In this episode of U-M Creative Currents, host Mark Clague interviews Anya Sirota, designer, professor, and Senior Associate Dean for Academic Initiatives at the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. This episode is part of Creative Currents’ podcast series building excitement for the inaugural Michigan Arts Festival (September 25 – October 26, 2025).

Featured Programming & Highlights include:

• Rebetiko by France's Anima Theatre, October 24–25 at the Detroit Institute of Arts
• Weeklong campus residency with Taubman College students
• TV Lab and Taubman Lecture Series featuring innovative voices in design and architecture

Anya discusses her role leading Akoaki, a design practice working at the intersection of architecture, urbanism, and social engagement. She shares insights on the Detroit Cultural Center Initiative, the learning design of Taubman’s studios, and how architecture can foster civic imagination, equity, and collective expression.

*Production Note: This episode is part of U-M Creative Currents' special Michigan Arts Festival podcast series and is edited by Sly Pup Productions.

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• Checkout our website
• Learn more about the Michigan Arts Festival