On January 9, 2026, Creative 360 in Midland, Michigan, opened a captivating new art exhibition called Animals in Art, celebrating the intricate and often emotional connections between humans and animals. This marks the third annual edition of the exhibition, which is part of the nonprofit gallery’s broader Living with Animals series. The event is designed to explore the ways in which animals have influenced art and the human experience, fostering an appreciation for the profound and enduring bond between species.
The exhibition showcases a diverse collection of artworks created by Michigan-based artists aged 16 and older. Artists from across the state contributed their interpretations of human-animal relationships, using a variety of mediums, including mixed media, drawing, and printmaking. From intimate portrayals of household pets to powerful depictions of wildlife and nature, the exhibition offers a rich tapestry of perspectives on how animals shape our lives. The diverse array of works emphasizes the many roles animals play in human existence, from companions and protectors to symbols of the natural world that we strive to protect.
The opening of Animals in Art featured a reception that included remarks from juror Marissa Cook, MFA, who helped curate the exhibition. Cook spoke about the significance of the human-animal connection in art and how it transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, reflecting universal themes of empathy, companionship, and conservation. In addition to Cook’s remarks, an awards presentation was held, recognizing outstanding works of art for their creative excellence. These awards celebrated not only the technical skill of the artists but also their ability to evoke emotion and communicate the complex relationships between humans and animals.
Creative 360 has made the exhibition available for free to the public, inviting art lovers, animal enthusiasts, and the general community to explore the works on display. Many of the pieces are available for sale, with the proceeds supporting the gallery’s mission to foster community engagement through the arts. By offering these works for sale, Creative 360 aims to further promote local artists and provide them with the opportunity to reach a broader audience. In turn, the exhibition helps fund the gallery’s ongoing efforts to provide cultural programming and educational initiatives that encourage artistic expression and creative exploration.
The exhibition will remain open through February 22, 2026, giving visitors several weeks to experience the works and reflect on the many ways animals impact human lives. As the exhibition progresses, it is expected to continue drawing interest from local residents and visitors alike, serving as a space for conversation about the important role animals play in our world. The exhibition is not only a celebration of art but also an opportunity to think deeply about our relationship with the natural world and how it influences our lives, values, and beliefs.
Animals in Art is a powerful reminder of the connection that binds all living creatures together and underscores the ability of art to bridge the divide between humans and the animal kingdom. It provides a platform for artists to communicate their views on the human-animal connection, while also allowing the public to engage with these important themes through creative expression. For Creative 360, this exhibition is part of a larger mission to promote community engagement through the arts and inspire people to think critically about the world around them. Through the beauty and emotion of these artworks, Animals in Art fosters a deeper understanding of the important bond between humans and the creatures we share the world with.
