On September 26, I had the opportunity to travel to Ann Arbor as part of the University of Michigan’s Arts Initiative, known as Art On The Move. This initiative gives the UM-Flint community a unique opportunity to experience the arts at UM-Ann Arbor. About 20 students attended.
The first thing we did when we arrived in Ann Arbor was head to the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA). We met with Felix from the Arts Initiative and Flint Artist in Residence Shanzell Page.
After a brief preview from Felix, we went on a self-guided tour of the museum. With several levels of the museum, there were so many opportunities to enjoy the rich history of the art.
I was in awe of the many unique pieces featured throughout the museum, and I gained a deeper appreciation for the arts and how expressive you can be when creating. The stories in each piece gave me a better understanding of the culture surrounding the arts.
After finishing the self-guided tour, I headed to grab something to eat before the next big event. Ann Arbor has many restaurants within walking distance of each other, so you are sure to find something to enjoy during your time there. I ended up picking Buffalo Wild Wings, and the food was so delicious.
Once I had finished my meal, I met my peers at Hill Auditorium and handed out the complimentary tickets for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra performance. The auditorium was filled with other spectators looking forward to the performance of Verdi’s Requiem.
Once everyone was seated, the music began. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra performed breathtakingly. I was captivated by the music and thoroughly enjoyed the sounds of the instruments and the vocalists of the UMS Choral Union.
Once the performance had finished, we made our way back to the bus and headed back to UM-Flint. It seemed as though every attendee had a great time in Ann Arbor and enjoyed the opportunity.
I want to thank the Arts Initiative for giving me this opportunity that I would not have had otherwise. This was definitely an experience I will be grateful for years down the road.
