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Thumb area artists: Get your creative juices flowing and add your flair to the walls of the region’s only retro arcade, Bad Axe RetroCade.
Bad Axe RetroCade is putting out an exciting call to local artists to help decorate its space with retro-themed art. The arcade, known for its nostalgic collection of classic games and pinball machines, is looking to add a colorful artistic touch to its walls. The goal? To showcase artwork inspired by the 70s, 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, with themes spanning film, TV, music, comics, books, and gaming culture.
“We love our games, but the walls are looking a bit bare,” the post reads. “What better way to decorate than with art by local artists?”
Retro Art with a Twist: Showcase, Sell, or Donate
Artists are encouraged to submit any type of medium they prefer, whether it be acrylic, oil, or printed pieces—so long as it’s something that can be hung within the arcade. From vibrant pop culture portraits to playful gaming illustrations, the only limits are size and creativity. However, to ensure the artwork aligns with the family-friendly vibe of the arcade, submissions must avoid nudity, politics, religion, violence, substance use, or NSFW content.
Participants can also price their art for sale, with all proceeds going directly to the artist unless they choose to donate the artwork to the arcade’s décor. “It’s a win-win,” the arcade explains. “Artists can promote their work, and visitors get to experience a vibrant space filled with local talent.”
How to Get Involved
Artists interested in contributing can submit photos of their art through the arcade’s Facebook Messenger or email at badaxeretrocade(at)gmail(dot)com. After submission, the RetroCade team will coordinate the drop-off of the artwork and post images of the pieces on their social media channels to promote the artists’ work and online presence.
The submission deadline is December 1, 2024, leaving plenty of time for Thumb artists to bring their creative visions to life.
More Than Just an Arcade—A Community Hub
Located at 845 N Van Dyke, Suite B, next door to Longshot Lanes, Bad Axe RetroCade offers more than just walls to decorate. It is the Thumb area’s first and only quarter-play retro arcade. With over 26 classic arcade games, eight pinball machines, and two skeeball lanes, it’s a haven for nostalgic gamers and new visitors alike. For just $3 per person, guests can enjoy an entire day of gaming in the Retro Console Room, which boasts systems like Atari, Sega, Nintendo, Super Nintendo, and PlayStation 1 & 2.
Open from Thursday to Sunday, with extended hours during busy times, the RetroCade is more than just a game room—it’s quickly becoming a community space where old-school fun meets local creativity.
An Invitation to Create and Play
Bad Axe RetroCade’s “Art the Arcade” project isn’t just about filling walls—it’s about celebrating nostalgia, fostering creativity, and supporting local artists. Whether artists are seasoned pros or hobbyists with a love for all things retro, the arcade’s doors are open for submissions.
And while you’re dropping off your artwork, why not take a break to play a few rounds of Pac-Man or try your hand at skeeball? After all, “Where the Past Comes to Play” isn’t just a tagline—it’s an invitation to experience the best of gaming and community in one place.
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