The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan is pleased to announce the opening of three major exhibitions as part of the museum’s 2026 exhibit schedule. These new installations highlight the museum’s mission to provide culturally rich, educational, and historically engaging content.

History in Focus: The Photography of Fred Trelfa On display Jan. 23 until April 4 in the Trelfa Gallery Fred Trelfa (1886-1979) began photographing in 1907 and spent more than seven decades documenting life in Northeast Michigan. His collection grew to more than 5,000 historical images, many of which were donated to the museum in 1981. This exhibit showcases a curated sample from that gift.

The Karen Cracchiolo Solo Exhibit will be on display from Jan. 23 until July 18 in the Center Gallery. There will be an artist meet and greet onFeb. 21, from 1p.m. until 3 p.m.

Artist Karen Cracchiolo discovered her passion for painting following retirement. She works in watercolor, pen, ink, collage, and acrylics. A public reception on Feb. 21 will give visitors an opportunity to meet the artist and learn about her creative journey.

The Divine Comedy Re-Envisioned On display Jan. 23 through July 18 in the Wilson Gallery This exhibit explores foundational cultural influencers–Homer (8th century BCE), Virgil (1st century CE), and Dante (13th century CE)–and features 40 Salvador Dalí woodblock prints illustrating scenes from Dante’s The Divine Comedy.

To deepen visitors’ engagement with The Divine Comedy, the museum has scheduled a series of educational presentations led by regional experts, scholars, and artists.

The Special Presentation Series Schedule includes “The Hero’s Journey” on Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. and is presented by Dr. Priscilla Homola, longtime English instructor and expert in mythology.

Dali and Freud: Inquiry Into Art and Dreams – Part 1 is on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. and presented by Dr. Kelly Bushéy, psychologist, speaker, and educator.

Surrealist Poetry Reading & Discussion will be held on March 5 at 6 p.m. and led by Alpena Community College art instructor and multidisciplinary artist Brian Schorn.

Dali and Freud: Art and Psychology – Part 2 will be on March 26 at 6 p.m. and presented by Dr. Kelly Bushéy, psychologist, speaker, and educator.

Block Printing Workshop is on April 2 at 6 p.m. and local artist Poppy Cornelius will teach participants how to carve, ink, and print using rubber blocks. The workshop is $35 per person and open to ages 15 and older. All supplies will be provided. Registration is required.

Dali and Freud: Artist Meets Hero – Part 3 is slated for April 23 at 6 p.m. and presented by Dr. Kelly Bushéy, psychologist, speaker, and educator.

Dali and Freud: Artist’s Evolution and Faith – Part 4 is planned for May 28 at 6 p.m. and presented by Dr. Kelly Bushéy, psychologist, speaker, and educator.

For more information on exhibits and presentations, visit bessermuseum.org.