Creative 360 kicks off the year with art and comedy

Creative 360 is opening its third-annual “Animals in Art” exhibition and welcoming back the Dad Joke Show as part of its January programming.

The “Animals in Art” exhibition opens at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, featuring work by Michigan artists ages 16 and older. The exhibition is part of Creative 360’s Living with Animals Series, sponsored by Andy and Donna Rapp, which explores the relationships between humans and animals through the arts.

This year’s exhibition was curated and juried by Marissa Cook, gallery director and instructor of art at Alma College. Cook, a Mount Pleasant-based mixed media artist, works in drawing, painting, and printmaking.

“Marissa’s recent work features botanical inks and ecoprinting, examining local ecosystems and human interaction with the environment,” says Colleen Reed, Creative 360 curator. “She was an ideal choice to jury this exhibition, and we truly appreciate her expertise.”

An opening reception will be held at 7 p.m. and includes the presentation of awards and remarks from the juror. The exhibition will remain on display through Feb. 22, 2026. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Weekend hours are available by calling 989-837-1885. Admission to Creative 360 galleries is free, and many works will be available for purchase.

Creative 360 will also host the return of its annual Dad Joke Show at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, in the Rapp Family Theater. The community-favorite event features local performers delivering an evening of family-friendly humor, including puns, riddles, and classic dad jokes.

“This show proves that laughter really is universal,” says Laura Vosejpka, executive director of Creative 360. “Whether you’re a kid, a parent, or a grandparent, a good dad joke brings everyone together.”

Performers include David King, Andrew Fort, Dexter Brigham, Matthew Schramm, Wade Williams, and John McPeak. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Children younger than 12 receive 50 percent off when accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets are available online or by calling 989-837-1885.

Founded in 1994, Creative 360 is a nonprofit community arts and wellness organization that promotes creative expression and well-being through the arts and humanities. Its programs are supported in part by the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and several regional foundations.