Throughout our conversations for this issue, one theme kept popping up: West Michigan is home to a world-class arts and music scene.

From the only professional ballet company in Michigan (Grand Rapids Ballet), to professional Equity theaters such as Saugatuck Center for the Arts and Barn Theatre, to venues like the newly opened Big Room pulling together top behind-the-scenes talent—the quality and passion are immense.

To be clear, this isn’t just locals patting ourselves on the back. Arts professionals who come here from across the country and around the world say that West Michigan is unique in the caliber of its offerings.

We dig into that discussion in this issue with our first Arts Roundtable in many years, bringing together the leaders of local organizations to talk about the challenges and success they’re seeing in recent years. Then, we highlight just a few local artists who are doing great things, from painters to photographers, printmakers and metalworkers (sorry to ruin the alliteration).

This issue also looks at the local music scene, with our annual roundup of Bands to Watch, and deeper profiles on artists like folk trio The Rebel Eves, or Kanin Wren, who’s quickly established herself across the country as the premier Taylor Swift cover artist. 

Of course, you’ll also find the annual Arts 2025-26 Season Preview, which aims to act as a guide to just about every arts event and exhibition imaginable from now until the end of the season. I reference it all year-long, and you can too!

Let’s be honest: Right now, times are tough, and it’s easy to feel lonely or bereft. Getting out and enjoying art, whether it be on your own at a gallery or with a crowd at a performance, can be a solution to both. It’s a balm for the soul and an opportunity to make connections with your fellow humanity. Plus, it’s just fun!

'Til next time,

Josh Veal, Managing Editor