Student Creative Work

The Arts Initiative is dedicated to providing a platform for University of Michigan students to share their artistic voice and creativity!
These programs showcase a wide range of student creative work.

Student Competitions & Exhibitions

Arts Initiative believes there is an artist inside each of us. These competitions are your opportunity to share your artistic genius, exhibit your work for the University community and win some prizes! Competitions will be held periodically throughout the year, with calls for art using different themes and mediums. Submissions are narrowed down by staff, and then the finalists are voted on by the public in the Unions and by the U-M Community online. Winners get great prizes, so be sure you’re signed up for Arts Info, our weekly email, so you’ll hear about our future contests and opportunities.

Student Arts Org Highlights

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Rude Mechanicals

Rude Mechanicals was founded in 1996 by two engineers, Michael Newberry and Christopher Ritchie. Since then, they have been producing a staged theatre production each semester. They offer diverse seasons by producing a contemporary piece and a classic/period/Shakespeare piece. They want their audience members to see something unique when they walk into a theatre, to be taken to another world. The Rude Mechanicals offers a chance to explore all aspects of theatre: acting, designing, lighting, costuming, scenic construction, marketing, run crew, and many more wonderful opportunities. Rudes wants to be an artistic outlet for everyone, regardless of theatre experience. Their first show of their season, Murder on the Orient Express, is November 8-10!

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M-Agination

M-Agination is a student-run film production group at the University of Michigan. In production, students are responsible for writing, directing, camera work, and everything in between. This is a group that welcomes all kinds of creativity. They select projects from student submissions throughout the year for a large-scale screening 'festival' at the Michigan Theater in April.

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Origami Club

Origami Club at the University of Michigan is a club for people who enjoy making origami, from beginners to pros. They hope this club will be a space for students to take time out of their busy schedules and relax with friends while making art. They will be hosting an event on November 1 in Mason Hall 2330 from 8-10 p.m. to fold origami swallows and hummingbirds!

Events

Ann Arbor has tons of arts happening at any time. Find art around town, discover opportunities, and read about the local arts scene!


Arts Info

Arts Info is your weekly guide for arts events around Ann Arbor, student arts opportunities, information about and resources for student arts organizations, and student creative work!

Art Around Town

Ann Arbor and U-M have a vibrant art scene with a constant array of arts events. Find weekly recommendations and resources on how to find and attend events.

Calls & Auditions

View a list of opportunities aimed at students who want to share their artistic talents. Photo and design competitions, auditions, and calls for entry and more!

Arts Initiative

The U-M Arts Initiative seeks to illuminate and expand human connections, inspire collaborative creativity, and build a more just and equitable world through the arts.

Arts & Culture

Visit U-M's Arts & Culture website to keep up with the latest arts news, and to explore the University's museums, cultural attractions, performance venues, public art, and more.

Photo Credits

Many of the pages on our site feature artwork from students and alumni from the university. We change the photographs and designs periodically, drawing from the Student Creative Work section of this site.