are speculating as to why our state is experiencing the highest case rate in the country. According to this report, among 70% of cases in the state are the B.1.1.7 variant. Hospitals also reported a 30% increase in admissions during the second week in April. President Biden, despite a request from Gov. Whitmer, will not be re-directing vaccines to Michigan due to the surge at this time. The director of the CDC recommends Gov. Whitmer "shut things down", but there has been no news of further restrictions at this time.

Individuals 16+ Eligible to Register at Ford Field Vaccination Clinic

A reminder that Meijer has coordinated a mass vaccination clinic at Ford Field. Anyone in the state can register, however priority will be for residents 50+ and those between 16-49 with preexisting conditions. Starting on April 5, all Michigan residents 16+ will be eligible. To register, visit the online portal here or text “EndCOVID” to 75049. You can also call the state's COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136. 

The Detroit Free Press provides an updated a list of vaccination sites ranging from box stores, hospitals and health care systems to pharmacies and vaccine clinics. They also provide tips on precautions post-vaccine and managing your pain and side effects upon vaccination. For more on what to expect from the vaccine, read the CDC's side effect profile card here.  

Make an Appointment at Detroit's TCF Center

Detroit Offers Johnson & Johnson Vaccine at Northwest Activities Center (NWAC)

VaccineMI Project | COVID-19 Vaccine Availability

Visit Rite Aid's Vaccine Scheduler

Michigan COVID-19 Vaccination Prioritization Guidance

Michigan Coronavirus Dashboard/Tracker 

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Latest MDHHS Gatherings and Mask Epidemic Order

Johnson & Johnson Debacle Continues....Until Friday?

Dr. Anthony Fauci explains in this report that a decision about whether or not to continue administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will most likely be made by the end of the week. The hold is in response to a supposed link between the vaccine and a rare blood clotting disorder called Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia. This complication includes blood clots in the brain combined with low levels of platelets, blood cells that typically promote clotting. Experts claim the risk is very low, yet advise those who have received the vaccine to monitor for symptoms such as severe headaches, abdominal pain, leg pain or shortness of breath. 

To learn more about the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine:

FDA Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Information

Information from Johnson & Johnson

COVID-19 Vaccine Information from Michigan Medicine

Janssen COVID-19 Information from the CDC 

Helpful Resources

Look Up Vaccination Sites by ZIP Code

CDC Guidelines for Those Fully Vaccinated - How to Protect Yourself and Others

CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkits

CDC Cleaning and Disinfecting Guidance

Helpful Information from the CDC on COVID-19 Strains

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

State of Michigan - Continue to Mask Up

For a more in-depth breakdown of the current epidemic order, click here for the MDHHS official guidelines. We will update you on social media and in our next newsletter with any new orders. 

As a Reminder:

• Retail is allowed at 50% capacity.
• Casinos can operate at 30% capacity.
• Indoor stadiums and arenas are allowed to have 375 people if seating capacity is under 10,000 or 750 if seating capacity is over 10,000.
• Outdoor entertainment and recreational facilities may host up to 1,000 patrons.
• Indoor entertainment venues are allowed to be at 50% capacity, up to 300 people.
• Exercise facilities are allowed to be at 30% capacity.
• Social interactions also were relaxed, according to the state:
• Indoor non-residential gatherings where people interact across households are permitted up to 25 people, allowing public meetings and other small indoor gatherings to resume.
• Outdoor non-residential gatherings where people interact across households are permitted up to 300, allowing larger outdoor events to resume.

Audience Outlook Monitor: Confidence on the Rise

Latest Briefing April 19 

Find Alan Brown's report on the latest audience survey results here. 

See his April 5 "Deep Dive" session exploring Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Audience Attitudes about COVID-19.

Find the latest S.E. Michigan Report here (courtesy of CultureSource.)

Washtenaw County Small Business Resiliency Fund

Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan

Ann Arbor Spark Microloan Programs

Washtenaw United Way - Food and Essential Services

For a complete list of local resources, please visit our website here.

Gov. Whitmer Plans to Put American Rescue Plan Dollars to Good Use - No Mention of Arts

According to this April 12 press release, Governor Whitmer prepares to use the $18 billion in funding from the American Rescue Plan to help Michigan's small businesses and K-12 schools. Here are some highlights:

• $5.7 billion in federal funding
• $4.4 billion for local governments
• $3.9 billion for K-12 schools

Economic Injury Disaster Loans - Limit Increased

As of Apr. 6, the limit for EIDL will increase to 24 months of economic injury with a maximum loan of $500,000. Apply here. 

Artist Rescue Trust | COVID-19 Relief for Artists

The mission of Artist Rescue Trust is to provide relief funding to musicians and artists totaling $1,500 over three months and amplify their stories, performances and art to the world. We invite eligible artists and musicians who are facing financial complications from cancelled events and bookings to fill out the application form to be considered. A new fund recipient will be randomly selected from the qualified pool each time $1500 is donated to A.R.T. We are continuing to accepting applications, so if you feel you would be eligable, please apply!

Learn more and apply here. 

Americans for the Arts COVID-19 Resource and Response Center

NEA's COVID-19 Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations

Local - Important Survey for Region 9 Artists / Creative Workers / Businesses - See Below

Americans for the Arts is urging residents of the Greater Ann Arbor area to complete this survey. This report presents the live and ongoing ("real-time") findings of Americans for the Arts' 2021 COVID Impact Survey for Arts Organizations. This survey is designed to assess the creative and social—as well as financial and professional—impact of the pandemic. All responses will be kept completely confidential, handled securely, and reported in the aggregate only. The findings will help us address the most pertinent issues facing our local arts sector as well as inform state and federal advocacy efforts.

Importantly, this survey will also provide localized findings that we all can use to advance these efforts. Once a robust sample of surveys has been collected, Americans for the Arts will send us a link providing access to a dynamic online report that is customized for our community. We will share that report with the arts community.

To complete the survey on behalf of your arts organization, click here. To complete the survey as an artist or creative worker, click here. It should only take 15- 30 minutes to complete. 

State/Regional

The Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs (MCACA) is requesting your participation in this survey by Apr. 30. This COVID Impact Survey examines the human and financial impact of the pandemic on arts and cultural organizations in our state. This reports bolsters our credibility as a sector; please take a moment to fill out!

Destination Ann Arbor recently held an important strategic planning meeting to pave the road for economic recovery from the pandemic. If you missed the meeting, you can read the "road map" here. 

Learn about Michigan’s Coronavirus Racial Disparities Task Force working to increase data reporting transparency and reduce barriers to health care for impacted communities of color.

Community Needs Survey Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

Federal

It’s time for you to cast your annual 2021 Arts Policy Vote! Please review and cast your vote on these four policy agendas for 2021 here. Review the four primary asks in the image below.

Tell your legislator to Put Creative Workers to Work! The $878 billion arts, culture, and creative sector needs COVID-19 relief now, and putting creative workers to work is integral to our national economic recovery and an essential path to total economic health and resilience. For our nation’s 435 congressional districts to come back, we must make the creative sector a cornerstone of America’s economic recovery.

#ArtsCreateHope Campaign - Spread the hope and stay informed about the great need of arts organizations during the COVID pandemic.

Ad Council's COVID Initiative to Improve Accessibility & Education

The Ad Council developed six communications toolkits to help community partners educate and provide answers to their members and stakeholders. These free, easy-to-use toolkits include messaging tips, videos, FAQs, social and digital media assets, educational events, and research that was rigorously vetted by CDC. Here are links to the toolkits: 

• Public health toolkit

• Black community toolkit

• Hispanic community toolkit

• Black faith toolkit

• Hispanic faith community toolkit

• Corporation/employer toolkit

Creative Washtenaw

– COVID-19 Resources for Washtenaw County

_ Michigan Nonprofit Association COVID Resources as of Apr. 5

– Aid, Assistance & Grants beyond Washtenaw County

– COVID-19 Health-Specific Updates and Resources

– COVID-19 Advocacy & Action

– COVID-19 Michigan Legislation & 411 for Workers & Businesses 

– COVID-19 Federal Legislation + 411 for Workers & Businesses

– General Resources for Artists, Creative Workers & Businesses

Beyond Washtenaw

Americans for the Arts

• COVID-19's Pandemic's Impact on The Arts 
• The Ongoing Impact of COVID-19: A Survey of Arts and Cultural Organizations and Creative Businesses. Americans for the Arts
• The Economic Impact of Coronavirus on the Arts and Culture Sector - Dash Board
• CAREs Act Table of Funding Opportunities for the Arts and Artists
• National Arts Administration and Policy Publications Database (NAAPPD)
  
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource and Response Center with constantly updated information for:
  

– For creative organizations & businesses 
– For artists and creative workers

• – For arts + creative education, including school openings and closings
  – Field tools and research
  – Equity and mental health
  – Reopening and resources
  

The COVID-19 Audience Outlook Monitor

Audience Outlook Monitor - WolfBrown developed this worldwide tracking study of audience attitudes about attendance at arts and cultural programs during and after the COVID-19 Crisis. Find timely and essential data to the sector’s decision-making about when and how to resume programming. Watch the Apr. 19 Executive Briefing for updates on progress with vaccination and early patterns of resumption of demand for live programs. From there, you can also watch past webinar briefings.

Are you paying artists and creative workers a fair wage?

Working Artists and the Greater Economy (W.A.G.E) is a national program initiated and operated by W.A.G.E. that publicly recognizes those nonprofit arts organizations demonstrating a history of, and commitment to, voluntarily paying artist fees that meet our minimum payment standards. If you are interested in becoming W.A.G.E. Certified please read the guidelines below, use the Fee Calculator and then begin an application here. 

Washtenaw and local

Michigan Works! Southeast provides a plethora of support, training and services for job seekers.

Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development in partnership with United Way of Washtenaw County, has launched a Financial Navigator program to help residents manage the financial impact of COVID-19. Financial Navigators provide one-on-one telephone assistance (at no cost) navigating critical financial issues and making referrals to other social services and resources. Click HERE to read more or call 734-677-7202 to talk to a Financial Navigator. 

Michigan

How the COVID Relief Bill (American Rescue Plan) Impacts Critical Expansions of Child Tax Credit and EITC

How The American Rescue Plan will rebuild Michigan's unemployment fund

Latest resources from the Restaurant Meal Program and Epidemic Orders.

Resuming Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

MDHSS resources, Restaurant Meal Program and Epidemic Orders

Federal

President Biden's American Rescue Plan Details

SBA Debt Relief (for existing borrowers)

IRS Recovery Rebate Credit

COVID Tax Provisions for Nonprofits Chart

Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act Reminder 

IRS Loan Forgiveness and Safe Harbor Rules

With the aesthetic and intrinsic values of the arts + creativity at its core, creative:impact has a twofold purpose. First, to impress upon listeners the impact and interconnectivity of the arts + creative sector on our lives and community. Second, to tell that story through local artists and creative people – professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally – those with creative practices, businesses and holding creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities. With deep connections to Washtenaw County, they make the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan's strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.

Tune-in to creative:impact co-hosted by Deb Polich, president/CEO of Creative Washtenaw and WEMU's  David Fair every Tuesday during Morning Edition at  7:49 a.m. and 9:49 a.m. Find archive editions here.

 How Every Nonprofit can Help the Communities we Serve get Vaccinated - National Council of Nonprofits

 Webinar: Music Engagement and Population Mental Health - Sound Health Network

 Stop Asian Hate: Resource Center - Petitions, Donations and More

"Why So Many Asian Americans Are Learning Remotely" - NPR

"Artists say a forgotten Nixon-era jobs program could radically alter federal arts funding" - The Philadelphia Inquirer

"Racialized and marginalized people are exhausted. We need a break from talking and thinking about inequity and injustice all the time" - Nonprofit AF

"In Call for National Arts Support, Don't Overlook Young Audiences" - American Theatre

"U-M Professors, Michigan public officials discuss roots of anti-Asian racism..." - The Michigan Daily

 The Hive Project | A campus of art, innovation & sustainability in southeast Michigan

"Dance Can Give Community': Twyla Tharp On Choreographing Through Lockdown" - NPR

"Pioneering Program will pay St. Paul artists a guaranteed monthly income" - Star Tribune

"Yo-Yo-Ma joins University of Michigan for new residency spanning all three campuses" - Click on Detroit

"10 Fun Family Day Trips to Try Out" - Ann Arbor Family

"Government, Nonprofits and Companies Must Unify to Solve our Biggest Problems" - The Chronicle of Philanthropy 

"10 Quick and Easy Spring Crafts for the Whole Family for the Whole Family to Get Creative" - My Modern Met 

"Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Program Expands Reach Thanks to Michigan Nonprofit" - Michigan Nonprofit Association

"Discovering women artists of the past to support artists of present" - International Women's Day

 25th Annual Exhibition of Art by Michigan Prisoners  - Exhibit Video and Artwork 

Enjoy programs and presentations from your arts + creative community

In partnership with Toyota, we’re excited to add a Diversity Film Series to our Virtual Movie Palace beginning this month and progressing over the course of the year and beyond. Through film and storytelling, we hope to stimulate thoughtful and deeper conversations around race, gender, equity, inclusion and social justice, among many other issues. Learn more and purchase tickets here. 

Ann Arbor Symphony Announces Virtual Concerts at Michigan Theater  

The orchestra will perform three concerts with full string orchestra at the Michigan Theater along with additional virtual chamber music performances paired with pick up meals from local Ann Arbor restaurants. These performances will be recorded live without audience and will be available for on-demand streaming until June 30, 2021. Virtual concert passes can be purchased for $50 for households, and $10 for students. Purchase tickets here.

22 North Gallery Presents "minute: a slice of life" Exhibition

An in person and online exhibition that focuses on the artist’s everyday life showcasing their minutes as objects of representation, identification and discovery. Open hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., by appointment. You can schedule an appointment here. Learn more about the exhibition here. 

The Ark Calendar of Events 

The Ark has a brimming lineup of live-streamed events. Read their full calendar of events here. 

The Blue LLama Livestream Series 

Featuring live-streamed 75-minute long concerts including meet & greets over Zoom. Learn more here. 

The Penny Stamps Distinguished Speaker Series 

The Penny Stamps Distinguished Speaker Series brings respected leaders and innovators from a broad spectrum of creative fields direct to your screen of choice with the support of our partners, Detroit Public Television and PBS Books. All speaker series events will be webcast on Fridays at 8 p.m. EST here and at dptv.org. You can also watch the talks and join the conversation on the Penny Stamps Series Facebook page.

Ann Arbor Society for Musical Arts 2021 Spring Concert Series - Wednesday Morning Musicales 

Performances run March through May. All concerts begin at 10:30 a.m. Learn more and purchase tickets here. 

Michigan and State Theaters - Host a Private Screening  

View film of your choice, maximum capacity in largest theater is 26 individuals. Fill out rental request form and learn more here.

Want to add your events? 

Event listings and calendar postings are an exclusive benefit for CW members. We would be happy to welcome you as a member!

Click here for membership information.

Local

Check back here for local updates. 

State

Five Essential Arts Arguments to Make - Arts Midwest

Fact vs. Fiction Government Arts Funding

Federal

Urge Representatives to Sign! Deadline April 27. Please urge your officials to co-sponsor, sign and champion these acts, bills and initiatives.

Urge Representatives to Sign! (Put Creative Workers to Work)

Urge Representatives to Sign!  (Rep. Debbie Dingell's CREATE Act)

Caucuses to Join:

2021 Congressional STEAM Caucus Sign up Form

2021 Congressional Arts Caucus Sign up Form

2021 Senate Cultural Caucus Sign up Form

Attend the 2021 Annual Convention | Americans for the Arts 

The 2021 Annual Convention is our opportunity as a nonprofit arts field to gather and reimagine our creative field and communities. Join us as we explore how to put creative workers and cultural organizations to work as part of our collective recovery.  June 8 - 11, 2021. Virtual. Apply below for a scholarship.

Apply for a Scholarship - May 8 Deadline

As the arts and culture field continues to be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans for the Arts is expanding access to the Annual Convention through extended scholarship opportunities. 

Just how big and impactful is our sector to the national and state economy?

Arts and Cultural Production Satellite Account, U.S. and States BEA 2019

National

Deadline Fast Approaching! Chamber Music America - Classical Commissioning Program - Deadline April 23

Grants available to professional U.S.-based presenters and ensembles whose programming includes Western European and/or non-Western classical and contemporary music. Grants are provided for the commissioning and performance of new works by American composers. The program supports works scored for 2–10 musicians performing one per part, composed in any of the musical styles associated with contemporary classical music. Learn more and apply here. 

Mellon Foundation Announces Second Round of Art Museum Futures Fund Grants

One-third of U.S. museums are at risk of permanent closure. The Art Museum Futures Fund will offer grants to 14 small art museums with ties to community and social justice. Learn about grants and the application process here. 

The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) 

MCACA is now accepting Grant Applications for FY22, with most deadlines falling June 1, 2021. Interested applicants can find information about each of their programs in further detail, including grant guidelines, on the MCACA website. Applicants from across the state of Michigan can apply (based on eligibility) to one of the six programs MCACA offers. New to this process?  MCACA staff arehosting virtual "office hours." Monitor the MCACA Facebook page here to stay informed.

A Complete Guide to 2021 Artist Grants & Opportunities | Artwork Archive

Ann Arbor Golden Paintbrush Awards - Deadline Apr. 30

The Golden Paintbrush Award recognizes adults, children and organizations who have encouraged creativity in Ann Arbor's publicly visible spaces. Awards will be given for art which demonstrates collaboration and excellence, and which adds a bit of magic to our daily life. Visual, music and other arts, including online, are eligible. Anyone can submit a nomination using the online submission form. 

Save Art Space - Deadlines throughout April and May; vary by project

Submit your original artwork for billboard display in Detroit and other big cities. List of open calls. Recent call - Asians Belong Here, Transforming Advertisements into Public Art / Deadline May 31. Learn more here. Each image submitted is a $10 donation. All donations are tax deductible.

Hyper-Local! CAFE Grants for the Arts - Chelsea Area Festivals & Events 

Are you passionate about the future of arts in the Chelsea community? Do you have an idea for an artistic project but searching for financial assistance to make it happen? The CAFE Grants for the Arts is a program that can help turn your artistic ideas into action. CAFE Grants for the Arts will provide one-time, unrestricted grants of $1,000 each to five artists to help continue the artistic and creative efforts that make performing and visual arts such a vital part of our community. The recipients of the grants will be announced in September. Apply here. Deadline July 31. 

Detroit Zoo, Curator of Fine and Performing Arts

The Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA) Job Postings

Maker Works Seeks Part-Time Front Desk Worker

Arts Midwest - Communications and Finance Positions

The Acorn, Executive Director

Michigan Opera Theatre Jobs Listings

WEMU 89.1 FM - Local news coverage plus local arts + creative coverage including Art & Soul with Lisa Barry, Cinema Chat with the Michigan Theater's Russ Collins and creative:impact with The Arts Alliance's own Deb Polich.

Bridge Magazine - Michigan's nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that provides passionate and rooted Michigan readers with honest, fact-driven journalism on the state’s diverse people, politics and economy.

All About Ann Arbor - offers local news, feature stories, restaurant news, sports news, latest events in town and more for Ann Arbor residents.

Concentrate Magazine - tells the narrative of Washtenaw County’s narrative people and businesses, new development, cool places to live, and the best places to work and play. The weekly online magazine is published Wednesdays.

Creative Washtenaw is  the arts + creative industry authority in Washtenaw County. A regional agency, its mission is to support, assist, aid and act in the interest of artists, creative workers, organizations, businesses, educational and government entities to ensure that the greater Ann Arbor, Michigan, region remains a great place to create, live, work, learn, play and visit.

The intrinsic and aesthetic values of the arts and creativity are determining factors of success for Creative Washtenaw members. They include local artists and creative people – professionals, amateurs, students and industry experts leading the sector locally, nationally and internationally – those with creative practices, businesses and holding creative jobs in profit, nonprofit, educational and government entities. With deep connections to Washtenaw County, they make the greater Ann Arbor area one of Michigan's strongest and most vibrant arts + creative industry hubs.

Creative Washtenaw serves Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Manchester, Milan, Saline, Whitmore Lake and Ypsilanti plus the 21 townships in the county. It is committed to, forever evolving and learning about diversity, equity and inclusion. This includes learning how its community defines the intrinsic and aesthetic qualities of art and creativity by the cultural expert, the credentialed scholar, the journeyed or self-taught master and/or the astute consumer of the form.

Creative Washtenaw is supported by  its members, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

For more information, please go to Creative Washtenaw or contact info@creativewashtenaw.org or call or 734-213-2733.