COLDWATER, MI — The city is seeking proposals by April 1 to lease three art sculptures or installations for one year as part of its downtown art program, along with ideas for new murals.
“After last year’s success, we aim to feature art at three locations this year,” said Economic Development Coordinator Erin Veysey.
The large wooden turtle sculpture near the library and the “Balanced Beams” iron sculpture across from Tibbits are scheduled for removal in June, as their one-year leases are set to expire.
A third art installation will be featured outside the Brown Municipal Building this year, according to Veysey.
“We’ll select sculptures that best fit each location and enhance the aesthetic,” Veysey said.
The turtle sculpture was placed near the library for children to enjoy.
The Main Street board chose the modern sculpture across from Tibbits Opera House because it offers a unique view from every angle.
“We want the art to spark curiosity and inspire thought,” Veysey said.
The art initiative began last year to make downtown Coldwater more colorful, walkable, and culturally vibrant.
In 2025, the program brought a muralist to create the “Best One Ever” mural on the S. Monroe Street alley wall. The group now seeks proposals for additional murals.
The 2026 Artist Request for Proposals is open, encouraging artists from all backgrounds and disciplines to apply.
For full RFP details, eligibility, and the project timeline, visit downtowncoldwater.com or contact Main Street Director Kristen Johnson at kjohnson@coldwater.org.
Branch Area Career Center Tree
With community donations, Branch Area Career Center students built a large metal tree, now displayed in the northwest quadrant of Four Corners Park.
The city leased the tree for a year and may relocate it to the Morse Street BACC campus this summer.Veysey said the future of the tree or another student sculpture is still under consideration.
Alley Art Walk
Attorney Ben Jewell offered his office wall in the alley between S. Monroe Street and the Tibbits parking lot to display seven art projects by Coldwater students.
These artworks facing the public restrooms are visible from the street and parking lots.
Veysey said the number will increase to eight this spring.
Students from eighth grade and up, in partnership with the high school National Art Honor Society, are currently working on the next pieces.
Business owners, such as the Children’s Museum of Branch County, which features a wall mural, are encouraged to add outdoor art to their buildings.
“We aim to enhance the downtown experience and inspire local pride by creating a family-friendly, arts-focused environment,” Veysey said.
The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority and Main Street rely on a modest budget and public donations to support the program.
Contact Don Reid, dReid@USATodayCo.Com
This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Downtown art program seeks new sculptures, murals to add vibrancy
Reporting by Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter / Coldwater Daily Reporter
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