Location: Ohio

With roots in pre-World War II Ukraine, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus of North American—accompanied by a distinct stringed folk instrument—has been sharing songs about the country’s history and traditions for over a century.

Lee combines tradition, identity, and experimentation to bring the art of hanji to the Midwest and beyond.

Carolyn Mazloomi, now in her late 70s, has been quilting for decades. She calls the art both a passage and keepsake for stories—of struggle to survival and success.

If selected, they would be one of four Midwesterners to receive this early career recognition since the category’s inception in 2000.

Here’s your excuse to traverse the Midwest—in pursuit of cool art happenings! With your help, we compiled an array of bucket-list travel spots across the region with artsy ties. 

Paint from this Ohio company starts out as orange sludge from a polluted creek.

A writer, historian, and an artist from the Midwest are among the 2024 MacArthur Fellows. They will each receive an $800,000 grant, with no strings attached.

For Todd Perrine, being a good DJ is as much about the community you bring together as it is the music you play.

Victor Banis, who grew up in Preble County, Ohio, redefined LGBTQ+ literature and captured a global audience.

These state-specific gatherings are essential to capacity-building and connection in the arts field.