FOCUS45

What is FOCUS45?

FOCUS45 is The Sunset Project's creative-based program focused on the development, implementation, and support of culturally enriching and placemaking projects in Northeast Michigan.

Named for Northeast Michigan's iconic relationship to the 45th parallel and The Sunset Project's committed "focus" to the region, the FOCUS45 Program works to make our communities a better place for people to live, work, and recreate. FOCUS45 currently houses a number of individual and recurring projects, all of which use creative placemaking strategies as the catalyst for positive change across Northeast Michigan.

Recurring Projects

FOCUS45 currently hosts two annual creative-based competitions focused on building new creative communities and enriching those that already exist across Northeast Michigan.

FOCUS45 Amateur Photography Contest

Hosted each year from October 1 through October 31, this project brings in over 900 participants from every county in our service region.

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Sanctuary Selections Film Competition

Developed in partnership with the Thunder Bay International Film Festival, this project brings in filmmakers from across the Great Lakes Region.

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What Is Creative Placemaking?

Creative Placemaking is an urban planning and community development concept emphasizing the use of arts and culture to transform and revitalize public spaces and communities.

At The Sunset Project, we believe that arts and culture play an important role in the long-term development of our region's rural communities. Whether through community enhancement projects, arts, and creative-based competitions, or new opportunities for economic growth, our FOCUS45 Program is paving the way for a better and brighter Northeast Michigan. Interested in learning more about our approach to Creative Placemaking across the region? Contact us today!