The 212 Arts Center Brings Spring to Saline
By Madison Brow
Something is aflutter in Saline. Although most birds have already flown south to warmer climates, a few are making homes here for the winter. Birdhouses of every color are popping up in downtown businesses. These works of art are a part of Flying February, a local treasure hunt event sponsored by the Saline Downtown Merchants Association and the 212 Arts Center.
The creators of the hidden birdhouses had won the Birdhouse Challenge, a competition set up by 212. With a birdhouse theme, the artists used their talents to create each piece. The houses are made with great care and creativity, from a circus-themed home at Cobblestone Rose to an “under the sea” tribute at My Favorite Café. Maureen’s Designs is home to the first place winner, a birdhouse made of felt, complete with finger-puppet baby chicks nestled inside.
The 212 Arts Center was the hatching ground for all of this creativity. This non-profit organization is active in the community, and seeks to support the art culture of Saline. Flying February is only one example of the many engaging activities this center creates for the city.
Officially started in 2006, 212 offers classes to children of all ages. From week-long summer camps to appearances at community events, the center works to open kids’ eyes to the fun side of art.
The center’s “Art on the Go” program is an example of how the center reaches out to the community, which gives children the opportunity to make art at local events like the Summerfest. Seasoned teachers and volunteers lead the kids through painting with marbles, designing magnets, or simply coloring with chalk.
The adults of Saline also call 212 home, as the center provides classes in everything from watercolor to glass jewelry-making. The artists of Saline can join the experience by setting up an exhibit to showcase their work, or entering one of their pieces into a contest, much like the Birdhouse Challenge.
Something is aflutter in Saline. Although most birds have already flown south to warmer climates, a few are making homes here for the winter. Birdhouses of every color are popping up in downtown businesses. These works of art are a part of Flying February, a local treasure hunt event sponsored by the Saline Downtown Merchants Association and the 212 Arts Center.
The creators of the hidden birdhouses had won the Birdhouse Challenge, a competition set up by 212. With a birdhouse theme, the artists used their talents to create each piece. The houses are made with great care and creativity, from a circus-themed home at Cobblestone Rose to an “under the sea” tribute at My Favorite Café. Maureen’s Designs is home to the first place winner, a birdhouse made of felt, complete with finger-puppet baby chicks nestled inside.
The 212 Arts Center was the hatching ground for all of this creativity. This non-profit organization is active in the community, and seeks to support the art culture of Saline. Flying February is only one example of the many engaging activities this center creates for the city.
Officially started in 2006, 212 offers classes to children of all ages. From week-long summer camps to appearances at community events, the center works to open kids’ eyes to the fun side of art.
The center’s “Art on the Go” program is an example of how the center reaches out to the community, which gives children the opportunity to make art at local events like the Summerfest. Seasoned teachers and volunteers lead the kids through painting with marbles, designing magnets, or simply coloring with chalk.
The adults of Saline also call 212 home, as the center provides classes in everything from watercolor to glass jewelry-making. The artists of Saline can join the experience by setting up an exhibit to showcase their work, or entering one of their pieces into a contest, much like the Birdhouse Challenge.
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