Rural Arts & Development Convening

A one-day gathering bringing together artists, community leaders, supporters, and rural development partners to explore the role of art in shaping place, identity, and local vitality.

This convening creates space for people working across the arts, community development, economic development, and philanthropy to exchange ideas, build relationships, and explore how arts initiatives can support rural identity, local economies, and community connection.

The day will feature conversations with the artists behind the 53North installations, a panel focused on rural community and economic development, networking opportunities, and shared discussion about how ambitious arts projects can take root and create lasting impact in rural places.

More information is coming soon. Additional event details, including the final agenda, participant information, and other important updates, will be posted here and emailed to registered attendees as they become available.

Register Today!

Rural Arts & Development Conference
from $25.00

Join artists, community leaders, economic development professionals, funders, and cultural partners for a one-day convening exploring how the arts can strengthen rural identity, support local economies, and create new opportunities for community connection.

The day will feature conversations with the artists behind the 53North installations, a panel focused on rural community and economic development, networking opportunities, and shared discussion around how ambitious arts projects can take root and create lasting impact in rural places.

  • Date: October 1, 2026

  • Cost:

    • Conference Only = $25

    • Conference + Bus Tour = $35

  • Location: Port Austin Community Playhouse, Port Austin, Michigan

  • Anticipated Schedule — Subject to Finalization:

    • Session I: 10 AM - 11:30 AM

    • Lunch & Networking: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

    • Session II: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

    • Bus Tour: 2:45 PM - 5:00 PM (must opt-in)

  • Registration Includes: Convening sessions, panel discussions, networking, and lunch

  • Bus Tour: Participation is optional and requires advance opt-in during registration. Space is limited.

  • Dietary & Accessibility: Please indicate any dietary restrictions, accessibility requirements, or other accommodation needs during registration.

Additional event details, including the final agenda, participant information, parking, and arrival instructions, will be emailed to registered attendees before the event.

Date:

  • October 1, 2026

Cost:

  • Conference Only = $25

  • Conference + Bus Tour = $35

Location:

  • Port Austin Community Playhouse, Port Austin, Michigan

Anticipated Schedule

  • Session I: 10 AM - 11:30 AM

  • Lunch & Networking: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

  • Session II: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

  • Bus Tour: 2:45 PM - 5:00 PM (must opt-in)

Registration Includes:

Convening sessions, panel discussions, networking, and lunch

Bus Tour:

Participation is optional and requires advance opt-in during registration. Space is limited.

Dietary & Accessibility:

Please indicate any dietary restrictions, accessibility requirements, or other accommodation needs during registration.

Hosts & Partners

Sponsors

53 North T-Shirts Are Here! 

A limited run of 53North T-shirts featuring original art by talented artist and friend Clinton Snider are now available. 

You can find them @ PAK's in Port Austin OR pick up during the October 1 convening.  All proceeds will help continue this important work!  

53 North T-shirt
$30.00

Drawn by Clinton…

Donate to PAAIR

All proceeds will be used to create art in our area.

3% Cover the Fee