Go behind the scenes of northern Michigan's galleries, museums and other cultural institutions in this weeks arts-centered edition of the Northern Express, sister publication of The Ticker.

At Boyne City's CREATE Community Arts Studio, longtime artist Sara Manchester is transforming the community's former train depot into an open studio to highlight the works of diverse area artists. The site will eventually feature an artist-in-residence, plus soundproofed rooms for local musicians. “Everyone needs a positive place to go and create,” Manchester says. “We’re all in such technology overload now, people need a place to unplug and have a creative outlet, so what we offer are time and space.”

Also featured in this week's issue are 10 Michigan museums offering a "window to the past," such as the Almira Historical Museum, Charlevoix Historical Society and Empire Area Museum. The venues feature a wide range of local treasures and memorabilia, giving residents a unique look back on the region's colorful history. Andrew Carnegie has also had a significant impact on shaping northern Michigan historically, contributing beautiful architectural buildings in Traverse City, East Jordan, Charlevoix, Cadillac, Petoskey, Mancelona, Boyne City and Cheboygan. Get an inside glimpse at the Carnegie libraries in feature story "Legacy of Learning."

This week's Northern Express also includes a sneak preview of upcoming production "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamboat" at Traverse City's Old Town Playhouse, a Q&A with Northern Michigan "Art Guy" Paul LaPorte, a profile of Cajun band BeauSolei (appearing December 5 at Milliken Auditorium) - and much more! Check out the Northern Express online, or pick up a free copy at one of more than 600 distribution spots across 13 counties. And, stay connected throughout the week on Facebook and Twitter.