Ypsi Stories Episode 26: Ypsi Experimental Space and the Ineffable Spirit of Community Creativity

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Ypsi Experimental Space was started by accident on Jan.1, 2016 at the site of a former drugstore turned black box theater (8 N. Washington Street) and ended by eminent domain on Jan.1, 2023. While it remains a mystery as to why YES came into existence and little is known about the perpetrators who were said to have started this madcap venture, the main premise was ostensibly to cause some creative mayhem from time to time.

Besides the playing of ping-pong, slideshow karaoke, and showing of films, there were reportedly evenings consisting entirely of experimental poetry, music, politics, theater, and a broad range of impromptu performances and exhibitions that still defy description. Occasionally YES was even turned into 8, an intimate experimental dinner theater, where 8 delicious courses were paired with outrageous provocations by creative miscreants. While the YES space itself no longer exists, the creative spirit lives on in the lives of all who entered its hallowed portal.

More about our speakers

Donald Harrison

Donald Harrison started 7 Cylinders Studio in 2012 and serves as lead producer & director, working on client projects. He’s produced and directed the feature documentary Welcome to Commie High and several short films that have screened nationally. He’s taught film & video courses at the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, and The Neutral Zone in Ann Arbor. Donald was Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Film Festival from 2008-2012, including its historic 50th season. He worked and studied at Film Arts Foundation in San Francisco (2001-2006) and received a bachelor of arts in social psychology from the University of Michigan (1995). Donald is also a co-founder & co-chair of independent Film Festival Ypsilanti (iFFY).

Mark Tucker

Mark Tucker is the Art Director and visual arts instructor for the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science, and the Arts’ Lloyd Scholars for Writing and the Arts program. Mark worked in Detroit, Boston, Italy, and Germany for 15 years as a freelance professional artist, parade float designer, set designer, and scenic artist for museums, theater, ballet, opera, feature films, and television. As the Founder of FestiFools and co-founder of FoolMoon, Mark’s students and community members have produced signature creative content for these beloved annual public art spectacles featuring giant puppets, magical luminary sculptures, and unique interactive performance art.

Return to Ypsi Stories Home

YES was started on Dec. 11th, 2015 and located behind the MIX store at 8 N. Washington Street until Jan. 1st, 2024

MIX owners Bonnie and Ed Penet gave the go-ahead to start YES!

Inside the Ypsilanti Experimental Space

The images and videos on this page illustrate the story of the space. Click on the images to view the larger versions. Keep scrolling for videos and images that really take you inside!