MIX Pop-Up and 2026 Calendar Launch

Join Us for an Evening of “Cutting Edge Kicks”!

We’re “kicking off” 2026 with a celebration of KICKS! Join us for a two-part Pop-Up MIX event. Meet us at HUB Bar & Grill on the Kalamazoo Mall for networking and the unveiling of MIX 2026 calendar. Then, please plan to take a short walk to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and immerse yourself in the inspiring new exhibit titled:

The KIA is open to the public for free on Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. This unique traveling exhibit:

“This innovative national exhibition features nearly 60 state-of-the-art designs pushing the boundaries of what footwear can be. Exhibiting an incredible mix of fashion, design, gaming, new media, architecture, and material arts as well as sustainable and collaborative practices, the exhibition showcases work by designers as diverse as Rem D. Koolhaas and Zaha Hadid, innovators Mr. Bailey and Salehe Bembury, as well as designs made in collaboration with fashion icons Rick Owens, Stella McCartney, and Yohji Yamamoto, and top gaming and innovation companies such as PlayStation, Gravity Sketch, and more.”

“Future Now is a natural fit for Kalamazoo—a community that champions creativity, education, entrepreneurship, and making.”

Join the MIX as we bring together creative professionals for networking, collaboration, and inspiration in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. This is an opportunity to connect with fellow creatives, spark new ideas, and get an exclusive first look at the 2026 calendar.

What to Expect

• Networking – Connect with industry peers and expand your creative circle
• Creative Conversations – Engage in discussions about design, innovation, and industry trends.
• Innovative Ideas – Share projects, exchange insights, and find inspiration.
• 2026 Calendar Launch – Be among the first to see what’s ahead.
• Casual Atmosphere – No formal program, just meaningful connections.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the creative community, build new connections, and explore fresh ideas. We look forward to seeing you!

About MIX

Engage area creatives and designers to curate content for a regional design-centric program that will inspire innovation, connect designers from different disciplines and encourage collaboration. Interactions encourage relationships between all sectors of design professionals to “raise the bar” on design professionals and create vibrant connections with Western Michigan University Design focused students (RIDI & Engineering) and the creative community.

Also check out other Arts events in Kalamazoo.