Michigan State University - So Much More Than Football and Farming
Growing up 10 minutes down the road from Michigan State University I knew it for two things; farming, and football. I never really came to explore the campus or check out the festivals and art that it had to offer. So I was blown away to discover the artistic side to this Big 10 University. Here are four reasons MSU is bringing culture to college.
MSU MUSEUM
The MSU Museum is a hidden gem on campus that focuses on Michigan's LONG history. And when I'm talking history, I mean they have dinosaur skeletons and ancient bones to check out. While I expected things like this from the Michigan History Center downtown, I was surprised to find so many artifacts in the MSU Museum. With science and historical culture exhibits, it was easy to see why this place was Michigan's first Smithsonian Institute Affiliate.
ELI & EDYTHE BROAD ART MUSEUM
The MSU Broad, as it's known, is amazing to check out for the exterior architecture alone! This building is so cool it was even used in the Batman vs. Superman movie. The MSU Broad opened in 2012 and is a contemporary art museum. As well as a gallery, the museum is used as a teaching institution and features rotating exhibitions.
THE WHARTON CENTER
This performing arts center has a special place in my heart as it’s where my love for the arts and theater began. The Cobb great hall seats over 2400 and features traveling broadway shows, as well as concerts, and other performances. The Pasant Theatre seats over 500 and is a more intimate space used for their One-Act Family and School Series. The Wharton Center is used for workshops, huge performances, and intimate plays. It’s a college theater as well as an award-winning production venue.
EAST LANSING ART FESTIVAL
Every spring the Michigan State campus is consumed with art and culture during the East Lansing Art Festival. What began as the Greenwich Village Days back in 1964, now brings in tens of thousands of visitors to campus to check out the over 100 artists and creators. A festival full of food, music, and a variety of art, this event blew me away! It seemed to go on forever and there was something new and exciting in every direction. If you’re ever in the Lansing area when this festival is happening, I highly recommend checking it out.
One of the amazing things about the Lansing area is that it's not only a capital city but it's also home to an amazing Big 10 University. This means not only an incredible college and exciting sports teams but also a town full of culture and art. Just one more reason to GO GREEN!
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