“The Shaft” Is Back in Hancock: 29 Works Inspired by Copper Country Mining
Tim Peters at The Keweenaw Report has a heads-up for anyone in town this month: “The Shaft” is back at the Copper Country Community Arts Center in Hancock. It’s the Art Center’s annual community show, and it “encourages artists to submit work inspired by the Copper Country’s extensive mining heritage,” whether that’s the history itself, the marks mining left on the land, or what it meant for the people who lived it.
The Details
- What: 29 pieces from a range of local artists, in the Art Center’s Cote Exhibition Gallery.
- When: On display now through Dec. 6. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Opening reception: Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., during the Art Center’s annual Party with the Arts. Expect live music, food and a silent art auction. It’s open to the public.
- Where: The corner of Quincy and Tezcuco streets in downtown Hancock. Questions: 906-482-2333 or coppercountryarts.com.
Why It’s Worth the Stop
Mining is the reason most of the towns up here exist, and you can’t drive through Hancock without seeing it. The Quincy Mine’s No. 2 shaft house still stands on the hill above town, and old rock piles and foundations turn up all over the peninsula. A show built around that history, made by people who live with it every day, is a good way to see the Copper Country through local eyes instead of a plaque.
It’s also a smart pick for this time of year. Mid-November is a quiet stretch in the Keweenaw, after the fall color and before winter really settles in. If you’re up visiting a student at MTU, in town for deer season, or just looking for something to do on a gray afternoon, an indoor gallery just across the bridge from Houghton fits the bill. And if you’re starting holiday shopping, a silent auction of local art beats the big-box stores.
One tip: the Saturday hours are short, so plan a weekday visit or catch the Thursday reception if you can.
Read the full announcement at The Keweenaw Report: Copper Country Community Arts Center presents “The Shaft” exhibition.
Coming up to see a student, catch a show or just get away for a few days? Our Keweenaw cabins and rentals, including spots close to MTU, make an easy home base. Book direct at vaultventures.co and skip the platform fees.