Adrian College’s Hickman Gallery to host Michigan Contemporary Craft Exhibition
Posted Wednesday, April 22, 2026
ADRIAN, Mich. — Adrian College’s Hickman Gallery will host the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute’s (SBWI) 2026 Michigan Contemporary Craft Exhibition with a public reception Friday, May 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The exhibition will feature original work by graduating students in SBWI’s Wood Design Program alongside work by SBWI faculty and alumni through Saturday, July 18.
The SBWI is a nonprofit school for woodworking and contemporary craft based in Adrian. SBWI offers immersive, hands-on education in woodworking, furniture design, wood sculpture, and timber framing, serving students at all levels from beginners to aspiring professionals.
The first week of the exhibition, May 29 to June 5, will showcase this year’s graduating students in SBWI’s flagship Wood Design program and continues through July 18 featuring SBWI faculty and alumni.
The annual show offers visitors a chance to experience the creativity, technical skill, and personal vision of SBWI’s graduating woodworkers while connecting directly with the artists behind the work. Pieces on display will be available for purchase, and guests will also have the opportunity to meet students and discuss commissions.
“This exhibition is a celebration of craftsmanship, design, and the incredible growth our students during their time at SBWI,” said Luke Barnett, SBWI president. “It’s also an invitation for the public to encounter the timeless art of woodworking as it evolves here in Michigan.”
Hickman Gallery provides a new setting for this year’s exhibition and reflects the deepening collaboration between the two institutions. In previous years, the show was held at the Adrian Armory. This year’s move marks a new chapter in SBWI’s partnership with Adrian College as the schools continue to explore future educational pathways and expanded collaboration in architecture and engineering.
“Hosting the Michigan Contemporary Craft Show at Hickman Gallery marks an exciting step in our growing partnership. It’s a privilege to welcome these artists to campus and celebrate not only their skill and dedication, but also the vibrant creative community we are continuing to build together,” said Travis Erxleben, Chair of the Department of Art at Adrian College. “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to hands-on learning, creative exploration, and expanding meaningful pathways for students in craft, design, and the built environment.”
For more information about the Hickman Gallery, email Erxleben at terxleben@adrian.edu. For more information about SBWI, email Luke Barnett at Luke@SBWI.edu.
