Explore Ox-Bow School Of Art In Saugatuck
The Ox-Bow School Of Art Is The Hottest Creative Destination In Saugatuck, MI This Summer
With more than a century-old tradition, Ox-Bow School Of Art and Artists’ Residency is one of the true gems of Saugatuck, Michigan. Offering year-round programming for artists in every stage of their career, Ox-bow is both a place and an experience. Affiliated with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Ox-bow provides diverse instruction. It ranges from functional to the sculptural; from traditional to contemporary; and from representational to conceptual.
Founded by Frederick Fursman and Walter Marshall Clute from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1910, Ox-Bow has been a refuge and source of inspiration for many celebrated artists. Thomas Eddy Tallmadge, the renowned architect and architectural historian, came to Ox-Bow in 1915 and quickly became its best patron, leaving 110 acres to the school upon his death.
Other celebrated creatives who have been associated with Ox-Bow include:
- Claus Oldenburg, sculptor
- LeRoy Neiman, painter
- Shel Silverstein, writer
- James Brandess, painter
- Ellen Lanyon, painter
- Chris Ware, cartoonist/graphic novelists/book designer
- Ed Paschke, painter
- Burt Tillstrom, puppeteer and creator of the “Kukla, Fran and Ollie” TV show
- Karl Wirsum, painter and one of the Chicago Imagists
- Janet Fish, painter, printmaker
- Peter Saul, painter
- Edgar Rupprecht, painter
- Nichole Hollander, cartoonist
- Bill Olendorf, painter
~ Source: Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society
“After a century in operation, Ox-Bow’s mission has remained consistent—to serve as a haven for the creative process through instruction, example, and community.”
Wondering how YOU can get involved and be part of the joy and creativity at Ox-Bow? It’s easy.
Ox-Bow Events
Join the community in its huge outpouring of support for Ox-Bow’s annual Summer Benefit. For one evening in July the community of artists and patrons gather for a special celebration of fellowship and fundraising. Hundreds of guests enjoy artisanal cuisine, an open bar, and lively auctions featuring the artwork of Ox-Bow’s notable artists and alumni.
Missed getting your tickets for this year’s sold out Summer Benefit? Here are other ways you can be part of Ox-Bow!
- Friday Night Open Studios | This Ox-Bow tradition is a do-not-miss summer event for locals and visitors alike. A true celebration of art with open studios, glass and metal demonstrations and a live auction underneath the tent. Plus, find complimentary appetizers and beverages. Insider’s tip: parking is limited, so save yourself the hassle and take the free shuttle (Saugatuck’s Interurban) … or, hop on your bikes and enjoy the ride.
- Art On The Meadow Workshops | No advanced art degrees required here. Participate in a day long, or four day course on whatever gets the muses going. Study the art of pastels, watercolors, glass beadmaking, writing, Korean cooking, letterpress … and so many more! The workshops are open to all, and Wickwood Inn in downtown Saugatuck is the perfect place to stay. Let Wickwood take care of you while you create.
- Ox-Bow Summer Art Courses | A unique Saugautck experience to work closely alongside artists from across the country with world-class instructors for a week or two. Take art classes for credit, or non-credit. Summer courses are open to all skill levels. Classes range from ceramics, fiber, photo, painting and drawing, sculpture and metals, printmaking and more.
- Campfire Download | A casual, fun, and free event series at Ox-Bow where people present something they’re passionate about! 20 images, each auto-advancing after 20 seconds, with the presenter talking along with the images. The presentation can on anything from a road trip through the Southwest to a DIY home project, as long as it’s a passion.
“To draw you must close your eyes and sing.”
~ Pablo Picasso
Explore all the wonder, tranquility, and creativity that is Ox-Bow! While enjoying your Saugatuck, Michigan getaway, visit our many art galleries and studios to further inspire. It’s easy to catch the creative muse when you plan an extended stay at Wickwood Inn this summer in Saugatuck. We hope we see you soon!