Cowan Slavin Foundation Corp

I have become a more confident person through my classes at the 212 Arts Center. I also have a wonderful Arts Center family that are encouraging, loving, helpful, and empowering. I really don't know what I would have done without this wonderfully, artistic and spiritual place.

Art is where my heart is and the Cowan Slavin Foundation Corp supports the Two Twelve Arts Center in Saline Michigan. I truely found a home for my artist heart at Two Twelve. The center and it's many programs, classes, resources and especially the fabulous staff provide myself and many artists with the inspiration and support that allows us to keep on creating art. Experienced artist, hobbiest, child, youth or adult all are encouraged to find that creative part of themselves that feeds the artist in their soul.

Cowen Slavin Foundation and Two Twelve arts have been a valuable asset to the community of Saline for the last 5 years. They have supported and nourished the artists in the area and made the arts accessible to all with classes, art shows and community wide events. What a great non-profit!!

The Cowan Slavin Foundation has supported 212 Arts Center and the artists and budding artists of the Saline community in ways that have helped them all become better. Not just better artists, but better at taking their art and the learning of art seriously - better at supporting one another and weaving together a close community of art enthusiasts that simultaneously welcomes more artists and art enthusiasts into that community. That balance of tight-knit and welcoming is indeed a rare thing to find. Artists of all ages interact with one another. Older artists find their eyes opening to new things, younger artists find that, too, but all ages start to look at one another as colleagues and valuable teachers. The artists at 212 Arts Center have all come to take their "games" more seriously, learning how to present their "products", how to merchandise, how to tell their stories. The Cowan Slavin Foundation has built a wonderful community in the 212 Arts Center.

212 Art Center has made art easily accessible in a small community. Whether taking a class, seeing an exhibition of work, or purchasing member work at the Holiday Sale there is no need to travel outside the area.The support they give independant artists on Friday's with the Cake Eaters sessions is extraordiinary, "making" the solitary creators commune with other artists and challenge them for projects often outside of their "comfort zone". Although only a part-time artist, this keeps my mind working.

I have taken a few classes at 212 Arts Center and have been very pleased with my progress as an art student. The staff is very helpful and committed to our community. 212 Arts Center is a big plus for Saline.

I have recently taken several classes at 212 Art Center and have been very pleased with what I've learned and what I have done. The instructors and people there are very knowledgeable, talented, and helpful. 212 Art Center is very visible in the community and is seen as a resource and leader in the cultural life of the community.

We are blessed to have this incredible resource in our community. Thank you for your generous support.

212 Art Center has supported me in my growth as an artist. I have learned much in the classes I have taken there. I am new to the Saline community and have felt welcomed by 212 both artistically and personally.

I discovered Two Twelve Art Center during my first year of retirement. The most impressive aspect of the Art Center is its ability to reach out into the community and make it a better place to live. Summer Camps for children, Family Fun Day, Creating attractive windsocks to beautify the city landscape, Promote a contest to increase traffic in downtown stores during the slow month of February were all the results of creative minds of persons who attend the Friday business meetings and the staff of Two Twelve.

Two Twelve has been a light in Saline. It is invaluable in connecting people to others with talent, creativity, vision, ingenuity and countless other gifts that drive a community. The arts center has filled a hole of need and is constantly growing, expanding it's reach. Margie Bovee is a gem.

My family was fortunate to find 212 Arts in it's early stages. My kids at the time were 7 & 10. That was over 5 years ago!

212 Arts has been a great place for our family to grow.

Here are a just a few quick examples:

For my youngest daughter ... she attended a summer "Day at the Community Garden" sponsored by 212. She was encouraged to show her "beautiful animal drawing" to the local news reporter who stopped by .... 3 days later, she appeared in the Ann Arbor News. She is still proud of that opportunity. She felt empowered.

One of her favorite experiences was the "Animation Camp". She created stop-motion video under the direction of the most talented teacher - Meghan. After camp, we bought some clay and still we create videos at home.

212 Arts made her a stronger person.

My older daughter was born with a pencil and notebook in her hand. :) She has taken drawing classes at 212 arts but, has always been quite reserved about sharing her art. Keith, one of the teachers, recently reviewed many of her recent art works. He spent one-on-one time giving her honest feedback. Soon after that visit, Madison took a big step towards believing in her art.

212 Arts helped her believe in her unique self.

I have had many classes at 212. I have made mobiles, pottery, knitted, made jewelry, etc. But, two classes really standout.
One of my most favorite classes was with Meghan. (yes, that same amazing Meghan) We made our own silk-screen and silk-screened T shirts!!! I have never laughed so much in a class and ...... I loved my t shirt!!!
The other class that was a riot and hugely successful was the "Make PJ's" class. Each of us created PJ bottoms out of the coolest fabric. Great fun!!!

and we can't leave out Dad .... both my daughters attended a camp that ended with a play to celebrate dads! Sam will always remember the special tribute by both of the girls.

Finally ... this all began when we met Margie, the director. I specifically remember when the girls and I were just leaving after our first visit .... Sully turned to me and said .... "Wow, she made me feel 10 feet tall!"

Now that's cool.

212 Arts is so much more than an Art Center ... it is a real caring community. It has made Saline an Art City.

Two Twelve Art Center is wonderful! I found it when I was wasn't even looking and since then I was hooked! The programs they offer cover a wide range, there is always something great going on. The people are really wonderful and very welcoming. It is really a great community place. I would recommend it to anyone.

212 Is AMAZING!!!!
I was introduced to 212 by a relative roughly three years ago and it is still making an impact on my life. In the past I have been involved in our town's Park & Rec, Adult Ed and various other programs which have been nice, but cannot compare to 212's programs and personel. One is captured by the energy, friendliness, warmth and overall positive attitude walking through the door. I thought to myself how can it get any better..... just wait it does!!! Over the years I have taken a good number of classes from tie dying to pottery making and I'm scheduled to take a fused glass class in mid March. I live an hour drive away from 212 and normally WOULD NOT make the drive for any class, but like I said 212 IS NOT YOUR NORMAL PROGRAM! The class size has never been too large and I have always received the personal attention I have needed in all the classes. 212 has a way of making you feel like family even if it's your first visit. It is because of this and the Wide variety of classes, the resonable fees, and the sense of confidence that is instilled by the instructors that I am willing to drive two hours round trip to be involved in 212's programs. Each season I look forward to receiving their brochure which is a feast for the eyes. I savor each page and try to decide what new class(es) to take or which one I want to repeat......they are that good! So thank you 212, because of you I am now more willing to try something outside my 'comfort zone'. Kimberly

I lived in Saline for 2 years before I realized there were other artists in this town. What Two Twelve has done is network me with many artists
in my community! They were here, we just didn't have a institution to bring us all together!
Two Twelve is now reaching out beyond the artist community to include other institutions like our library and the cities after school child care program!

I have taken several classes at 212 and they are nothing short of superb. In addition I have attended many art openings, purchased art and participated in 212 events. In short, 212 Arts Center is the core of culture in Saline. Many of the key artistic collaborations in the Saline area recently have eminated from the direction of 212. It has made such a significant and irreplaceable difference in the quality of life for so many citizens in our town! Everyone is included and invited to participate in as large or little a way as they wish and is appreciated enthusiastically for their efforts.

My experience with the Two Twelve Arts Center has been nothing short of wonderful. It is a beacon for artists, collectors of art and students of art.
This facility provides a place where people can meet to learn about art, buy art and be inspired by art. Students of all ages can take classes in clay, painting, fiber arts, glass and many more mediums. The staff, instructors and volunteers provide a professional and friendly atmosphere that is inviting and welcoming. Two Twelve Arts Center has definitely filled a void for the Saline Community and we are very fortunate to have the Center in our area.

As artists looking to get our work out to the public the Two Twelve Arts Center was wonderful enough to have our work in their show. They sold our products for us and were gracious enough to allow us their venue to showcase our work. This was our best show to date! Thank you the Cowan Slavin Foundation Corp. for supporting the Two Twelve Arts Center.

Branch Wood Works

I (and my kids) have taken several classes at 212 over the past three years. They offer a wonderfully diverse range of classes and the environment is top notch. 212 is very welcoming to artists of all levels and interests and I've made several good friends here. Thank you!

I'm from out of town, and have visited 212 Arts many times over the years. The sheer number and breadth of classes it offers rivals much older, larger academies in cities of a million or more. It has become the cozy nucleus of an amazingly diverse and talented local arts community. Truly a cultural jewel that makes Saline special.

Aside from the richness of the artwork, the real beauty of the Two Twelve Arts Center is the wonderful blend of talent that it continues to attract, even those of the "would be" and "wannabe" variety. From its inception, the Two Twelve Arts Center has been a creative enclave for artists all across the area, offering them a safe and nurturing haven where they can showcase their talents in various forms of media. Just as importantly, it has become a model nonprofit citizen, attracting top-notch talent to its environs while helping develop local interest and appreciation for the arts and the cultural community.

The Cowan Slavin Foundation/212 Arts Center is truly a jewel in a Midwestern city. Margie Bovee created an art center that supports local artists and the youth of the community. The summer programs provide a safe and creative choice for young people and their parents. Adults have a variety of choices to find their creative outlet through painting, pottery, fibers, wood and so much more. I participated in a class that brought together fibers and silk. My instructor was amazing and I thought to myself where did Margie find this woman! Once I completed my scarf I sent it to a relative, as a gift, in Boston as I knew she would enjoy the combinations of textures. My relative was thrilled, and as a Massachusetts Art student she loved the artistry.

I think of Two Twelve Arts Center as home away from home! I love teaching workshops hosted by 212! They truly care about their community and serve as a beacon of light in Saline and the surrounding areas! I'm lucky I walked in when the charming Center caught my eye! Margie, Cindy and Gaines are special!

Words really can't express what the Two Twelve has meant for myself and others. Margie Bovee welcomed me with open arms when I wandered in one day unaware that it was 'after hours'. She kindly gave me the grand tour and invited me to come join the 'Cake Eaters' that Friday. A newbie to the community, I met so many artists and made friendships. I became involved in the community. The 212 hosted my first 'two women show'. They gave me the opportunity to share my knowledge through teaching. My life has blossomed with joy, creativity and sharing. The Two Twelve is a loving, supportive community for all!

Two Twelve Arts Center is a place of learning and of joy! it is a place to share ideas, skills, materials, laughter, and friendship. Two Twelve Arts Center continually finds new and exciting ways to share art with our community. I have blossomed at Two Twelve over the past four years and I believe that Saline has blossomed as well due to the outreach and offerings at Two Twelve Arts Center.

I am a pastel artist and live in the community. I have taken classes at Two Twelve Arts Center and was honored to have the opportunity to have a one man show of 45 pastel paintings which were completed during the time I have been associated with the arts center. This organization provided me with the opportunity to show my work to the public. In addition, the provided press releases and print advertising and a beautiful reception. This was all done at considerable expense to the Arts Center. I can not thank them enough for the support and confidence they have in me. The director, Margie Bovee, has been a wonderful mentor and supporter of the arts in our community.

Personally I am not an artist, but my wife has become involved through volunteering, their challenges, and art sales; I love the fact that we have a local art center where she can further express her creativity.  In addition, my children have enjoyed their fairy door hunt and spent most of the day at their Family Fun Day open house.  The fact that we have such a vibrant art center in our town that's so community oriented is wonderful!

Two Twelve Arts Center is not only a place to learn wonderful skills but is a spiratual place. Everyone is so supportive, not only of your art but is like a family. They have been a life line in some really tough times. The friendships that have happened because of their presence in our little town are really, really special. Because of ideas that came from the center, the whole town has become involved in art...a fairy door hunt last Feb. in local shops, windsocks hanging all over town in conjunction with the library, rec center, and thedowntown association, and currently a 'mouse house' hunt in downtown stores, and Art on the Go summer program for children in selected places in town. The Artist's receptions every month showcases some of the best artists in our area. It has grown to just a small group meeting over the kitchen table five years ago into a huge presence in Saline. I don't know where else there would be an opportunity to hook up with so many fellow artists. It's an amazing place!

I know of the 212 Arts Center in Saline through my daughter-in law who has taken classes and participated in showing and selling her work. I helped her at one of their craft shows and talked with some interesting artists. This is a great place to connect with other artists for support, fun and sharing.

This place has motivated myself to be involved in my community more. My first solo show was at Two Twelve Art Center and it was a fantastic opportunity to begin my artist resume at a welcoming and exciting venue.

I have enjoyed many 212 monthly art displays and their commitment to the community. They really know how to build up the art community as well.

212 has to be a very special, one of a kind fabulous endeavor to create community through art and play. Picasso said, It takes a long time to grow young. We know that at 212 and so our art is fun and it is so integrated into the community. Everyone benefits!

I love having the 212 Center in Saline. They offer so many classes and keep the arts alive in our community for all ages. Thanks to all who make this center a reality. Live, create, grow...

I am a retired teacher who looked forward to art classes. I never dreamed I would find such support, opportunity, and just plain fun in the small town of Saline. We created Mouse Houses from cigar boxes with a children's book theme. They are scattered in businesses around town. A contest draws people into the stores to seek out the houses. Everyone wins and everyone has fun.

There were many talented artists in our community, but we never knew about each other. Two Twelve Arts Center has become a doorway and a haven for all of us to let our community see the treasures that were quietly existing in the area. Not only has this been beneficial to the artists to have a place to learn and support each other, but it has also been an enriching experience for our whole community. When you live in a small town, each thing that makes life richer for the people in turn makes our community a better place. Two Twelve Arts Center has caring, talented instructors to challange us artists, venues to highlight artists and has brought art to the forefront in our community.

Two twelve art center is a remarkable teaching facility. I have visited their gallery, taken a class, and helped teach a class. There are very few resources for the adult artist to learn at a reasonable cost, two twelve fills that void. It is a place of artistic encouragement, where exploration is encouraged.

From Margie Bovee's dream of a nurturing place where artists could blossom, learn and shine to the highly respected fully-engaged community arts center it is today, the 212 Arts Center is our city's cornerstone for creativity. The spirit of support and development amoung the member artists allows for untethered growth, expression and participation and extends graciously into the community. The 212 generously shares its resources and frequently partners with area organizations such as the Saline District Library, the Saline Downtown Merchants Association, Saline Parks & Recreation and the Saline Area Schools to produce classes, demonstrations and events that expose our community to the joy of art. The quality of life in Saline has been greatly enhanced by the 212 Arts Center and its members.

As a nurse who specializes in community based holistic health care, I have been overjoyed with what 212 has accomplished. At first I taught a couple classes at 212 that blended art and holistic healing together, but mostly I find myself attending cake eaters to enjoy watching the progress the group is making. Truly effective community groups get together to make a difference in the community (which 212 does) but also to foster community relationships and personal growth opportunities. While attending cake eaters, I have watched people not only discover unknown and previously untapped artistic talent, but develop that talent to a professional level through the classes and encouragement of the staff and instructors at 212. The work that 212 does makes a difference in the community and the people who teach and the people who attend classes. The 212 art center is the heart beat of Saline.

Two Twelve is not only "the place" for local artists to share, network, gather and learn, but it embraces the local art community with enthusiasm and passion. From the minute I walked into my first class, I was welcomed with encouragement, which pushed me as an artist to continue my love for the arts. I can honestly say that the giving spirit of Two Twelve changed my life by not only becoming a better artist, but more importantly, a better person.

The 212 Arts Center has filled a need in the community for a place for artists to gather, share ideas, and exhibit. I have enjoyed the art of many local artists who have had shows. Thanks to the staff, the atmosphere is welcoming and open to all art mediums and artisits.
I have had the pleasure of taking several classes also. They have been wonderful, with enthusiastic teachers and comfortable space. The foundation has made it possible for all to learn within the community with classes geared to many interests at affordable prices.
212 is a shining star for Saline and surrounding communities.

My mom and I have enjoyed numerous classes at 212 Arts Center since it's opening. While participating we not only furthered our educational needs, but also developed a sense of comraderie with fellow students and 212 volunteers and staff. As my mom became less independent everyone went out of their way to make accessibilty a "#1" priority. We especially appreciate all their efforts and attention. In addition, 212 is conscious of financial constaints and offers senior discounts which greatly increased our ability to many more classes. Now, as we sit at home together, we have fond memories of our classes and friends at 212. One day I will return alone, but nothing can diminish the 212 memories I will always have of MOM and me.

Since the opening of the Two Twelve Arts Center, I have participated in the artist gathering, as well as taking classes. The artist gathering forum once a week, is of great value to the support of the artist community in the Saline, Michigan geographic area. The psychological, emotional and exhibit support offered by this Two Twelve Arts Center launches many an artist into a full time career. This is a most supportive environment, and an economic boost to our area as well.
Linda Kortesoja Klenczar

Two Twelve Arts Center is truly an organization that makes the community, and all who come to know it, a better place. The people who run the center couldn't be more talented or more friendly. They make art approachable at every level. They are so very supportive of artists in the community, as well as those wanting to learn and grow as artists. I am so proud to be associated with them on every level and look forward to attending more classes, teaching classes in the future, and volunteering and growing with them. I came to Michigan from New York not knowing many people here, with an interest in the arts, a hope to find friends in a place where I'd feel at home. Two Twelve Arts is that and more.

I've enjoyed several shows at the Two Twelve Arts Center (Cowan Slavin Foundation).

I've taken 3 classes at 212 and have attended the Friday Cakeeaters group. Everyone has been very supportive and welcoming. It is wonderful to enjoy such creativity in my own community! Over the years I've been involved in the Ann Arbor Community, but it is a great joy to see Saline grow in this special way.

Diane Friese

My daughter has taken several classes at 212 and just loved them .The classes are not just knowledge but inspiration .The intructors are kind and really caring. I also toke a pottery class with my daughter and it was just a great experience and we made some lovely things . I really love having such a special place in my community-we are really lucky.

212 is not just an extremely fine arts center for people of all ages and interests; it is an ever growing community of makers, writers, performers, painters, drawers, etc., who share in life together. Art is our motivation to meet, to grow, to accomplish and to expand our appreciation of all the gifts given us. Artists often work alone, but believe it or not, we are very competitive. 212 offers opportunities for we who are are mostly "hobby artists", to compete in challenges. Challenges take most any assignment and require the artist to create the most exciting little exhibit from cigar boxes, scraps, vintage items, fabric bits, etc. It is pure joy to see what each brings to the table after spending a month or so assembling what is more or less junk into the most charming, expressive, colorful, tasteful creation that in some way says something new about the universe. Well, what it says probably tells us more about the materials from which it was made and the person who made it, but we don't take that too seriously. We all know it is the process or journey and not the destination that counts.

My daughters have taken classes @ 212 Art Center and have LOVED them. Not only has 212 blessed our family with a wide variety of class options. They have also blessed others from around the world. We have had families from Honduras come and stay with us while their child received open heart surgery. 212 has generously offered complimentary classes to these moms, translators, and even the children!! Wonderful jewelry creations can be seen in Latin America thanks to 212 Art Center!!

I love the Cowan Slavin Foundation! They have generously supported the art community in Saline for nearly five years now. I have taken several classes at the Two Twelve Arts Center and have thoroughly enjoyed each one. They have always provided a welcome atmosphere for all area artists, children, and adults with an interest in art! Thank you!!

Two Twelve Arts Center is a wonderful source of art education, and they have excellent exhibits. The staff is outstanding. They have been very supportive of my art, and in helping me become an active part of the Saline art community. They have many opportunities available for artists to display and sell their art, and they provide a place where artists can get together for support and exchange information and ideas.

My sons attended "Saline 'Zine" at 212 Arts Center. They learned so much about researching, interviewing, writing, reviewing and editing a magazine. It was an amazing educational opportunity. Plus, they had the time of their lives! They learned so much and had such fun. It was wonderful in every aspect.

My daughters took classes through the 212 Arts Center, and they really grew in their appreciation and enjoyment of creating art. The staff were always helpful and fun, and the prices were very, very reasonable.

212 Arts Center is composed of a marvelous group of creative, caring individuals. They consistently offer their services to community organizations with little or no compensation. An example is, 212 Art On The Go, which will offer free art training classes to teens who attend The Fifth Corner, Saline's new teen center. They also contribute art to an annual auction which raises funds for The Food Gatherers, a local organization which collects and re-distributes food for those in need.
212 has raised the public perception of the value of art and I am really glad to have them in Saline.

Two Twelve Art Center is an awesome place. I have attended many workshops and all were just what I hoped they would be and more. The instructors and staff are always courteous and helpful. I have made friends that that I now see at other events around the area. We are so fortunate to have Two Twelve Art Center in our area.

This wonderful art gem in downtown Saline, MI is warm and welcoming with great local art with deals and invitations to special art exhibits. Very convenient and easy drive from Ann Arbor where we live.

212 Arts Center serves as a learning resource center of art of all kinds and for artists of all ages. It is a major networking center for artists to meet artists and share ideas, information, and business contacts. It is a place where inspiration and support is given and received. Weekly classes, open art studio and social meetings have enhanced my personal life and my art immeasurably.

I am an adult and have taken two classes there so far. They are reasonably priced and the classes are kept to a small size so everyone can get extra help when needed. I have so much fun there and will be taking another class when I can fit it into my schedule. The instructors are great, knowledgeable and talented. Such a great way to destress and let your creative juices flow, even if you don't think you have any!

Two Twelve Art Center has created an environment that both nurtures and showcases creativity in our community. The classes offered are led by top-notch instructors and reasonably priced. Two Twelve consciously reaches out to the community in a variety of ways -- classes off-site, booths at community events, and collaborating on art exhibitions with local artist groups and merchants. Their Artist of the Month series provides publicity and a place for local artists to put their best work before the public. Two Twelve has also teamed up with the local library to bring those same Artist of the Month exhibits into the library when the show is taken down at the Art Center. Two Twelve is a jewel, staffed by extraordinary people.

My daughter attended Fairy Camp at the Two Twelve Arts Center. It was the highlight of her summer!!! The staff was so sweet with the girls and opened their creativity as they explored every aspect of fairies. The week ended with the most perfect tea party celebration.

Both my son and daughter have done pottery as well with Two Twelve Arts. Again, great staff and projects. The kids are begging me to sign them up for an upcoming class.

After spending two years in Singapore, Asia, my 13 year old daughter returned to the States wanting to continue her pottery lessons. A friend mentioned Two Twelve Arts Center as a great place to start. She was right! My daughter joined the pottery class instructed by Kathy. She found it to be welcoming and flexible with group instruction and one on one instruction. She has been able to include her own creativity into her pottery and increase her skills. We look forward to another session!!

Two Twelve Art Center offers a great opportunity for all artists, children through adult, amateur or professional, to become involved in an artistic community. With classes, resources, and networking opportunities, it's a great place to meet other artists as well as expand and share your skills.

Two Twelve Arts has made a huge difference in the lives of creative people in Saline. It has given us a place to meet, exchange ideas, learn from one another, and form a supportive community. Though I had lived here for 15 years before Two Twelve opened, I didn't know any of the local artists, and few other citizens. Now, as a result of attending weekly meetings, I am familiar with people in all parts of the city, including local government, business owners, doctors, dentists, as well as artists in all disciplines. The downtown business district has benefited by participating in art related events, which have attracted customers who may not have otherwise entered the business. The area is being revitalized, as a result of Two Twelve sponsored activities.

212 Art Center offers a welcoming community for area artists to expand their knowledge and share resources.