july 24-25

When Chuck Marshall first launched GIG – The Art of Michigan Music, it was with a simple but powerful question: Why isn’t the art of music itself celebrated as fine art?

“I was inspired to create GIG because, as I got into photographing local music, I met a ton of exceptional visual artists who were crafting amazing artwork for gig posters, album covers, cd booklets, t-shirts, you name it,” Marshall said. “There are so many avenues for a traditional visual artist to display their work at a gallery, so why isn’t the visual art of music represented?”

Are you a familiar with concert posters of the past: the letterpress cardboard posters of the 1950s and early ’60s; the colorful screen-printed and lithographic psychedelic posters of the late ’60s and 1970s; the messy, xeroxed, DIY posters of the punk and new wave eras? You may be an admirer or even a collector, but what you might not know, unless you have been to a Manchester Underground show, is that Manchester is home to one of Michigan’s premier concert poster designers. Not only that, he and and his work will be featured at an upcoming expo celebrating the visual storytelling behind Michigan’s music scene.

While rock and roll photography has never put much money in Cidney Bundon’s pocket, there are certain shots she’s captured over the years that continue to sustain her appetite for going back into the sweaty mayhem of the pit.

Organizer Chuck Marshall describes his upcoming event, GIG – The Art of Michigan Music, as “a showcase for the visual artists in Michigan music,” including poster artists, concert photographers, album cover artists, and more.

As chief conference organizer Chuck Marshall puts it: “Anyone who loves Michigan music should attend GIG.”

And that includes “those working hard and making great music in our state. The visual arts are a key component to any band or musician’s brand and identity. By attending GIG, you can meet these talented artists and show your support for their work.”

GIG – The Art of Michigan Music 2025

Another fabulous GIG – The Art of Michigan Music is in the books. It was a full day highlighted by a celebration of the visual art of music. By far the best part of the day was spending it with so many wonderful people who enjoy art and music.