64AAFF Lobby Decorations Workshop

March 2, 2026

Lobby decor from the 63rd Ann Arbor Film Festival in the Grand Foyer of the Michigan Theater

Each year during the Ann Arbor Film Festival, the historic Michigan Theater becomes a gathering place for adventurous filmgoers. During festival week, the Grand Foyer is transformed with handmade decorations that immerse visitors in the spirit of artist-made experimental film, creating a vibrant, welcoming space that extends the experience beyond the screen.

This Saturday, you’re invited to help create that transformation.

Location: Ann Arbor District Library — Downtown Branch, Secret Lab (343 S. Fifth Ave.)

Date: Saturday March 7,2026 12-3pm

Wisconsin-based artist Noel Stupek has been creating AAFF’s lobby decorations since the 57th AAFF in 2019. Rather than working from a fixed blueprint, the process evolves organically — through gathering materials, responding intuitively to color and form, and allowing unexpected combinations to emerge. There’s intention behind the materials and overall direction, but also room for discovery, surprise, and play.

Workshop participants will help assemble and build the decorative elements that will fill the theater’s foyer. While you’ll be working within a shared visual language, there’s a genuine creative dynamic in how materials come together — small decisions, gestures, and variations that make the final installation feel alive.

No prior experience is needed. If you enjoy making, experimenting, or simply being part of a collective creative process, this workshop is for you.

See the Results — and Make More Art

In exchange for volunteering, participants will receive a ticket for the family-friendly “Almost All Ages” Short Films in Competition screening on Saturday, March 28 at 1:30pm at the Michigan Theater.

Earlier that same day, from 11:00am until the screening begins, the Pickle Fort Film Collective will host a free film loop workshop in the Michigan Theater’s Grand Foyer. Participants can draw and paint directly onto clear film leader to create handmade loops. Once completed, those loops will be projected onto the Michigan Theater’s main auditorium screen —  offering a chance to see your moving images flicker to life inside the historic auditorium.

The Ann Arbor Film Festival thrives because of the artists, filmmakers, and community members who contribute their time and energy. If you’d like to take part in shaping this year’s festival atmosphere — and enjoy a lively afternoon of making — join us at the AADL Secret Lab this Saturday, March 7th from 12-3pm!

The 64th Ann Arbor Film Festival takes place March 24-29, 2026 at the Michigan Theater in downtown Ann Arbor. Visit aafilmfest.org for the full festival lineup and to purchase passes and tickets today!