Scarab Club annual exhibitions

The Scarab Club of Detroit has been a central figure in the city’s art scene for over a century, initially fostering and showcasing Michigan artists before becoming a broader hub for cultural activity. Founded in the early 20th century, the organization’s history is intertwined with the development of Detroit’s artistic identity and its prominent role in the region’s cultural landscape. The club’s annual exhibitions, particularly the Michigan Artists Exhibition, were instrumental in providing a platform for local talent and shaping the artistic discourse of the time.

History

The Scarab Club originated around 1909 as the Hopkin Club, established to honor Robert Hopkin, a significant Detroit artist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Following Hopkin’s death in the same year, the club was renamed the Scarab Club. This transition marked the beginning of the organization’s evolution into a prominent force in Detroit’s art community. The club quickly took on an increasingly important role in the artistic and cultural life of the city, providing a space for artists to connect, exhibit their work, and engage in artistic discourse.

A pivotal moment in the Scarab Club’s history was the founding of the first Michigan Artists Exhibition in 1911. For nearly two decades, the Scarab Club sponsored this annual exhibition, providing a crucial platform for Michigan artists to showcase their work. In 1928, the Detroit Institute of Arts assumed responsibility for the Michigan Artists Exhibition, marking a shift in the exhibition’s administration but acknowledging the foundational role the Scarab Club played in its establishment and early success. Throughout its existence, the club has hosted a variety of art exhibitions, featuring diverse media and providing a venue for community art groups.

Culture

The Scarab Club’s influence extended beyond visual arts exhibitions to encompass social events, most notably the Scarab Ball. During the first third of the 20th century, the Scarab Ball was a major social event in Detroit, attracting prominent figures such as General Knudson, members of the Ford and Alger families, and the Dodges and Booths. These lavish masquerade balls, often held at the clubhouse or other grand venues, were significant social gatherings for Detroit’s elite. The club’s activities fostered a vibrant artistic and social atmosphere, contributing to the cultural richness of the city.

The Scarab Club continues to operate as a focal point for organized artists' activities in Detroit. Its clubhouse, located in the city’s Cultural Center, is situated near the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Center for Creative Studies, and the Detroit Science Center. The club’s enduring presence reflects its commitment to supporting the arts and fostering a creative community in Detroit. The records of the Scarab Club, spanning from approximately 1910 to 2000, provide valuable documentation of its membership, events, exhibitions, and overall history.

Geography

The Scarab Club is located at 217 Farnsworth Street in Detroit, Michigan. This location places it within the city’s Cultural Center, a hub for arts and cultural institutions. The proximity to the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Center for Creative Studies, and the Detroit Science Center underscores the Scarab Club’s integration into the broader cultural landscape of Detroit. The club’s location facilitates collaboration and interaction with other artistic organizations and institutions in the area.

The clubhouse itself is described as an accomplished example of eclectic architecture from the early twentieth century. Architect Lancelot Sukert was chosen to design the building in 1927. The building’s architectural character contributes to its historical significance and its role as a landmark within the Cultural Center. The clubhouse has served as a venue for exhibitions, social events, and other artistic activities throughout its history.

See Also

• Detroit Institute of Arts
• Cultural Center Historic District
• History of Detroit