Crooked Tree Arts Center’s Dart for Art 2026 Raises Vital Support for Northern Michigan Arts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 15, 2026

 

Petoskey, Mich. —  Over 600 guests gathered in Bay Harbor July 8–9 for Crooked Tree Arts Center's (CTAC) 29th annual Dart for Art, presented by Gaslight Group Properties. The two-night fundraiser brought together artists, collectors, and supporters from across the region to celebrate the arts while raising critical support for CTAC's mission of creating ways for people to connect, learn, and grow through the arts. 

“This event is one of the most powerful expressions of what community support for the arts looks like,” said Angela Morris, Executive Director of Crooked Tree Arts Center. “Dart for Art not only celebrates artists, but it also sustains the programs, education, and exhibitions that serve thousands across Northern Michigan each year.”

 

Community Impact

 

Dart for Art continues to serve as one of CTAC’s most significant annual fundraisers, generating over 30% of the organization’s operating support. Proceeds directly fund exhibitions, arts education, scholarships, classes and camps, and live performances across CTAC’s Petoskey and Traverse City campuses, serving more than 55,00 youth and adults annually.

 

During the evening, local graduating senior Halie Hume shared a personal testimonial about how much Crooked Tree Arts Center has had a positive impact on her creative growth over the years. Throughout her childhood, Hume has taken over 60 classes at CTAC spanning dance, cooking, and visual arts, in addition to volunteering her creative skills at the Arts Center through face painting, costume design, and more.

 

“For me, Crooked Tree Arts Center was always a place I could go to where I felt safe. I felt free to be me; I felt free to express myself through art.” She noted, “It is so important that we have these spaces to allow me to flourish, to allow each and every kid, teen, and adult to explore the art inside them. By providing an easily accessible and comfortable environment such as the Crooked Tree Arts Center, you can give these people a voice.” 

 

“This is what community investment in the arts makes possible,” Morris added. “The generosity of our artists, sponsors, volunteers, and guests ensures that the arts remain accessible throughout our region.”

 

This year’s event was co-chaired by Kathleen Davis and Connie Landis, with support from a dedicated volunteer committee and CTAC staff.

 

The Dart for Art Gallery

 

A defining feature of the evening, the “dart” moment once again delivered excitement and anticipation as guests dashed to claim their selected works of art. This year’s Dart Gallery featured a collection valued at more than $162,000, spanning painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, and mixed media.

 

Darting is a joyful, high-energy moment that has become a hallmark of the event and a signature experience in Northern Michigan’s arts community.

 

Featured Artist

 

At the heart of this year’s event was Where the River Sings, a featured work by Northern Michigan artist Kurt Anderson that was auctioned off during Main Night. Serving as the visual centerpiece of Dart for Art 2026, the piece reflects Anderson’s signature focus on movement, landscape, and the emotional resonance of place. Inspired by a memorable waterfall visit, Where the River Sings captures the energy and flow of the water as it ripples over red rock.

 

“My hope for this piece is that the viewer gets the same sense of calm and connection with nature that I had when I came across this scene,” said Anderson.

 

Artist Reception and Art Awards

 

At Preview Night, donating artists received a welcome reception where they were able to meet

and enjoy each other’s company, and celebrate their craft. Also at Preview Night, juror Liz Celeste, Curator of Education and Exhibitions at the Dennos Museum Center, recognized standout works across multiple categories:

• Best in Show: Sharon Wade, The Dance of Winter & Sun

• Best 2D Work: Gretchen Dorian, NM Sailboats | Harbor Springs

• Best 3D Work: Kimberly Idalski, Blodeuwedd

• People’s Choice Award, as voted on by event guests: Kati Rosenbaugh, Survivors

• Artist Appreciation Award: Trish Morgan, Rest Area

These honors highlight the breadth of talent represented in the Dart Gallery and remain a meaningful tradition within the event.

 

All photos courtesy of Molly Hauxwell-Courier of Matte Photography.

The Dart for Art tent in Bay Harbor.

Guests exploring the Dart for Art Gallery during Preview Night.

Guests raising the paddle in support of Crooked Tree Arts Center during Dart for Art.

Dart for Art guests with their artwork at the end of the night.