On May 23, The Flint Monster Society hosted its fourth annual Sinister Swamp Meet at Flint Local 432, with over 130 people in attendance.
The Flint Monster Society was created by Chris Rignler in 2022. The goal of the Flint Monster society is to bring “more affordable weirdness” to Flint and Mid-Michigan.
“These sorts of events are important to help foster the arts and creative scene this area has, and to encourage people to get out there, get involved, and to bring a little more weird,” Ringler said. “I really love finding ways to promote and support the great creatives in the area… to remind folks how many incredibly talented people are right here.”
The free event hosted 13 vendors, including Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers, Paul Counelis and David Hayes. With a variety of arts such as jewelry, illustrations and figurines. The day concluded with live acoustic performances from Not a Cult, Gustine and Dr. Cujo.
Emily Coleman, owner and vendor of Dark Luxe Candle Company, said these events allow individuals to express themselves.
“It lets people have their creativity outside of their nine-to-five job… it makes me a better person by allowing me to express myself, and people get to appreciate the work I’m doing,” Coleman said.
Samuel Royer, an attendee, said this event allows a buyer to connect with the artist.
“I think that generally in the modern day, all ways of consumption are kind of obfuscated by companies that are larger.” Royer said, “And so you don’t really have any real relationship with the artisans that are directly involved in their craft.”
Rylie Yeiter is a writer for the Michigan Times and can be reached at jasobii@umich.edu.
