In celebration of the United States’ Semiquincentennial (250th birthday), the fourth annual ARTiFACTORY program is shifting its lens from physical museum artifacts to the power of the American flag. This year’s theme invites community members to explore the history, symbolism, and personal meanings of the American flag through poetry and art.
Sponsored by the Benzie Area Historical Society and the Oliver Art Center, ARTiFACTORY 2026 offers a unique opportunity for local writers, artists, and history enthusiasts to engage with the nation’s milestone anniversary. Youth are encouraged to participate.
Free Workshop #1: Crafting the Poem with Steven Veatch
March 21, 2026 10 am to 12 pm at the Oliver Art Center
The program kicks off with a creative workshop on March 21, 2026, from 10 am to 12 pm at the Oliver Art Center. Participants will gather to learn poetry techniques, explore historical contexts of the American flag, and discuss their work-in-progress in a supportive environment. Whether you are a seasoned poet or a first-time writer, this workshop is designed to help voices of all skill levels find their rhythm. This workshop is optional. There is no cost for this workshop.
The workshop is free, but please secure your spot by registering at this link.
Free Workshop #2 – New for 2026: The ARTiFACTORY Art Class
March 22, 2026 1 pm to 4 pm at the Oliver Art Center
Expanding on the creative journey, the Oliver Art Center will also host a specialized ARTiFACTORY Art Class on Sunday, March 22 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Open to all skill levels—from beginners to experienced artists—this session will guide participants in creating a visual piece of art that complements the American flag theme. This hands-on class provides a space for community members to translate their historical reflections into a physical medium, ensuring that this year’s celebration is as vibrant as it is thoughtful. This class is optional. There is no cost for this class.
The workshop is free, but please secure your spot by registering at this link.
The Celebration: Public Reading and Chapbook
Following the workshop, the community is invited to a special showcase event at the Oliver Art Center on April 12, from 2 pm to 4 pm. Participants will have the opportunity to read their original poems aloud and share their artwork with friends, family, and the public. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free, and all are welcome to attend.
To preserve these voices for posterity, every poem created during the program will be published in a 2026 ARTiFACTORY Chapbook. This commemorative collection will be available for purchase, providing a lasting tribute to Benzie County’s perspective on the American spirit during this historic year. The celebrated ARTiFACTORY 2026 chapbook will be available for purchase after the readings.
Event Details
- Location: Oliver Art Center, Frankfort, MI
- Cost: Free (All ARTiFACTORY events are free to the public)
- Theme: Poems about the American Flag in honor of the U.S. 250th Birthday