Apr 08 Wednesday
During this virtual ArtBreak, learn more about Nick La Marca, the multimedia artist whose Sole Lines installation is on view in the KIA lobby. La Marca is an artist and documentarian working across photography and installation. Born and raised in the Bronx, his practice is deeply informed by the city’s cultural vibrancy and diversity. La Marca’s work engages art and design as forms of social practice, using creativity as a bridge between personal narrative, community histories, and broader societal issues. At the core of his projects is a commitment to recognition and research–illuminating local or “micro” concerns and situating them within larger cultural or economic frameworks. His installations and photographic works often serve as platforms for dialogue, highlighting how lived experiences intersect with questions of value, identity, and community. Through this approach, La Marca positions art as both a document and an agent of change, underscoring its ability to connect creativity with social responsibility.
All hybrid events will be livestreamed to our YouTube page and can be found under the “Live” tab. Recordings of select past events are available on YouTube as well.
Apr 09 Thursday
The Great KIA Book Swap returns! Bring gently used books to the KIA to trade for new-to-you titles! We are excited to offer this sustainable reading opportunity to our community. Music and refreshments will be provided. Enter a raffle for great prizes from our sponsors! Receive one raffle ticket per book, with a limit of five tickets per person. You must be present at the time of the drawing to win raffle prizes. Please no textbooks, encyclopedias or magazines. Books should be in good physical condition—no moldy, torn, or damaged books. Keep in mind that this is a book swap, so bring a book in the condition that you would want to receive.
Please note that this event will not be livestreamed or posted on YouTube.
Apr 10 Friday
Attend the tale of a barber who returns from unjust exile, driven by vengeance and a hunger for justice. When he joins forces with Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful pie shop owner, the results are both horrific and strangely compelling.
Winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, Sweeney Todd blends sharp wit, chilling suspense, and a powerful score that ranges from haunting ballads to biting satire. Described as “one of the greatest musicals ever written” (New York Post) and “a nightmare of a show and in some ways a dream” (The Guardian), this tale of love, loss, and razor-sharp revenge continues to resonate.
Apr 11 Saturday
After setting a schedule with special guest leaders, the date has been changed! New date is Saturday, April 11, from 8 am – 8 pm.
Guest leaders include: Yoga instructor Apral Milan-Corcoran, collage artist Jennifer Gatz, artist Erica Bradshaw, local painter Conrad Kaufman
Join us for Rewilding the Imagination – A Creative Retreat, an immersive day designed to spark inspiration and reconnect you with your creative spirit. This retreat blends art, nature, and mindfulness in a supportive community setting. Participants will enjoy a full day of activities, including a photo scavenger hunt and hikes, hands-on art sessions, creative writing prompts, and yoga for creativity. With opportunities to work independently or collaborate in guided workshops, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and empowered to explore your artistic potential. A delicious brunch and dinner are included, along with time for reflection and connection during our opening and closing circles.
This event will be held on the beautiful Carver house property, tucked away for a perfect relaxing and inspiring experience.
Fee: $180/Member, $200/Non-Member. Registration required. Audience: Adults Meet: Carver House, KNC’s Stryker Nature Preserve 2343 Angling Rd, Kalamazoo MI 49008
Get ready to explore the color blue with Art Detectives this April! We’ll read a book that shows how artists discovered and used blue throughout history. Then we’ll explore the exhibition From Cobalt to Indigo: The Power of Blue in East Asia to see how East Asian artists use blue in their creations. After our gallery adventure, we’ll make our own brilliant blue artwork to take home.
Please note that this event will not be livestreamed or posted on YouTube.Art Detectives is a free program for children 4-8 years old (but all ages are welcome). Join us as we read a story, look at art, and make a project to take home. Caregivers must stay with their children at all times. This is a free program; preregistration is encouraged. Adults, remember to register your children!
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Taylor Swift like never before! Taylorville is your ticket to a night filled with chart-topping hits and cherished deep cuts. This dynamic tribute band, armed with unmatched musical talent, takes you on a journey through Taylor's iconic career. The stage comes alive with a stunning video wall production, adding a visual spectacle that complements the music perfectly. It's a tribute that'll make you sing, dance, and relive the magic of Taylor's songs. Don't miss this extraordinary homage to a pop sensation!
Apr 12 Sunday
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the beauty of Asian culture and champion cultural understanding, belonging, and unity in Kalamazoo. Hosted by Western Michigan University’s Asian Initiatives, this year’s Spring Gala promises a vibrant showcase of Asian artistry, cultural traditions, and community spirit.
Apr 13 Monday