Rural Landscapes

The Impact of Rural Arts

Rural Landscapes: The Impact of Rural Arts

A day-long convening in Port Austin, Michigan — October 1st, 2026

For the first time, the artists behind Michigan's 53North project will gather in one place — alongside community leaders, economic development officials, and cultural funders — to ask a simple question: How do ambitious rural arts projects actually happen? How do they impact community and what do they leave behind?

Join us for a day that combines candid conversation with firsthand experience of the work itself, including a guided tour of the 53North installations. You'll hear directly from the artists about their process and connection to place, then dig into the economic and community impact with leaders shaping rural development across Michigan.

This is a working gathering for anyone thinking seriously about the intersection of art, place, and rural vitality — artists, funders, economic development professionals, and community leaders alike.

Learn about the panelists and agenda

Register Today!

More information, including the final agenda and participant list, will be posted here and emailed to registered attendees as details are confirmed.

Everyone is welcome to attend the event.

All proceeds will help continue this important work!

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.

Ticket Type:

Date:

October 1, 2026

Location:

Port Austin Community Playhouse, Port Austin, Michigan

Cost:

Conference Only (lunch provided) = $25
Conference + Bus Tour = $35

Agenda

Session I - The Arts 10 AM - 11:30 AM
Lunch & Networking 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Session II - The Impact 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Bus Tour: 2:45 PM - 5:00 PM (must opt-in)

See Full Agenda & More Information

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.

Find out more about 53North, the projects, and the artists.

Vist

Partners

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. Click on a graphic to see photos and learn more about the art.

You can find them @ Port Austin Kayak OR preorder online and pick up during the October 1 convening. All proceeds will help continue this important work!