Besser museum closes for installation of patriotic-themed Season of Light exhibit
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ALPENA – The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan will be closed to the public from October 31 through November 22 as staff and volunteers prepare the museum for its annual Season of Light Exhibit.
This year's theme, "Let Freedom Ring," commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States, combining traditional Christmas décor with elements that recognize the nation's history and founding principles.
Museum staff are being assisted by sister design team DeLynn Medina and Laurie Anderson, who are helping create an exhibit that incorporates patriotic red, white, and blue elements while maintaining the atmosphere of a Christmas display.
Visitors will discover festive holiday décor thoughtfully interwoven with symbols of American history. Among the exhibit's featured elements will be the Wall of Presidents, highlighting each United States president and showcasing a selection of notable contributions made throughout the nation's history. Key principles and highlights from both the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights will also be integrated into the exhibit, encouraging visitors to reflect on the freedoms and values that have shaped America.
The Season of Light exhibit will also include several annual traditions. The museum's Avenue of Shops will be decorated for the holiday season. The Trees of Nations exhibit will display how cultural traditions from several different countries influenced how Americans celebrate the holidays today.
The community trees gallery will feature over 15 nonprofit organizations from Northeast Michigan, each showcasing a decorated tree that helps visitors learn about the organization's mission, programs, and services offered throughout the year.
The Season of Light celebration begins with the museum members only gala and raffle on Nov. 22, giving museum members an opportunity to preview the exhibit before it opens to the public.
"The members only Seasons of Light Gala and Raffle serves as a way to show our sincere appreciation to our museum members," said Christine Witulski, executive director of the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan. "It also serves as a membership drive. If someone is not a current member, they can join before Nov.22 and attend the Season of Light Gala and participate in the raffle."
This year's raffle includes more than 25 exciting prizes, featuring unique experiences, entertainment, dining, artwork, and jewelry. Among the many raffle opportunities to choose from are historic home tours, a two-night stay at the Henry House Bed & Breakfast, a Make-and-Take Leather Workshop for Two with Tom Moran at Iron One Studios in Onaway, a four-week pottery workshop with ceramic artist Joe Donna at the Industrial Arts Institute, and a Make-and-Take Holiday Wreath Workshop with florist Tara Wilson of Wilson's Lasting Expressions.
Another premier raffle prize offers a private art experience for two at the studio of nationally acclaimed artist Dorothea Sandra in Rogers City. Participants will enjoy personalized instruction and artistic guidance while creating their own unique masterpiece to take home. Details for each raffle prize are available on the Besser Museum website.
Museum members do not need to attend the Gala to participate in the raffle. Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling or visiting the museum, and winners do not need to be present to win.
Proceeds from the members only gala and raffle support the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan. Annual memberships provide operational support for the museum and include free admission to exhibits and festivals throughout the year, along with a 10% discount in the museum gift shop.
Community members interested in attending the gala and raffle are encouraged to become museum members before the event.
For more information about the Museum Members Only Gala and Raffle, becoming a museum member, or the Season of Light: Let Freedom Ring exhibit, visit www.bessermuseum.org, call 989-356-2202, or stop by the museum at 491 Johnson Street, Alpena, Michigan.