Anna Gersh, interim executive director of Creative Washtenaw, presented to the Ann Arbor Public Art Commission on May 7 about current programs and partnership opportunities, including the a2 Jazz Fest partnership, the Traveling Sound Museum and plans for a Creative Washtenaw membership party this fall.

Gersh described two upcoming Traveling Sound Museum events that combine instrument making, science exhibits and intergenerational activities: a free event at Odindi Freedom School on May 15 and a second at Ypsilanti Community Middle School on May 22. “You should come and check it out because it's free and open to the public,” Gersh said.

She also described Creative Washtenaw’s Power Art project — 11 new painted utility boxes added this season, 47 total to date — and said the program is transitioning to a new project in collaboration with House Into Home. Gersh invited commission members to attend Creative Washtenaw convenings such as the Cultural Leaders Forum (May 16) and the organization’s monthly happy hour (May 28 in Chelsea) and suggested the commission consider participating in Creative Washtenaw’s Oct. 15 party at Washtenaw Community College as a platform to share commission initiatives.

Gersh also described Groundcover News, the local street paper she chairs, and noted Creative Washtenaw’s work to convene local artists and regrant opportunities.

Commissioners thanked Gersh and asked staff to circulate her contact information and event dates; several commissioners suggested Commission representation at Creative Washtenaw events to strengthen cross‑sector collaboration.