The Festival of the Arts begins on Friday, Jan. 30 with its opening reception in the
University Center beginning at 6 p.m.
The opening reception will include light refreshments and opportunities to view steampunk-inspired pieces in the new Fine Art Gallery. Steampunk is a popular new trend of art that use elements from steam power, early mechanics and modern technology. Works from international artists as well as Ferris and Kendall College of Art and Design students will be displayed in the new gallery.
At 7 p.m., the opening reception will include a keynote address and musical performance from Fareed Haque, a well-known musician and associate professor at Northern Illinois University. His eclectic style of music includes jazz and classical guitar and has been influenced from travels all over the world.
The Ferris Honors Art Show will also be taking place during the opening reception. Voting for the People’s Choice award takes place starting at 6 p.m. and a winner will be announced at the end of the evening.
“I hope students participate in the opening reception to be part of the Ferris community showing off the new University Center to the broader Big Rapids community, many of whom will be seeing the facility for the first time," said Bruce Dilg, board chair and founder of Festival of the Arts. “It is truly a first-class building.”
Festival of the Arts is a monthlong series of entertainment, cultural and educational events. The series features contests and workshops for hands on experience and a variety of musical and film presentations. Festival of the Arts is provided by the Big Rapids community and Ferris.
PICTURED: Bruce Dilg, board chair and founder of Festival of the Arts