By Jeff Wellman 

Art galleries are fantastic places to reflect, gather inspiration, and look at life from a different perspective. Michigan artists and artisans are incredibly diverse, and we’re lucky to live in a place with so many galleries and locations that celebrate their creative talents. The media, subject matter, and style all vary, but the galleries we have around us in our communities are full of talent and beautiful pieces. Here are a few of my favorite galleries and shops to check out in our area. 

Sturgeon River Pottery

If you’re looking for unique, hand-crafted gifts and art with true Michigan flair, Sturgeon River Pottery is a great gallery. In addition to the obvious, beautiful handmade pottery, they offer works from over 150 Michigan artisans. You’ll find everything from Petoskey stone art to outdoor accessories, Amish furniture, garden décor, and more. Over the years, SRP has expanded several times to meet the demand of visitors. Today, the gallery is located 2 miles west of Petoskey on your way to Charlevoix, just across from Bay Harbor. With over 4 acres filled with outdoor décor, furniture and other treasures, there are countless gems and works to explore.

Sturgeon River Pottery
3031 Charlevoix Ave
Petoskey
(231) 347-0590

Boyer Glassworks

Step in to Boyer Glassworks in downtown Harbor Springs, MI, and you are greeted with beautiful and intricate glass works that are handmade in the on-site studio. The gallery’s shelves are stocked full of this hand-blown glass. The working studio is open, and visitors can watch Harry Boyer as he takes the molten glass, blowing it into works of art including ornaments, vases, lamps, paperweights and more. Watching the process is really cool; if you’ve never seen live glassblowing, it is worth the trip to the studio. You’re sure to leave inspired and delighted.

Boyer Glassworks
207 N. State St.
Harbor Springs
(231) 526-6359

Crooked Tree Arts Center & The Northern Michigan Artist Market

The CTAC opened its doors in 1971, and serves as downtown Petoskey’s local culture and arts hub. With four galleries, a theater, dance studio, multiple classrooms, a kitchen and more, there are countless aspects to explore within its walls. The mission of the CTAC is to inspire and enrich community members’ lives through the arts, and they do this by offering art exhibitions, concerts, lectures, classes and other special events throughout the year. Their galleries are free and open to the public, and a great stop while exploring downtown Petoskey. Next door, you’ll find the Northern Michigan Artist Market, where you can shop works from local and regional Michigan artists and artisans. 

Crooked Tree Arts Center
461 E. Mitchell
Petoskey
(231) 347-4337

Northern Michigan Artist Market
445 E. Mitchell
Petoskey
(231) 487-0000

Boyne Arts Collective

Located in Boyne City, the Boyne Arts Collective is a space that features galleries, workshops and classes. It is their mission to encourage and support local artists, increase arts opportunities in the area, and promote art education, learning and appreciation in the community. They organize many events throughout the year in addition to their galleries and class space, including arts in the park, art camps, and more. Inside the galleries, you’ll find art from many local artists and artisans, including mediums including  painting, sculptures, prints and everything in between. Collections rotate and they are always welcoming new artists into their galleries to display work.

Boyne Arts Collective
210 S. Lake St.
Boyne City
(231) 675-7071

More: https://www.petoskeyarea.com/archives/art-history/art-galleries/