In this episode of U-M Creative Currents, join host Mark Clague as he interviews Chrisstina Hamilton, producer and director of the University of Michigan's prestigious Penny Stamps Distinguished Speaker Series and Roman Witt Visiting Artist Program. This special episode is part of a U-M Creative Currents' podcast series building excitement for the inaugural Michigan Arts Festival (September 25 - October 26, 2025).

Before joining the Stamps School of Art & Design, Chrisstina directed the Ann Arbor Film Festival and has extensive experience with film and media projects both nationally and internationally. She brings an impressive lineup of thought leaders and inspiring artistic voices to campus across visual art, design, music, theater, and dance, with a fantastic lineup planned for the Michigan Arts Festival.

Featured Speakers include:

• Rhiannon Giddens (Sept 25) - U-M Arts Initiative Artist-in-Residence
• Gary Graham (Oct. 2) - Fashion designer
• Emilie Monnet (Oct. 9) - Playwright
• Mario Moore (Oct. 16) - Artist, painter, and "time traveler"
• Jacob Collier (Oct. 20) - In partnership with Ann Arbor Symphony

*Production Note: This episode is part of U-M Creative Currents' special Michigan Arts Festival podcast series which kicks off on September 25, 2025 and is produced by Jessica Jenks and edited by Sly Pup Productions.

• Subscribe to the Arts Initiative Newsletter
• Checkout our website
• Learn more about the Michigan Arts Festival