ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Friday, the Bonifas Arts Center will debut its 2026 Membership Show.
“This became the Bonifas Membership Show in about 2012,” explained Gallery Director Kate Oman. “That was when Bay Area Art Association discontinued, and we took over. We’re continuing that legacy by giving our members something to look forward to.”
Members were invited to submit up to two pieces for the show, which features work of all shapes, sizes, mediums, and subjects.
“Being here ten years now, seeing the transition of all of the artists has been a lot of fun,” Oman said. “We have some new artists this year, which is neat. It’s interesting to see the through lines. Most of our members have either used the colors white and grey or blue, or lots of color. We have a lot of landscapes this time, flowers. There’s some phenomenal stuff, and there’s lots to see here.”
As Bonifas members, artists enjoy benefits like discounts on classes and entry fees, voting rights at the annual board meeting, an ArtNews subscription, and full access to the art center’s library. Memberships are available at a range of prices, but those who commit $100 for the Day Sponsor membership receive discounts at participating museums in the North American Reciprocal Museum Association.
According to Oman, the dedication of its members is what keeps the Bonifas open.
“We have over 300 members, and their annual donations for their memberships help us offer these exhibits for free,” she said. “Without the members, we wouldn’t have an arts center.”
The Membership Show opening reception is scheduled for Friday, June 12, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. At 7 p.m., prizes will be awarded to select artists, including first- and second-place prizes sponsored by the Dorothy Vogt Fund. The reception is open to the public, and light refreshments will be served.
The 2026 Bonifas Membership Show will run through August 6. It is free to view during Bonifas business hours, which can be found at bonifasarts.org. Guests are encouraged to sign the guest book at the front of the gallery upon entry.
To learn more about becoming a member of the Bonifas Arts Center, click here.
