I really don’t consider myself an artist. I like art; I like to think I understand art, but I am not really good at making art. I think it’s that I don’t really have the patience to sit down and create something the way I envision it in my head.

Yet still, on a lazy winter afternoon, I felt drawn to an event listing at the Ann Arbor Art Center. The Whole Planet-Artful Dreams of Peace Workshop. The event was a free Global Art Project for adults and kids. Participants would utilize the Art Center’s materials and instructors to create their own work of peace.

I called to reserve seats for myself and three kids and inquire a bit more about the project.

“Will it really take two whole hours?”

“Yes.”

The event was sponsored by Whole Foods in conjunction with the Whole Planet Foundation’s Global Art Project. The idea is that over the next few months, people from all over the earth will take the time to create art that represents their view of peace. Then in April, the foundation will coordinate a mass mailing exchange of worldwide ideas of peace. My project will be shipped somewhere far away, and I will receive a piece from someone somewhere else. All of the works will be displayed in the local communities.

If you would like a chance to see the works before they get shipped off, today is your day. Whole Foods on Washtenaw Avenue is having a light artists’ reception to show the art. One and all are invited to view the art and enjoy light drinks and delicious snacks for a donation of $5.

Some of the pieces have rainbows and glitter.

Some are three dimensional. Some are surprising.

All are inspiring and will be on display at the Art that is Local Gallery inside Whole Foods.

If you are so inspired, more information about how to get involved with the Whole Planet Foundation’s Global Art Project is available at www.global-art.org.

Another upcoming Whole Foods Art project is already underway. Learn more about "Dreaming of a Greener World" Recycled Art Sculpture Contest here.

What: Ann Arbor Art Center's Whole Planet-Artful Dreams of Peace Exhibit opening reception to benefit the Whole Planet Foundation

Where: Ann Arbor Whole Foods, Art That is Local Gallery on the mezzanine level

When: 5-7 p.m. Friday, February 19

Suggested donation: $5 or more to the Whole Planet Foundation

For more information: Phone Whole Foods Market at (734) 975-4500

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.