Midland Mini Art Workshop: Drawing & Acrylic Painting with Cyd Keefe at Creative 360

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Midland, Michigan hosts a compact, hands-on art experience at Creative 360: Drawing & Painting with Cyd Keefe. Held at 5501 Jefferson Ave in Midland, this December mini-session runs Wednesdays from 1:00–3:00 pm on December 2, 9, and 16. For $60 per person, participants age 16 and up work with Cynthia Keefe, MFA, Creative 360 co-founder, to sharpen observation, render form, and explore acrylics in a small-group setting limited to ten students. The classroom is built for concentrated practice: easels, tabletop stations, natural north light, and a materials list supplied after registration. Drawing focuses on perspective, proportion, composition, and shading, while painting sessions introduce color mixing, acrylic mediums, and compositional choices that translate across styles. Project flexibility is central—beginners receive step-by-step fundamentals while more experienced painters can push color and texture under Cyd’s tailored guidance. This offering is notable for its balance of craft and accessibility. Cyd Keefe’s MFA and role as a Creative 360 co-founder mean instruction is informed by professional studio practice without becoming intimidating. The small group cap keeps critiques focused and supportive; the two-hour format makes the workshop a feasible stop between a morning at Dow Gardens or an afternoon viewing of Alden B. Dow architecture in town. Practical details matter: bring layered clothes you don’t mind getting paint on, and plan to arrive early to set up. Materials are provided or listed on sign-up so traveling artists can choose to pack a minimal kit. The meeting point is exact—5501 Jefferson Ave, Midland, MI 48640, USA—making it simple to locate the studio whether you’re staying downtown or passing through. Why book this trip? It’s a compact creative reset in a region better known for industry and design than for short-form art education. The workshop pairs professional instruction with a community-minded studio vibe; it’s ideal for visitors wanting a hands-on cultural experience, couples seeking a low-stakes creative date, or locals sharpening observational skills during short winter days. Seats are limited and pre-registration is required. The session’s pace and focus make it work for absolute beginners and for those who want to translate drawing lessons directly into acrylic experiments. If you’re in Midland and looking for an afternoon that leaves you with a tangible piece and clearer artistic tools, this mini-session delivers. Travelers can combine the class with a visit to the nearby Tridge or a walk along the Chippewa River; both offer quick outdoor breaks between sessions. Street parking is usually available near 5501 Jefferson Ave, but check local winter rules if roads are icy. Participants should expect an art-focused, low-impact indoor activity that complements Midland’s design heritage. Bring a charged phone for reference photos and a thermos for warm drinks—small comforts that keep attention on making creations.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Light: sitting and standing for stretches of time; no special fitness required

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior experience to join?

No experience is required; the class accommodates absolute beginners and more practiced artists with tailored instruction.

What is the cost and how do I book?

The December mini-session is $60 per person. Pre-registration is required through the provided booking link.

Where do I meet for the workshop?

The meeting point is 5501 Jefferson Ave, Midland, MI 48640, USA—look for the Creative 360 studio entrance.

What ages can participate?

Participants must be at least 16 years old to attend these sessions.

Are materials provided?

Materials list is provided upon registration; some basic supplies may be available at the studio, but bring personal tools if preferred.

How large are the groups?

Group size is limited to 10 students to ensure focused, individualized instruction.

Local insights

Wildlife

White-tailed deer
Great blue heron

History

Midland is known for its Alden B. Dow architecture and industrial heritage; Creative 360 contributes a civic arts layer to that local design legacy.

Conservation

Bring reusable containers and follow studio guidance for paint disposal—proper handling of acrylics and solvents reduces local environmental impact.

About Creative 360

Creative 360 is a community-centered arts organization based in Midland, Michigan, offering a broad calendar of performances, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Dedicated to accessible arts education, Creative 360 runs inclusive semesters such as Artshop Clay and Artshop Painting Explorations that welcome participants of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Small class sizes—typically limited to eight students for specialized hands-on art sessions—ensure personalized attention and skill development. Creative 360 presents recurring public performances including the free Sound Community Music Series held every second Wednesday, featuring classical and jazz artists like Trio Rubaton and electro-acoustic sets. The venue hosts visiting artists and special concerts such as the June performance by Michigan native Sarah Bomber. Seasonal programming includes a Summer Theatre Intensive for ages 11–17 where students audition, rehearse, and perform under a professional director, and short-term workshops like Sewing for Everyone focused on upcycling and practical skills. Community engagement is central to Creative 360’s mission: the organization operates volunteer programs that allow community members to support events and enjoy performances, and coordinates special events such as the inaugural Holiday Art Fair during Midland’s Holiday Arts Weekend. Additional offerings like Tai Chi 360 provide wellness-focused movement classes suitable for all levels. Creative 360 partners with local artists and instructors to maintain a varied, community-rooted schedule of arts experiences in Midland.

Base locationMidland, Michigan

Tours offered79+

Specialtyothers

Adventure tips

Arrive Early to Set UpPlan to arrive 10–15 minutes before the 1:00 pm start to pick a spot, set up easel, and review the materials list.

Dress for PaintWear layered, old clothes or bring an apron—acrylics can stain fabrics quickly.

Pre-Register and Check Age LimitsRegister in advance for the $60 session; participants must be 16 or older and class size is capped at 10.

Bring Reference PhotosA charged phone with reference images helps when developing compositions or color studies during the session.

Recommended gear

Clothes you don’t mind getting paint on: Acrylic paint can stain—wear layers that keep you warm and protected during a winter session.
Sketchbook and pencils: Useful for warm-ups, practice drawings, and carrying compositions between sessions.
Charged phone or tablet for reference photos: Reference images speed composition decisions and color matching.
Thermos or water bottle: Warm drinks keep focus during cold-weather transit and short breaks.