The Thornapple Arts Council of Barry County was founded in November 1985 by Sue Drummond with help from John Fehsenfeld and many generous supporters behind the scenes. 35 years later, Thornapple Arts Council members, volunteers, and staff maintain their vision to spark creativity, community, and culture through programs and education that bring personal enrichment and quality of life to Barry County residents.
The Thornapple Arts Council was a completely volunteer organization until the fall of 1998 when the first part-time managing director was hired. Today TAC has three part-time staff members with continued volunteer community support.
Recent News
HCMS is hiring!
The Hastings Community Music School is looking for qualified piano, guitar, and percussion instructors! Click through for more information.
March Newsletter
The Thornapple Arts Council’s monthly newsletter is online now. Click the photo above for information on the Jazz Festival, Barry County Artists Exhibition, Sue Drummond Scholarships, and more.
Grant Money Available
Michigan K-12 arts educators of any discipline are eligible to apply for school grants anytime through April 16th or until funds are depleted. Click through to learn more.
BCAE Schedule Change
Beginning in 2021, the Barry County Artists Exhibition will become a summer exhibition! To facilitate this schedule change, there will be no exhibition in 2020. Click through to read more.
The Arts Online
Opportunities for the arts do not end during a shutdown — they just move online! The Thornapple Arts Council is compiling a list of free, online arts opportunities, including dance classes, music performances, art lessons, and more. Click through to see what we have so far!