Schedule Of Events
3:00pm : James by Percival Everett
The Novel Tea book club has met monthly for nearly as long as Artworks has existed. Usually we discuss a novel, but occasionally, we choose a memoir, or even a non fiction book. Once a year we discuss a classic novel, though we define the term “classic” very loosely. Every two years, we discuss the “Great Michigan Read.” There is no quiz about the book. You don't even have to have finished it to join the discussion. You don't have to be elderly; you don't have to be female. You don't have to be an Artworks member (though we'd love it if you join). You don't have to like the book. You only need to be civil in your speech and respectful of other people's opinions. You don't have to come every month. If you've always wondered what it would be like to join a book club, try Novel Tea. We meet on the third Thursday of each month in the lower level of Artworks. You can find the book for the current and future months on the Artworks website. Click on “Programs”, then “Novel Tea.” Novel Tea will discuss James by Percival Everett, the winner of the 2024 National Book award for fiction. The novel recreates the story of Huckleberry Finn, told from the perspective of Jim, the runaway slave who travelled with Huck on a raft down the Mississippi River. You don't need to read (or re-read) the Mark Twain novel to enjoy James. Consider observing Black History month by reading James and joining the discussion at Artworks
Location : Artworks
3:00pm : "It Happened One Night" Film Screening
Barbara Pillsbury presents the 1934 Classic film, “It Happened One Night,” directed by Frank Capra and starring Claudette Colbert and, Clark Gable. An instant hit in 1934, “It Happened One Night” was the first movie to win all five major Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Actress (Claudette Colbert), Best Actor (Clark Gable), Best Director (Frank Capra), and best writing. “It Happened One Night” is known for its classic status as the ultimate romantic comedy, its Oscar Crown glory and its contribution to the alleged demise of undershirt sales in the U.S. As fresh today as it was in 1934, this sharply-written comedy is great fun from its setup on through to its lively, suspenseful final minutes. Local movie historian and aficionado Barbara Pillsbury began her Matinees with Barbara film series in August of 2024, showing a classic film on the third Thursday of each month at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Upcoming films in the series include For Me and My Gal in March, This Land is Mine in April, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington in May, Since You Went Away in June, and Yankee Doodle Dandy in July.
Location : Immanuel Lutheran Church
7:00pm : Creating a Tropical Bouquet
Local florist Bob Patterson's flower arranging workshops have become a favorite offering of the Festival of the Arts. This year Bob will offer a work shop focused on the creation of a bright tropical bouquet, just the sort of thing that we all need in the middle of winter. Participants will learn the basic principles of flower arranging and design using fresh flowers. Patterson's Flowers, established in 1952 by Donald Patterson, proudly serves the West Central Michigan area with locations in Big Rapids, Reed City, and Cadillac. The first and second generations of the Patterson family, plus a caring professional staff of more than 25 employees, are committed to offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts. Pre-registration for this workshop is required at Patterson's Flowers: In-person at 216 Maple Street
Location : Patterson's Flowers
7:00pm : Student Performance Showcase
The Ferris State University Music and Entertainment Business program is proud to showcase the incredible talent of its students at the 2025 Festival of the Arts. This dynamic program equips students with both the creative skills and business acumen needed to succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries. From performance to production, students receive hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world challenges while fostering their artistic expression. At the Festival of the Arts, our student performers will inspire and engage the community with their exceptional talent. These young artists - ranging from vocalists and instrumentalists to composers and producers - are eager to share their passion and creativity. Through their performances, they will not only highlight their musical abilities but also demonstrate the dedication and hard work that define Ferris State's approach to arts education. This is a fantastic opportunity for the Big Rapids community to witness the next generation of musicians and entertainers, while supporting local talent. The students' performances will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, reflecting the high standards and creativity fostered by the Music and Entertainment Business program. We look forward to seeing how they inspire, connect, and enrich the cultural fabric of our community
Location : The Back Room at Toppings
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