History of the Crystal Lake Art Center

The Crystal Lake Art Colony began in 1948 in a horse stable on Sutter Road across from Crystal Downs Golf Club. After a fire destroyed the building in 1957, it was rebuilt.

In 1986, the art center was reorganized, and ultimately the group merged with the Benzie Area Arts Council and became the Crystal Lake Art Center as we know it today.

Much time was spent rebuilding and developing programming. Soon limited space, lack of winterization, and accessibility issues became apparent. Now we look towards our move to the Former Coast Guard Station.