Arts

Summer Arts Stories

Don't sleep through 'U' productions

Many of us come into Ann Arbor thinking that we are cultured, or at least somewhat in touch with spheres of society other than our own. We think that we live on the cutting edge of diversity and artistic expression. We think that we have our eyes wide open to the spectrum of little worlds that make up the entire society. We think we know what life's all about.

'U' arts advances into electronic age

Art stew has been brewing in Ann Arbor for years now, and the University is invariably tossing in new ingredients. With the current focus on digital media, many artists have been turning to technology to enhance and even operate their work. Formal art training at the University has come a long way.

Miss America the beautiful: Michigan contestant enjoys visit

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. - Although she didn't walk away with the crown, dreams came true for Miss Michigan Kimberly Stec. At the Miss America Pageant, the Engineering senior walked down the runway to the cheers of more than 25,000 people who filled the sparkling convention hall - a dream she had since her first pageant nearly six years ago.

Museums showcase variety of artwork

What do dinosaur remains, Monet paintings, student artwork, and Emperor Augustus's bust have in common? They, among many other artworks and artifacts, are displayed in the galleries of the University's museums and exhibit halls. The four main buildings include the University Museum of Art, the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, the Exhibit Museum of Natural History and the Jean Paul Slusser Gallery located in the Art and Architecture Building.

Art show displays prisoners' work

Hundreds of University students, faculty and Ann Arbor residents browsed the artwork of more than 100 prisoners in the Rackham galleries this past winter. "I can just look at some of the pieces in this room and feel the anguish and pain that the artist went through. This is truly a moving exhibit," said Ann Arbor resident Page Skelton.

Local music shops provide a plethora of rare selections

Like most college towns, Ann Arbor possesses a student body with myriad interests: Football, Homer Simpson, beer and nachos, just to name a few - not necessarily independent - loves. Unique to this fair city, however, is the abundance of local and national options students face when deciding to purchase music.

Sculptor finds art in nature

In sunshine and rain, a sculptural group forms in front of the audience's eyes, and visiting artist Patrick Dougherty's sculpture making has received support from the Ann Arbor and University community in several ways. The community was able to partake in the project during its formation by stopping by, admiring, asking questions, taking snapshots, touching and even building the sculptural group.

Female conductor breaks into predominantly male profession

The rapt audience waits in suspense as the orchestra prepares to perform. The instruments are tuned; the musicians are anxiously reviewing the music in their mind. Then, when the moment is right, the conductor signals and the air fills with the passion of the piece.

Museum provides fun for all ages

That old saying "seeing is believing" may be true, but at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, maybe the proper motto should be "doing is believing." At the Hands-On Museum, one won't find signs that say, "please do not touch the display," as visitors are encouraged to use their hands to engage in the different activities available.

Students groove to sounds of local bands

Not much going on tonight? No big Fraternity parties taking place? Then head on over to the Blind Pig or other area venues for a musical adventure. Despite what some out-of-towners may think, Ann Arbor is a mecca of musical talents. Many of the bands that have played at the legendary Blind Pig have gone on to be international superstars. That is exactly what many of the local bands are striving for.

Minority actors simply aren't Oscars priority

On the eve of the Academy Awards ceremony celebrating the best films and performances of 1995, Reverend Jesse Jackson published an essay on the lack of nominations received by people of color. His protest of the Oscars and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences received widespread publicity and brought to light a major problem within the movie industry.

Titanic floats at Oscars

The dreaded iceberg never emerged at this years 70th Annual Academy Awards. That meant smooth sailing for "Titanic," the epic romance that can now add the words "Best Picture" to its already golden resume. In the annual ceremony honoring excellence in motion pictures, director James Cameron's film about the legendary 1912 ocean disaster received a total of 11 awards. It took home statuettes in nearly every technical category, and tied "Ben-Hur"'s 38-year-old record for Oscar wins, a mark that hasn't been neared in decades.

Truman hits it big as TV show

No need for ID, the man is legit. Previously known for his elastic face and crazy onscreen antics, Jim Carrey shines in his first real attempt at a serious role. "The Truman Show" is not the typical game of one-upmanship that has grown to be the norm for Carrey's movies.

Summer art fairs attract visitors, vendors

Each year one of the largest and most frequented events in Ann Arbor during the summertime, collectively known as the Ann Arbor Art Fairs. The event annually promises to be as wide-ranging in artistic media as it is in offering a multitude of events to satisfy all age groups and personality types.

Renovations mark Michigan Theater's changes this fall

University students stepping onto campus this fall will find many differences in the Michigan Theater from when they left town. The historic theater is undergoing a $4.4-million renovation that will peel off the current facade to restore the theater to its 1928 look.

A2 Film Festival offers choices

Does the thought of seeing Arnold Schwarzenegger, spouting one-liners in yet another overhyped, poorly acted and bewilderingly inane movie make you sick to your stomach? If so, you might find solace in the offerings of the Ann Arbor Film Festival, which features a refreshing and eclectic mix of experimental films, documentaries, and animated shorts.

New sculptures from four artists add variety to Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Attempting to capture attention from Ann Arbor residents and add another dimension to its gardens, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens is displaying sculptures by artists from the Great Lakes region.

Reel Politics

Since the October, 1939 release of Frank Capra's "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," Hollywood has tried to examine the intriguing and remote world of American politics. From corruption and cover-ups to farce and fearlessness, filmmakers have depicted how the political system can be manipulated by the powerful, dominated by the heroic and idealized by the public. This lucrative genre has become a staple in cineplexes across the country; and with last spring's popularity of "Primary Colors," it looks as though it will never leave the office - the box office, that is.

The ways and means of Hollywood

It may be a cliché, but there is merit to the statement that Hollywood loves scandals. This is apparent in the Mike Nichols film, "Primary Colors." Not only does this presidential portrayal kick up old dust from under the White House rugs, but it is dust that many viewers cannot wait to see.

09-08-98

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