cranbrook on the green at cranbrook art museum

May 15, 2025

“Each summer, visitors to Cranbrook Art Museum can experience a “hole” new dimension of the historic campus with our miniature golf course, inspired by the art and design of Cranbrook. Sink a putt at custom-designed, art-inspired holes on the beautiful grounds of the Cranbrook Art Museum, next to the Knoll Walkway and Triton Pool. “

Miniature golf is back with two new holes this season including Pachyderm Playtime. Charles Eames is famous for his iconic lounge chair but what is lesser known is the development of a small child’s chair employing a series of animal designs. These chairs were not put into production until 2007 where 1000 elephant chairs were manufactured in celebration of Eames’ 100^th birthday.

Cranbrook founder George Gough Booth built Lake Jonah in 1933 which became a gathering place where community members could swim during the summer. Swimming was discontinued in 1999, but the pools remain a favorite feature on campus. An elevated hole requires a bit of ingenuity to play.

The round opens with Gateway and its highly familiar architectural elements quoting George Booth’s belief that ‘a life without beauty is only half lived’. I couldn’t agree more.

Hadn’t noticed this installation before and with no indication of what it is or who made it, I assume it’s part of the Cranbrook Academy of Art graduate show that’s going on now. While set just steps above the golf course and not intended to be played, it contributes to the whimsical, creative vibe of the summer grounds.

Art’s job is to inspire the visitor to view the world in a new way. Lately its reflected social and political turbulence providing critical insight to personal experiences. Cranbrook Museum launched this summer attraction as the pandemic was concluding unsure how it would be met. It’s been a hit since it opened. Nothing better than goofy fun and laughter in a lush setting for necessary respite as we navigate the currently treacherous water of contemporary living.

Open May 3^rd through September 28^th at Cranbrook on the Green 39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills. Tee times on the website.

*images are mine

direct quote from museum materials

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