Almanac

Take a thought-provoking journey through the pages of Wanderlust: A History of Walking by Rebecca Solnit, an acclaimed writer, historian, and activist. As part of the Glen Arbor Arts Center’s Walking exhibition (April 1 – May 29, 2025), this facilitated discussion will invite you to explore Solnit’s fascinating perspectives that connect the act of walking to a wide range of social, cultural, and physical touch points.

Join GAAC’s Gallery Manager Sarah Bearup-Neal for four lively conversations that delve into the history and meaning of walking. Wanderlust focuses on the walkers whose everyday and extreme acts have shaped our culture, from philosophers to poets to mountaineers. The author of more than 20 books, Solnit is a regular contributor to The Guardian and one of today’s most thought-provoking voices.
Discussion Schedule

April 6: The Pace of Thoughts (Pages 3–78)
April 20: From the Gardens to the Wild (Pages 79–168)
May 4: Lives of the Streets (Pages 169–246)
May 25: Past the End of the Road (Pages 247–291)

How to Participate

Register by April 2. This event is free, but space is limited!
Participants are responsible for securing their own copy of Wanderlust. Cottage Book Shop in Glen Arbor offers discussion group members a 15% discount. Pre-order required. Call 231-334-4223 to order your copy.
Read ahead to prepare for each session and get ready to share your thoughts.

Skill Level

All
Objective

To explore the theme of the GAAC’s Walking exhibit from other creative disciplines and avenues.
Outcome

An opportunity to sharpen critical thinking skills, and expand one’s thinking about the act of walking.

Image: Wanderlust front cover

This class will explore throwing on the wheel, extruding, and slab building — experience three fun ways of making clay in a positive environment and beautiful setting.

Come join us in making these no-sew, easy and fun tote bags! Up-cycling for a great cause- helping our neighbors in need. We will be making two totes- one to keep and one will be donated to a local food pantry.

Please register your attendance so we have plenty of food and fun on hand for everyone! (register on our website calendar https://www.bellairelibrary.org or call us at 231-533-8814)

What to bring: two, three, or more! Gently used or new t-shirts (all other supplies provided)

Creating art and contributing to the community for over 40 years.

For more info, email taartisansguild@gmail.com

Sponsored by Alden District Library and held at Helena Township Community Center, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, 231-331-4318.

People of all skill levels are invited to play. Free Event. Sponsored by Alden District Library and held at Helena Township Community Center, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, 231-331-4318.

People of all skill levels, including beginners, are welcome!

For more info, contact Sue Archer at 231-944-0013.

Sponsored by Alden District Library and held at Helena Township Community Center & Library, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, 231-331-4318.

National Alliance on Mental Illness offers support groups for families and individuals living with a mental health challenge. Groups are confidential, free and no registration is required.

Email info@namigt.org or call 231-944-8448 for more information.

Date: Wednesday, June 25 and Thursday, June 26, 2025
Time: 12:30 pm–3:30 pm
Registration Deadline: Sunday, June 22, 2025
Location: GAAC
Ages: 6–12
This workshop delves into the world of block printing, drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature. Students will explore and create printmaking. They will discover the fascinating history of Japanese block printing. They will gain foundational knowledge of art composition for an impactful design. Students will transform their nature sketches into a hand-carved block made from natural materials (styrofoam, corrugated cardboard, bubble wrap, etc.).

Final class project would consist of a vibrant colored, printing of their own unique art piece.

Educational seminar for those who are aging into Medicare. This is a non-sales educational only seminar, open to the public. Participants will learn all about Medicare and the process of signing up. Led by Fred Goldenberg.

Monet painted in his garden to capture the joy his flowers brought him. Learn how to paint Michigan native flowers with watercolor. You will observe real flowers and then sketch and paint them. You will learn watercolor techniques, color mixing, and leave with a a watercolor sketchbook for further independent exploration.

Wendy is a retired Lansing School District art teacher. She is a practicing Landscape and Floral oil, watercolor and gouache painter. She currently teaches with Arts for All, at Northwest Education in Traverse City.

Registration Fee: $20