First Friday Art Walk – December 5, 2025

Posted on November 26, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during the Art Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. All events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: Glenna Olson at Frame Up ]

Visit the Grand Rapids Arts Facebook page to vote for your favorite window display – voting ends at 7 pm on First Friday!

1. LIFE RHYTHM STUDIOS

Hosting a Heartfelt Holidays evening from 3 – 7 pm with live music by Lou on 6- and 12-string guitar, permanent jewelry by Jaimi of PrettySimple Jewelry, and photography and paintings by Jess Storey including limited edition prints, cards, and more.

2. MOVE IT REAL ESTATE GROUP

Move It’s Holiday Open House features artists Cydney Gibeau of Celedon Garden Pottery withunique, handmade, functional pottery and Sarah Mell of MDS Designs with handcrafted clay jewelry. Plus snacks and beverages and raffle baskets with proceeds benefiting Second Harvest Northland Food Bank.

3. FRAME UP

Welcoming local artists Glenna Olson, a relief printmaker showing her original woodcut and linocut prints as well as ornaments and earrings fashioned from print fragments; Gavin Johnson of Johnson Creek Leather, who uses quality materials from start to finish, with outstanding craftsmanship and talent; and Corrin Mann, a newcomer to the local pottery scene, Corrin has decided to adorn her creations with cats. Meow.

4. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMING

Featuring Rustic Creations handmade wooden art by Randy Kucshel. Snowmen, Minnesota cutouts, rustic crosses. Perfect for gift giving.

Heidi Leppala at The Evergreen Collective

5. EVERGREEN COLLECTIVE

Local Artist, Heidi Leppala will have her hand poured candles, felt purses from her own sheep’s wool, mixed media canvas art and also Tallow Balm made by her.

6. LEDGER & LADLE

Joining the First Friday festivities with Terry and Samantha Dicklich showcasing their beautiful watercolor prints, Christmas Cards, and hair accessories made from upcycled vintage jewelry.

Matthew Miltich with Sam Mitlich and Friends at Rapids Brewing Company

7. RAPIDS BREWING COMPANY

First Friday Jazz is back! From 6 – 9 pm Sam Miltich will be joined by Doug Haining on saxophone, Nathan Norman on drums, Steve Pikal on bass, and featuring Matthew Miltich on vocals.

8. DAVIS CHIROPRACTIC

Join the Davis Chiropractic family for a festive and relaxing evening from 5 – 7 pm. Dr. Newman will be sharing the holiday spirit with charming Christmas tunes on mandolin and guitar. Join the fun, enjoy a treat, and soak in the spirit of the season with us!

9. BENDERS
Hosting Benders’ very own Beth Beddoe of “Ad-tiques.” Beth and her daughter Stephanie use upcycled materials to create beautiful jewelry and decor, and have some new additions this month!

10. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Celebrating the annual Northern Spirit Shop holiday marketplace with unique handmade gifts by local artists. M’lou Brubaker will be in the gallery with a trunk show of her sterling silver jewelry, and the annual Wreath Auction fundraiser will be live with dozens of wreaths on display. With live music by the students of Cathy Shields’ piano studio and refreshments provided by Timberlake Lodge.

11. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Featuring the Crescendo Quartet for a performance from 5:15 – 6 pm.

12. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

The Night Makers Market “Jingle and Mingle” will be taking place throughout the school with pop-up vendors on each floor. Santa will be arriving at 5pm and the outdoor tree will be lit at 6:45.

True North Salon and Spa hosting a Holiday Open House with Lena James Handmade and Permanent Jewelry, plus cookies, music, hair tinsel, BOGO 50% off, and lots of other pampering to get you into the holiday spirit!
Re-Thrift will have Madeline from North in Bloom with a winter centerpiece experience—add your personal style to a thrifted or novelty pot, keep it evergreen or add blooms, and make it completely your own!
Fire in the Village in Room 203 will be hosting a “20 Below Sale” with artwork and other handcrafted and upcycled gifts for $20 bucks or less!
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 will have Buffalo Plaid Coffee Company and Ice Cube Herbals.
Artists in Residence in the 3^rd floor artist loft include painters Doug Lien and Nelia Harper with multidisciplinary artist Marija Leilynn. They will have guest artist Michelle Schwake joining them with her vibrant watercolors of life in Northern Minnesota, plus make-and-take Christmas ornaments to decorate.
Additional vendors throughout the building include Larkspur & Vine, Fresh from Alicia’s Kitchen, Fluffy David, and Ironwood Candles and Crafts.

First Friday Art Walk – November 7, 2025

Posted on October 30, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

1. BALSAM CREEK DECOR

Stop by the Central Square Mall where Deb Buxengard will be displaying her exhibit “Backyard Bird Mosaics” in her studio. Deb will be sharing information about the project and her mosaic journey.

Joel Adamson at Benders with Heidi Barton

2. BENDERS
Hosting the father-daughter creative duo of Heidi Barton and Joel Adamson. Heidi of Loon Lake Watercolors has always enjoyed crafting, but in the last five years has focused on painting with watercolors as a creative outlet and is inspired by the colors of nature. Joel’s retirement business name is Solid Rock Lapidary where he enjoys cutting and polishing stones and rocks, making jewelry and other items from them.

3. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Celebrating the opening of “For the Love of Trees,” a painting exhibit by Sue Rauschenfels. The reception includes food and wine from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6 pm.

4. GIINAWIND CREATIVE SPACE

Presenting the opening of “Generations” an exhibit showcaseing creativity across generations with a display featuring regional Indigenous artists Teresa Laduke, Kelly Martinson, Anthony Rivera, and Shaun Chosa.

5. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Hosting Leah Fox with Sota Art Company. Leah brings bright colors and whimsical characters to her mixed media creations.

6.OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

True North Salon and Spa and ReThrift are hosting Jasmine Harwood with J. Grey Jewelry with curated vintage jewelry and Megan MacDonell with Meg’s Mixes with her delicious monster cookie, brownie, sugar cookie mixes and more! Re-thrift will have new curated thrift items and holiday gift sets.
Fire in the Village in Room 203 will hold a Mini Gala. A silent auction will open at 5pm. The famous block printing pop up will pop up from 6-7pm. At 7pm a warrior woman fashion presentation will precede a concert by Annie Humphrey and Lakota John. Suggested concert donation: $20 but no one will be turned away!
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is featuring artist Lynnette Mackey, the owner of WYILDCHILD House Of Healing, a studio in the northwoods which focuses on health, healing and well being through yoga, art, music, chocolate, tea and massage. She will have some of her artwork on display and will be selling her chocolates, cookbooks, and cds.
Artists in Residence in the 3^rd floor artist loft include painters Doug Lien and Nelia Harper with multidisciplinary artist Marija Leilynn. They will have guest artist Ken Johnson joining them and will have artist demos and a make-and-take art project for visitors.

Lynnette Mackey at Free Range Food Co-op

7. EVERGREEN COLLECTIVE

Let’s talk Kawandi with Marie Duffy! A handstitched quilting style originating from the Siddi’s in West India brought by immigrants from Africa. Marie has Kawandi samples to show and other handmade items like Christmas stockings and napkins. Plus hot cider and treats!

8. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMING

Featuring Two Feathers Ranch — two sisters who raise their own stock of Nigerian Dwarf goats producing quality, luxurious goat milk soaps, balms and lotions in a sustainable manner. Great for holiday gift giving.

MIchaela James at Rapids Brewing Company

9. FRAME UP

Welcoming artists Shannon Dahlberg and Andy Wagner. Shannon mainly works with acrylic on canvas capturing the essence of nature in all its forms. She strives to convey peaceful and calming elements. Andy creates new life and purpose out of discarded firewood. He likes to say he rescues firewood one piece at a time transforming them into functional furniture.

10. NORTH IN BLOOM

Join North In Bloom as they host a Sew Festive Pop-up where Kayla will have her handmade and custom curated DIY embroidery kits. Visitors are also invited to participate in a community art project to be unveiled in late January.

11. RAPIDS BREWING COMPANY

Live music with singer-songwriter Michaela James from 6 – 9 pm.

First Friday Art Walk – October 3, 2025

Posted on September 24, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during theArt Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. All events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image by Yvonne Byrd – Itasca Plein Air Painters]

1. REIF GALLERY

Join the Itasca Plein Air Painters for a reception celebrating their group exhibition “En Plein Air” with 36 works by 16 different artists. Light refreshments provided by the Reif Center.

Balsam Creek Decor in Central Square Mall

2. BALSAM CREEK DECOR

Stop by the Central Square Mall center court to see the collection “Backyard Bird Mosaics” by Deb Buxengard on display. Then visit Deb in her mosaic studio just down the hall to see other works in progress.

This project is supported by an Individual Artist Project Grant, made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

3. BENDERS
Welcoming Gitona Berg. “Cookies on the Range” is Gitona’s creative outlet where she creates custom cookies for her customers! Any design or art you can imagine, on a cookie. Plus, they taste great!

4. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Alonso Sierralta and Lisa Loudon at MacRostie Art Center

Celebrating the opening of “Unearthed” a two-person exhibition of sculpture by Alonso Sierralta and ink on paper by Lisa Loudon. The reception includes food and wine from 4 – 7 pm.

5. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

True North Salon and Spa in Room 102 will be open and have handmade items from Re-Thrift! – a collection of upcycled items made from thrifted and vintage fabrics.
Fire in the Village in Room 203 will have free printmaking activities and a ‘video lounge’ where people can see short films about local climate land leaders. At 6PM they’ll host a “Harvest Raffle” – drawing winners of gift baskets with meat from Chengwatana Community Farm, wild rice from Leech Lake, and other harvest goodies.
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is welcoming Lily Winter with her handmade jewelry using repurposed sterling silver trays, colorful painted aluminum and enamel work
Artists in Residence in the 3^rd floor artist loft include painters Doug Lien and Nelia Harper with multidisciplinary artist Marija Leilynn. Stop by to visit with them about their latest works.

6. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMING

Showcasing the creative photography of Carol Bowman. Working for the Postal Service most of her life Carol noticed nature everyday. Now that she’s retired her camera goes with her everywhere capturing nature and wildlife for everyone to enjoy. Her photos are available in a variety of products such as calendars, wall art, postcards, and a children’s book.

7. THE EVERGREEN

Hosting Trisha from Larkspur & Vine. She will be on site making custom magnets from pictures provided by customers.

First Friday Art Walk – September 5, 2025

Posted on August 28, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during theArt Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. All events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: “A Bee’s Eye View” by Ann Gorman. ]

1. REIF GALLERY

Celebrating the exhibition “In Praise of Pollinators”with closing reception from 4 – 5 pm. Stop by to meet the artists and catch this exhibit before it’s gone! It features the photography of Ann Gorman as well as works by over 30 different regional artists.

2. DAVIS CHIROPRACTIC

Welcoming Davis Chiropractic clinic to the First Friday Art Walk from 5:30–7:00 pm! Enjoy live mandolin and guitar music from Dr. Todd Newman, relax with light refreshments, and check out their cold laser therapy. Say hello and celebrate art, music, and community!

3. BENDERS SHOES

Hosting the Loon Country Quilters. This group was formed in 1983 by several area women interested in quilting and their legacy lives on in our current group of enthusiastic quilters.

4. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Presenting the opening of “Expressing Grief,” a group exhibition with artists Molly Mae, Eric Twait, Ann and Meg Gorman, and Susan Sveda-Pachaud. The reception will include food, wine, and other beverages from 4 – 7 pm and artist talks at 6 pm.

5. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Welcoming Kayla LaTarte with Sew Festive. Check out her cute and crafty laser cut embroidery kits.

6. NORTHERN CRUISERS & ITASCA VINTAGE CAR CLUBS

The Car Clubs are hosting their final show-n-shine of the season in the Kremers parking lot (1^st Ave NW and Hwy 2). This event is open to all collector cars of any model year. Bobcats Lunchbox will be on site selling burgers, fries, and more.

7. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY AND CUSTOM FRAMNG

Welcoming jewelry maker Lynne Marie Designs. Lynne’s handmade jewelry is inspired by wood, stone, metals and earth. Naturally sourced, timeless and beautiful!

Celebrating 130 Years of Old Central School

8. RAPIDS BREWING

First Friday live music from 6 – 9pm featuring Sam and Matthew Miltich with special guests Dave Graf on trombone, Doug Haining on saxophone, and Trevor Haining on drums.

9. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Old Central School is celebrating its 130^th Birthday with a building full of art, music, food, and fun events. Join in the 5:30 pm sing-along around the piano complete with hats and a cake cutting to follow!

Central School Grounds Bring your blanket or chair and kick back for a free concert on the lawn by singer and guitarist Greg Kaczor from 4 – 6 pm.
Itasca Pride will have rainbow cupcakes, board games, and a collaborative community art project. They will also be offering free clothing, food, hygiene products, and other mutual aid supplies.
True North Salon and Spa is celebrating their move to Room 102 by offering discounts, hair tinsel, and special gifts to the first 20 people starting at 4 pm. Lena James Design Handmade & Permanent Jewelry will be on site.
Re-Thrift will be popping up in Room 103 and Smoke on the Water will be handing out samples.
Celadon Garden Pottery in Room 112 is celebrating their grand opening. Guest artists include sourdough goods from Ashley Letendre of Baked by Ashley, and laser art by Brittney Kahlil of Evermore Grove.
Charmed Custom Candles in Room 201 will have a special candle sale and will host Victoria Kragthorpe from 5:30-7pm to show her beautiful chalkboard art.
Fire in the Village in Room 203 will have free block printing demos and information about the kick-off a new program called “Creative Crow Club” – a space for young artists to find their voices and to build a caring creative community.
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 will feature Mary Augustyn of Augustyn Artworks Pottery. Specializing in functional and horse hair pottery and unique clay necklaces. She has also been brewing kombucha for 20 years and will have some available.
Artists in Residence on the 3^rd Floor – Visit the artists’ loft to see works by Doug Lien, Marija Leilynn, and Nelia Harper.

First Friday Art Walk – August 1, 2025

Posted on July 23, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during theArt Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. All events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: Fire in the Village]

1. BENDERS
Hosting Simon and Lynn Wilson, local Grand Rapids authors and longtime educators with their new children’s book “Learning to Love Your Monster.”

2. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Celebrating the opening of the 33^rd Annual Juried Show with juror Karen Goulet. Refreshments from 4 – 7 pm and awards presented at 6pm.

3. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Welcoming Meredith Newman with the creations of At the Lake MN.

4. BOREALIS CREAMERY

Hand-scooping locally made ice cream with inspired flavors. Find the ice cream truck on 1^st Ave NW in front of MacRostie Art Center.

First Friday Concert in Old Central School

5. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Fire in the Village in Room 203 will be showcasing a mural project and other art made by teens in the Coherent Crow Camp.
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is welcoming featured artist John Bauer of A Lost Art. His whimsical sculptures from forgotten objects blend imagination with the textures of the past.
Live Music: The First Friday Concert Series presents the cello duo of Magdalena Sas and Dr. Zachary Preucil (Madison, WI) with compositions for two cellos by Mozart, Gliere, Barriere and more!
Artists in Residence: the 3^rd floor studio is home to resident artists Doug Lien, Marija Leilyn, and Nelia Harper.

6. GRAND RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Presenting an art exhibit from Itasca Life Options, live music by Jenika Schermerhorn, and beverages and treats from The Chocolate Dog. Bouquets of spring flowers from North in Bloom will also be available for purchase.

7. WINGS N’ WILLOWS ART GALLERY AND CUSTOM FRAMING

Featuring exquisite jewelry handcrafted by Kim of Star of the North Jewelry. Kim is a wire weaver artist using unique cabochons, sterling silver and copper to create elaborate pendant designs.

8. RAPIDS BREWING

Featuring live jazz with Sam Miltich and friends from 6 – 9 pm. Sam and Matthew Miltich will be joined by jazz pianist Chris Lomheim.

First THURSDAY Art Walk – July 3, 2025

Posted on June 25, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Please note: the art walk will take place on Thursday this month due to the July 4 holiday falling on a Friday. Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during theArt Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. All events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: Rob Downing ]

1. BENDERS
Hosting Sweetness Farm, a bee-loving, honey-making haven run by David Setness in Deer River. It’s a thriving source of local honey, lip balms, and finishing salts—crafted with heart, hustle, and plenty of buzz.

Nancy Kingbird at Giinawind Creative Space

2. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Presenting the opening of “Shapes and Spaces,” an exhibit of photography by David Fallon. Refreshments from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6pm.

3. GIINAWIND CREATIVE SPACE

Welcoming Nancy Kingbird for a solo exhibit of her beadwork creations.

4. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Celebrating their 4-year business anniversary – including a prize drawing.

Northern Cruisers and Itasca Vintage Car Club in the old Kremer’s lot

5. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Charmed Custom Candles in Room 201 is hosting Meredith Rothstein Newman with At the Lake MN.
Fire in the Village in Room 203 is a community art space open to all. Stop by to learn more about their mural project and other work.
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is welcoming featured artists Rob Downing (oil painting) and Jason Ritter (kinetic sculptures).
Live Music: Sam Miltich with sons Evo and Leo will perform a free concert of Irish, Balkan, and other European folk tunes from 4 – 5 pm in Room 212.
Artists in Residence: the 3^rd floor studio is welcoming a new group of artists: Doug Lien, Marija Leilyn, and Nelia Harper.

6. NORTHERN CRUISERS & ITASCA VINTAGE CAR CLUBS

Hosting a Show-n-Shine at the Old Kremer’s Parking Lot. Open to all Collector Cars of any model year, with Bobcat’s Lunchbox food truck on site.

7. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY & CUSTOM FRAMING

Welcoming Two Feathers Ranch featuring LIVE GOATS!!! They raise their own stock of Nigerian Dwarf goats, producing quality goat milk soaps, balms and lotions in a sustainable manner. You won’t want to miss this fun evening!!

8. EVERGREEN COLLECTIVE

Featuring in-house artist Kathy LaDoux of Lake Lover Vintage. One-of-a-kind, upcycled wind chimes and decorative bird houses is the theme for the night!

9. RAPIDS BREWING

Live jazz with Sam Miltich and friends from 6 – 9 pm. Sam and Matthew Miltich will be joined by Doug Haining on saxophone and Trevor Haining on drums.

10. HILL TOP ANTIQUES

Featuring a large selection of high-quality vintage and estate jewelry along with original artwork throughout the store. Find treasures just up the hill!

First Friday Art Walk – June 6, 2025

Posted on May 29, 2025 by MaryM

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during the First Friday Art Walk! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. First Friday events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: Susan Clandon ]

Diamond Knispel with Amber Burns and Kat Corrigan at the Reif Gallery

1. REIF GALLERY

Celebrating the exhibition Wild, Wild Life with an artist reception from 4 – 5:30 pm. The exhibit features the vivid and captivating wildlife portraits of Amber Burns, Kat Corrigan, and Diamond.

2. BENDERS SHOES

Hosting local artist Kelly Villebro, whose art can be described as rusty and weathered barn finds, repurposed and upcycled into flowers with a pop of color.

3. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Presenting the opening of “As History Repeats Itself,” an exhibit of human-rights themed pottery by Nathan Bray. The reception will include food, wine, and other beverages from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6 pm.

4. GIINAWIND CREATIVE SPACE

Hosting the Team Carrie fundraiser, organized by the family and friends of Carrie Estey who died of leukemia. The fundraiser includes an exhibit of original artwork and a raffle to support Native American cancer patients and their families.

5. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Welcoming Cydney Gibeau with the beautiful and functional creations of Celadon Garden Pottery.

6. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Fire in the Village is holding their Free Friday Art Jam in Room 203 and celebrating First Friday with karaoke!
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is featuring a community weaving project and hands-on fiber fun for all ages with Shara Dabrowski, who creates unique pieces using handspun wool from regional farms and reclaimed materials.
Artists in Residence Visit the 3^rd floor to bid farewell to Donna LaBeau, Annie Humphrey, and Jenny Winkelman at the end of their year-long residency.

GR Area Male Chorus on the Central School Lawn

7. CENTRAL SCHOOL GROUNDS

Celebrate First Friday with a free concert on the lawn by the Grand Rapids Area Male Chorus from 4 – 5 pm, and visit the Borealis Creamery food truck for hand-crafted small batch ice cream.

8. NORTHERN CRUISERS & ITASCA VINTAGE CAR CLUBS

The Car Clubs are hosting a show-n-shine event in the Kremers parking lot (1^st Ave NW and Hwy 2) and welcoming the Austin Healey and MG Clubs of Minnesota as well. This event is open to all collector cars of any model year. Bobcats Lunchbox will be on site selling burgers, fries, and more.

9. GRAND RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Featuring a Retrospective Exhibit by area artist Susan Clandon which will include a wide range of landscapes and figures, mostly acrylic paintings, large and small, at very accessible prices, as well as cards. Susan’s paintings will be on show and on sale throughout the month of June. Guests can also enjoy live music by Dan Rigoni of Rapids Radio from 4:30-6:30 p.m., along with beverages and appetizers from Triple C Company. Bouquets of spring flowers from North in Bloom will also be available for purchase.

10. WINGS ‘N WILLOWS ART GALLERY AND CUSTOM FRAMNG

Featuring Two Feathers Ranch. They are two sisters raise their own stock of Nigerian Dwarf goats producing quality goat milk soaps, balms and lotions in a sustainable manner.

11. FRAME UP

Frame Up is hosting a special First Friday Art Walk, featuring RE-Thrift’s Ashley Brubaker. Join us for a night of community, creativity, and connection as Ashley shares her handmade sewn goods and a curated selection of thrifted treasures. It’s a celebration of local talent and the art of repurposing!

12. RAPIDS BREWING

First Friday live music from 6 – 9pm featuring Leah Lemm, Tony Balluff, and Nathan Norman with Sam and Matthew Miltich.

13. HILL TOP ANTIQUES

Artist Susan Kattas, formerly of Grand Rapids, will be featured with her works in collage and poured acrylic. Susan, retired from teaching studio art and art history at Inver Hills Community College, will be present to greet visitors and talk about her artwork using recycled materials like address labels and bottle corks.

First Friday Art Walk – May 2, 2025

Posted on April 24, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

1. REIF CENTER

Celebrating art in the schools with a closing reception for the 8^th Grade Student Art Show in the Reif Gallery. Stop by from 4 – 5 pm to see the students’ work and support youth artists.

2. BENDERS
Hosting Benders’ very own Beth Beddoe of “Ad-tiques.” Beth and her daughter Stephanie use upcycled materials to create beautiful jewelry and decor.

3. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Presenting the opening of the annual “Little Big Show” miniatures exhibition featuring Ashley Kolka-Lee and dozens of other artists. Refreshments from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6pm.

4. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Welcoming Cydney Gibeau with the beautiful and functional creations of Celadon Garden Pottery.

5. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Fire in the Village is holding their Free Friday Art Jam in Room 203. Bring something you’re working on, use art materials on hand to try something new, or just stop by to visit.
Free Range Food Co-op in Room 209 is featuring chalk art by Lea Friesen, who focuses on collaborations that support spiritual, communal and physical ways of healing.
Artists in Residence Donna LaBeau, Annie Humphrey, and Jenny Winkelman welcome the public to their studio space on the 3^rd floor.
Borealis Creamery will be on site in the parking lot scooping their latest flavors from the ice cream truck.

6. NORTHERN CRUISERS & ITASCA VINTAGE CAR CLUBS

Hosting the kick-off First Friday Show-n-Shine at the Old Kremer’s Parking Lot. This event is open to all Collector Cars of any model year, and Bobcat’s Lunchbox food truck will be on site.

Margo Hansen and Rena Yeager at Inspirations

7. RAPIDS BREWING

Live jazz with Sam Miltich and friends from 6 – 9 pm. This month features vocalist Charmin Michelle, Dave Graf on trombone, and Nathan Norman on drums along with Sam and Matthew Miltich.

8. INSPIRATIONS CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE

Featuring local author Margo Hansen with her fourteenth and newest book “Superior Heir.” Margo will be joined by Rena Yeager with her book “It’s a God Thing” from 3 – 6pm.

First Friday Art Walk – April 4, 2025

Posted on March 26, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

Come downtown to celebrate the arts and artists during the first monthly art walk of the new year! Events are held 4 – 7 pm with live music continuing later. First Friday events are free unless noted, and all are welcome! [Above image: Tamarick Designs]

1. BENDERS

Benders is hosting Shawnae Belanger of Ironwood Candles and Crafts with her handmade candles, wax melts, sprays, lip balm, bath whip, bath soak, and lotion.

2. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Celebrating the opening of “Expressions” an exhibition featuring mixed media works by youth from the residential programs of North Homes Children and Family Services. With refreshments provided by First Call for Help/211 from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6 pm.

3. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Artists Donna LaBeau, Annie Humphrey, and Jenny Winkelman have studios on the 3^rd floor. Stop by to see paintings in progress by Donna LaBeau and check out her recently completed 25” x 40” painting.

4. GRAND RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Featuring Tammy Horton Tamarick Designs with her handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry made with natural stones set in sterling, copper, or brass. Live music by Dan Rigoni of Rapids Radio from 4:30-6:30 pm along with beverages and appetizers.

5. UNWINED UP NORTH

Presenting live music from 5 – 7 pm with Keith Soring.

6. EVERGREEN COLLECTIVE

Hosting Alan Anderberg, a Vietnam vet from the Grand Rapids area. Andy is hobby syrup-maker of 11 years and will talk about the process of making his wood-fired maple syrup.

7. RAPIDS BREWING

Live jazz with the Clearwater Hot Club from 6 – 9 pm. Sam and Matthew Miltich will be joined by Martha Larson on cello and Mark Kreitzer on guitar and mandolin.

Robert Blehert and sports artwork at Hill Top Antiques

8. HILL TOP ANTIQUES

Featuring the sports artwork of Terry Jacobsen, Karl Jaeger, and Robert Blehert, including originals and limited edition prints. Scott McBride, one of the country’s top authorities on sports memorabilia, will also be on site to discuss the many pieces featured in the store.

First Friday Art Walk – March 7, 2025

Posted on February 25, 2025 by GrandRapidsArts

1. REIF PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Portraits exhibition at the Reif Gallery – artwork by Susan Klann

Celebrating the art of portraiture with an exhibition featuring Susan Klann and over 30 regional artists. Visit with the artists and enjoy light refreshments during the closing reception from 4 – 5:30 pm.

2. BENDERS

Benders is hosting Aidan Lofstrom, a high school student in Grand Rapids. Aiden crafts unique pens and pencils using exotic wood and creates hand carved and hand painted spearing decoys.

3. MACROSTIE ART CENTER

Hosting the opening of “Species of Special Concern” an exhibit of drawings and paintings by Tanya Piatz. Join us for food, wine, and other refreshments from 4 – 7 pm and an artist talk at 6 pm.

Melissa Fowler at Giinawind Creative Space

4. GIINAWIND CREATIVE SPACE

Welcoming Melissa Fowler with an exhibition of birchbark, textiles, and beadwork. Her work is inspired by her love for endangered art forms, ancestral regalia, woodland florals, and powwow dancing.

5. STAINED GLASS WITH CLASS

Featuring the Root of Craft with handmade jewelry by Anastasia Root.

6. OLD CENTRAL SCHOOL

Third Floor: Visit the Artists in Residence to see watercolor demonstrations by Donna LaBeau and check out work by Jenny Winkelman and Annie Humphrey.
Room 203: Join Fire in the Village for their first “Free Friday Art Jam.” Stop by to visit and bring something you’re working on or use art materials on hand to try something new.

Free Friday Art Jam with Fire in the Village

7. UNWINED UP NORTH

Presenting live music from 5 – 7 pm with Todd Newman on mandolin and acoustic guitar.

8. RAPIDS BREWING

Listen to live jazz with the Clearwater Hot Club – Sam and Matthew Miltich will be joined by Liz Ashworth and Mark Kreitzer on mandolin and guitar. The group will perform from 6 – 9 pm.

9. HILL TOP ANTIQUES

Featuring the artwork of the late James “JW” Wieser from Hastings, MN. A most interesting artist – he was a professional wrestler who performed as “Diamond Jim Reno” prior to enrolling in the police academy in 1971 where he began his law enforcement career of 26 years. His artwork was a form of stress relief and focused on subjects from his travels and the American West.

Grand Rapids Arts

The heartbeat of the art community.

Category Archives: First Friday

First Friday Art Walk – December 5, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – November 7, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – October 3, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – September 5, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – August 1, 2025

First THURSDAY Art Walk – July 3, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – June 6, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – May 2, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – April 4, 2025

First Friday Art Walk – March 7, 2025