Join an inclusive, hands-on arts session in Midland taught by Em Thomas — six weekly classes that welcome all ages and abilities. Materials are provided and class size is limited to 12 for focused guidance.
Join an inclusive, hands-on arts session in Midland taught by Em Thomas — six weekly classes that welcome all ages and abilities. Materials are provided and class size is limited to 12 for focused guidance.
Book with Creative 360
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Creative 360 · Midland, Michigan
Artshop Crafts & Community: Fall 2026 Session II invites Midland residents and visitors to a deliberately low-pressure, high-joy arts experience at 5501 Jefferson Ave in Midland, Michigan. Over six Thursdays (Oct 29–Dec 17, no class 11/26), instructor Em Thomas guides a mixed-ability group through hands-on projects designed to foreground self-expression and practical skill-building. Sessions run 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., cover materials, and are limited to 12 students to keep instruction personal. The classroom is functional rather than flashy: tables arranged for collaboration, easy-clean surfaces, and a small materials library that arrives ready on day one. That practicality is part of the appeal—the focus is on getting people making, not on perfection. This program explicitly welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, including people who receive Medicaid; some students may use a portion of a Community Living Support budget to help cover the fee. Pre-registration is required and note that Midland Public Schools closures for weather cancel classes the same day. Why book it? For travelers who split time between Midland’s outdoor activities and community destinations, this class offers a restorative indoor complement to a day outside. It’s ideal when weather turns crisp or wet, or when you want a structured, social morning after a sunrise activity. The small-group format allows for one-on-one guidance from Em Thomas, an instructor attuned to adaptive art approaches and varied learning paces. What you’ll make varies by week—expect layered paper projects, simple mixed-media explorations, and tactile crafts that prioritize play and technique over finished-product pressure. Materials are included, so show up ready to try new tools and enjoy the communal energy. The limited class size and 1.5-hour rhythm make it easy to fold this into a day of exploring Midland: attend the class, then take a short walk or find a local coffee shop to reflect on what you created. Practical notes: cost for the full session is $140; classes meet weekly and materials are covered in that fee. Accessibility information is provided on registration—contact organizers for specific accommodation questions. If you’re visiting with family or caregiving responsibilities, the relaxed pace and inclusive ethos make this a welcoming option for multi-generational groups. Artshop Crafts & Community is less a performance and more a civic workshop: an accessible place for people to build small skills, meet neighbors, and leave with something made by hand. Registration opens online; prepay to reserve one of the twelve seats. Meeting point is the classroom at 5501 Jefferson Ave. Bring curiosity and any tools you prefer; organizers provide all basic supplies. If you have mobility needs or need to arrive late, email ahead to coordinate access and seating. Classes form community bonds quickly—come ready to experiment and leave with a new collection.
No experience is required—classes are designed for all skill levels and emphasize experimentation.
Pre-registration is required; use the booking link to reserve and prepay for the full session.
Some students may be able to use a portion of their Community Living Support budget; contact organizers for specifics.
If Midland Public Schools are closed for the day due to weather, all Artshop classes are also canceled that day.
Yes—materials for class projects are included in the session fee.
Accessibility information is provided at registration; email ahead to arrange specific accommodations or late arrival.
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.
Book with Creative 360