First Friday Art Walk – April 4, 2025

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.

Ironwood Candles and Crafts at Benders

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 3rd floor.  Stop by to see paintings in progress by Donna LaBeau and check out her recently completed 25” x 40” painting.

North Homes Students at MAC

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.

Keith Soring at Unwined

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.