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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Native American Student Association

Special Recognition Award for a Student Organization Demonstrating the Power of the Arts

The Native American Student Association (NASA) at the University of Michigan has been fostering a supportive community for Native students for over 50 years. Since 1972, NASA continues to reflect on its history and set goals for the future. Through weekly meetings, cultural initiatives, and academic support, NASA provides a vital space for engagement and growth. The organization also sponsors speakers and dedicates energy toward events like the annual Dance for Mother Earth Powwow. In March 2025, NASA hosted the 51st Dance for Mother Earth Powwow—an extraordinary celebration of Indigenous culture, strength, and community. As the largest student-run event at the University of Michigan and the largest and oldest student-run powwow in the nation, it showcases decades of powerful Native student leadership. Drawing hundreds of dancers, singers, artists, and attendees from across Turtle Island, the powwow honors deep traditions through vibrant regalia, powerful songs, and unforgettable grand entries.

Events


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.

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.