The arts come alive in Charlevoix. Charlevoix’s premier arts and educational district, known as the Cultural Corridor, is comprised of three world-class institutions, all conveniently located in the heart of the downtown district. They include the Charlevoix Public Library, the Charlevoix Circle of Arts, and the Charlevoix Historical District.
Charlevoix Circle of Arts
Features changing exhibits and gallery with original art by some of the area’s most talented artists to reproductions, pottery, photography, paintings, fiber art, hand-blown glass, jewelry, and more. Classes in various forms of art and culture. The Charlevoix Circle of Arts (The Circle) is a nonprofit arts organization serving the greater Charlevoix area. Their purpose is to inspire and educate people in the performing and visual arts.
Open year-round, The Circle presents a wide variety of art and cultural events including visual arts exhibits, lectures, theatrical & musical performances, as well as classes for children and adults. Thousands of visitors have enjoyed the Circle's activities and look forward to a bright future as we continue to grow.
Charlevoix Historical Society
The house was built in 1891 by Charlevoix businessman and community leader Horace Harsha. Granddaughter Ann Harsha donated the Victorian-style house to the Charlevoix Historical Society in 1979 to be used as a museum. The Charlevoix Historical Society preserves the history of the town through a variety of preservation work and educational opportunities for the community.
Exhibits at Harsha House for the year are:
- A Maritime History of Charlevoix -The City of Three Lakes
Harsha House Museum attractions include:
- 3 Victorian Period Rooms
- Over 9000 Historic Photos & Negatives
- Local Historical Artifacts on Display
- 1917 Working Player Piano
- Local Oral History Collection
- Local Family History Collection
- History Research Materials
- U.S. Census Microfilm & Microfilm Reader
- Sanborn Fire Maps on Microfilm
Charlevoix Public Library
The library connects people to resources that educate, enrich and empower. They offer books and other lending materials, lectures that educate and enlighten, and activities that promote literacy. Cultural offerings include ongoing art exhibits, historical collections, and concerts.
Walking into the main entrance of the building you can see the signature piece in the Library's Art Collection is painted on the curved wall in the entry. Artist Charles Thompson designed the mural to reflect the era of the late 1920s in Charlevoix, Michigan, the time of the original construction of the building. This is a must-see location with lots of interesting pieces of artwork, historic charm, and Michigan artifacts.
