Village Arts Factory at 50755 Cherry Hill Road is a calm, welcoming space where art, music, and community come together. If you’re looking for a place to relax, learn something new, or simply enjoy the creative energy of others, this is your spot in Canton, Michigan.
Step Into the Arts Warehouse
The heart of Village Arts Factory is the Arts Warehouse, a 17,500-square-foot space filled with light, color, and inspiration. Here, you’ll find private studios, a fine art gallery, and a main gathering hall that buzzes with activity. Over a dozen resident artists and small businesses call this place home, offering classes in fine arts, pottery, music, dance, and even fitness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, there’s always a class or workshop to try.
You can peek into studios and watch artists at work, take a pottery class, or join a group for yoga on the lawn. The atmosphere is peaceful and unhurried-perfect for letting your creative side breathe.
Gallery Visits: Art Up Close
The Fine Art Gallery is open to the public most days from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and by special appointment. Each month brings something new, from solo exhibitions by Detroit-based artists to group shows celebrating local talent. Recent highlights include abstract works by Marcia K. Hales and a special exhibit by jazz singer and artist Kathy Kosins.
Unlike crowded museums, the gallery here invites you to slow down. Stand close to a painting, chat with the artist, or simply enjoy the quiet. Art is meant to be experienced, not just seen-and Village Arts Factory makes that easy.
Events That Bring People Together
Village Arts Factory is known for its engaging events. There’s always something happening, from hands-on workshops to lively festivals. Here are just a few favorites:
Art in Bloom: Spring Artisan Market – This annual event fills the campus with local artists, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s free, open to all ages, and a great way to spend a Saturday.
Glass Fusion Workshops – Try your hand at glass art, no experience needed. All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with a unique piece after it’s kiln-fired.
Outdoor Cultural Movie Nights – Bring a blanket and enjoy a film under the stars, complete with themed snacks and crafts for kids.
Yoga in the Village – Thursday evenings in the summer, the lawn becomes a peaceful spot for outdoor yoga. All levels are welcome.
Family Science & Art Night – Kids and parents can explore how art and technology mix, with hands-on S.T.E.A.M. activities.
Concerts & Cuisine – Four Wednesday nights each summer, enjoy classic cars, live bands, food vendors, and art displays.
A Place With a Story
The Village Arts Factory sits in the historic Cherry Hill Village District. The campus includes two buildings on the National Registry of Historic Places, including Henry Ford’s last Village Industry Factory and a Veteran’s Dormitory from the post-WWII era. Today, these spaces are filled with creativity and laughter instead of machinery and uniforms.
The transformation from abandoned factory to arts campus is a story of community effort. The Partnership for the Arts and Canton Township worked together to save and repurpose these buildings, turning them into a hub for creative growth and economic revitalization.
All Are Welcome
Village Arts Factory is open to everyone. Programs are designed to be equitable, innovative, and inclusive. Many events and classes are free or low-cost, and there’s a special focus on making art accessible to all ages and abilities. The A.C.E. program, for example, offers workshops for kids with special needs.
Visitors come from all over southeast Michigan-Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe, Oakland, and Livingston counties-to take part in classes, workshops, and events. The friendly staff and volunteers are always ready to answer questions or help you find the right class.
Get Involved: Memberships, Volunteering, and More
There are plenty of ways to become part of the Village Arts Factory community:
- Membership – Starting at $30 for students and $100 for adults, members receive discounts, exclusive event invitations, and a chance to help shape future programs.
- Volunteering – Help out with events, gardening, or building projects. All abilities are welcome, and it’s a great way to meet new people.
- Donations – Every dollar supports arts programming and community events. As a non-profit, Village Arts Factory relies on the generosity of donors and sponsors.
Plan Your Visit
Village Arts Factory is easy to find in Cherry Hill Village. Parking is available on site, and most events are open to the public. For the latest schedule of classes, workshops, and events, check their website or follow them on social media.
Contact Information:
- Address: 50755 Cherry Hill Road, Suite 10, Canton, MI 48188
- Phone: (734) 765-7061
- Email: vaf@partnershipforarts.org
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to sketch, a lively festival, or a new creative hobby, Village Arts Factory offers a peaceful escape and a welcoming community. Creativity lives here-come see for yourself.
Sources: villageartsfactory.com, Village Arts Factory Facebook Page, Village Arts Factory Instagram Page
Header Image Source: Diogo Fagundes on Unsplash
