2024.41

Found in Collection

To view this recording, scroll down to the bottom of this entry and click the blue web link. This video was created by Saugatuck-Douglas History Center volunteers or was donated to the Center in a good faith effort to preserve local history. If you feel this content should not be available to the public — or have additional information that will add context to this interview — please contact the SDHC Archives at [email protected].

YouTube summary (generated by AI): Nov 4, 2025 SAUGATUCK Mike Van Ark (b.1929) was interviewed on March 1, 2010, by John Shack, Mary Voss, Jack Sheridan, and Ken Kutzel Mike Van Ark was hired as business manager at Ox-Bow in 1957, during a period of transition as the organization shifted focus from fine art to crafts. He faced financial challenges, including a lack of funds and the need to reorganize the corporation as a nonprofit. Mike managed various aspects of Ox-Bow, including facilities, food service, and student accommodations, often improvising solutions due to limited resources. Van Ark highlights the diverse personalities and roles of the people involved. He mentions the hotel register, the responsibilities of the board president, and the various cottages built by different individuals. The speaker also shares memories of Mary Kay, the caretaker, and Gene, who was always adorned with jewelry. Mike discusses the history of the school and the evolution of its buildings. He recalls the contributions of instructors like Bill Brinka, Leroy Neiman, and Burr Tilstrom, and mentions the tradition of burying objects at the end of each year. The conversation also touches on the ongoing efforts to document Ox-Bow’s history. Facing financial challenges, the school relied on sales of artwork. A geodesic dome, built for studio space, was a temporary solution due to financial constraints. The school offered sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, and painting, with a focus on landscape and figure work. The school has since expanded its facilities and now has a full-time director, with funding playing a significant role in its operations.