A Summer Romance: Michigan State University finds Leland
From staff reports
Painting, Summer of 77, by Betsy Ernst
The Old Art Building in Leland will present a retrospective exhibit showcasing the artwork of former students and instructors who took part in a 50-year summer program established in 1939 Leland by Michigan State University (MSU). “A Summer Romance: MSU Finds Leland,” will open May 12-18 with free viewing from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. The public is invited to attend an opening reception on May 12 at 5 p.m. that will include presentations by keynote speakers with important ties to the MSU summer art program.
The exhibit showcases the link between MSU and the Leland community through the presentation of over 80 works of art, both past and present, created by 45 former students and instructors from the program.
Many of the works displayed were produced during the artists‘ time in the program and are meant to stand in juxtaposition to their more recent works. Thanks to some Leelanau residents who were willing to loan work from their personal art collections, the exhibit also includes work by various deceased artists such as the program’s founders, Erling Brauner and Ralf Henricksen.
From 1939-1989, the Old Art Building was home to a summer art program established by Michigan State University. For 50 years, MSU students and faculty spent six weeks each summer in Leland. Locals and summer residents also took part in the program. Many of the MSU students ended up later moving to the Leelanau area, inspired by their experiences with the program and place.
For additional information, call the Old Art Building at 231-256-2131.
