Michigan Creates
ABOUT MICHIGAN CREATES:
Explore the vibrant arts and culture landscape of Michigan, a state with a thriving creative ecosystem that has birthed iconic movements like Motown and The Purple Rose Theater. Home to legendary musicians, writers, and artists, Michigan boasts a rich tapestry of cultural heritage known worldwide. Michigan Creates is a podcast series that will connect listeners with gifted artists and cultural institutions that are nurturing Michigan's vibrant creative landscape.
PODCAST HOST:
Join your host, Ara Topouzian, an award-winning Armenian musician and advocate for the arts in Michigan. Ara will converse with artists and cultural institutions while exploring the intersection of music and culture and highlighting their work to bolster the artist community that sustains Michigan's creative economy.
Michigan Creates
Latest Episodes
The Unexpected Role of Armenian Music in Rebuilding Identity After 1915
Most of us underestimate the power of what we carry forward—until a moment like this. Ara Topouzian reflects on the deeply personal significance of Armenian Heritage Month, revealing how mus...
Why Your Art Alone Isn't Enough Anymore — The Case for Building a Personal Brand
Most artists are told to create — but in today’s digital world, that’s only half the story. Building a recognizable brand around your work is now essential for survival. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise or unsure how to stand out wi...
The Surprising Journey From Flute to Conductor That Changed Her Life | Nan Washburn, Conductor
Most orchestras focus on tradition. This one is rewriting the rules — from innovative programming to boosting diversity — all under the leadership of a trailblazing female conductor who's breaking barriers in American music. If you believe live...
Business in the Key of D: Helping Michigan Musicians Master the Business Side of Music | Chris Simpson
On this episode of Michigan Creates, Ara Topouzian sits down with Wayne State University alum and musician Chris Simpson to explore what it really takes to build a sustainable career in today’s music industry.Chris shares his jo...
Invisible Isn’t Failing: A Reflection on Artists, Art Organizations, and What Quietly Disappears
After more than two years of interviewing artists and arts organizations across Michigan, host Ara Topouzian pauses for a short, personal reflection. There’s no guest today—just an honest observation about visibility, sustainability, and...
