In February 1959, the front page of the Kalamazoo Gazette announced, “The city is to have a new art center,” with costs of construction paid by Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Gilmore. In addition to their extraordinary philanthropy, the Gilmores were KIA board members, art collectors, and skilled artists. Mrs. Gilmore’s bequest to the KIA…
Come to the library and express yourself through collage with a sampling of washi paper, a traditional Japanese handmade paper. Some washi paper and tape will be provided to incorporate into your pieces. Be inspired by the exhibition on view, Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper. All supplies will be provided. Washi Transformed: New…
Join us for a paper-inspired Community Day! Explore Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper. Washi, traditional Japanese paper, is the main medium of this exhibition, which features two-dimensional works, sculptures, and installations by nine Japanese artists. After viewing the exhibition, get creative with members from the WMU Soga Japan Center who will guide you…
Participants will learn about Japanese American artist Ruth Asawa. We’ll explore Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper, featuring two-dimensional works, sculptures, and installations in paper by nine Japanese artists. Michiko Yoshimoto from the WMU Soga Japan Center will join us to guide an origami activity. After, stay for Community Day to experiment with Japanese…
Join us for November Art Hop at the KIA with all galleries open for viewing, washi collage making with Collage Crew Kzoo, an Instrument Petting Zoo with Great Lakes Acoustic Music Association (GLAMA), along with light bites and beverages. In the lobby you'll find various acoustic instruments available to play and learn about with GLAMA.…
Join us for a guided walk through Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper, with interactive activities along the way. This exhibition features two-dimensional works, sculptures, and installations. Discover the remarkable ways nine Japanese artists transform paper into art. Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper was organized by Meher McArthur and is toured by…
The biennial Kirk Newman Art School Faculty Review features new works by Kirk Newman Art School faculty members who work and teach in a wide variety of artistic media. During this extended Gallery Gathering, explore the exhibition with a few of the talented artist-educators whose work is included in the show. Program facilitators will include…
As part of our Free Thursdays initiative, the KIA is proud to feature Deborah Ann Percy and Arnold Johnston in our Gallery Shop Artist Feature on Thursday, October 30, from 6–8pm. Percy and Johnston are writers, performers, and translators whose creative talents span a variety of forms. Their work reflects a deep appreciation for language,…
Drop in on Sundays between 1:30 - 2:30pm and have conversations with docents who can provide information and answer questions about the artwork in the KIA’s collection. Find the docents on the lower level of the museum’s galleries.
Join us at the KIA on October 25th for a spectacular evening as we honor Joy and Tim Light and raise vital funds for the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. The event has sold out, but you can still support the event by making a donation in honor of Joy & Tim Light.
Join us for College Night at the KIA, an after-hours event designed for college students. Enjoy free food, a live DJ, interactive games, and chances to win prizes while exploring the museum in a fun and engaging way. This is a unique opportunity to experience the KIA through art, music, and connection. Admission is completely…
Drop in on Sundays between 1:30 - 2:30pm and have conversations with docents who can provide information and answer questions about the artwork in the KIA’s collection. Find the docents on the lower level of the museum’s galleries.