Consumers Credit Union Invests in Community Pride Through New South Haven Mural
As Michigan credit unions continue to look for meaningful ways to invest beyond bricks and mortar, Consumers Credit Union is demonstrating how public art can serve as a catalyst for community connection, local pride and economic activity.
This spring, Consumers Credit Union commissioned renowned Michigan muralist Kevin Wolfrom to create a large-scale public mural at its downtown South Haven office, adding a dynamic new visual landmark to one of Lake Michigan’s most beloved waterfront communities. Spanning approximately 60 feet wide, the mural celebrates South Haven’s natural beauty, maritime heritage and year-round sense of place.
Wolfrom is scheduled to begin painting on Monday, May 4, 2026, with completion expected within about a week, weather permitting. The artwork will feature a postcard-style interpretation of “South Haven,” paired with a ground-level rendering of the city’s iconic lighthouse, an intentional design choice aimed at encouraging interactive selfies and group photos for residents and visitors alike.
The lighthouse depicted in the mural holds deep local significance. Located at the mouth of the Black River and first lit in 1872, the South Haven lighthouse remains one of Michigan’s most photographed maritime landmarks and a symbol of the city’s role as a Lake Michigan destination.
Consumers Credit Union selected Wolfrom based on his extensive experience creating community-centered murals throughout Michigan, particularly in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. A graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, Wolfrom is known for his vibrant color palettes, bold linework and an approach that blends local storytelling with contemporary design.
For Consumers, the project reflects a broader mission of investing directly in the communities where members live and work.
“This mural represents our commitment to investing in the places where our members live, work and gather,” said Scott Sylvester, Consumers’ president and CEO. “Public art has a unique ability to spark pride and encourage connection. Partnering with a Michigan-based artist to celebrate South Haven felt like a natural fit.”
Beyond its visual impact, the mural is also expected to support downtown activity and foot traffic. Consumers’ South Haven offices manager Ken Overholser emphasized the mural’s role in strengthening the local business environment.
“As a local credit union, this mural is just another way we’re investing in downtown—creating an attraction that draws visitors in and gives them a reason to explore our local shops, restaurants and attractions,” Overholser said. “It’s really fitting that the mural will be painted during South Haven Business Week.”
The mural timeline coincides with National Small Business Week, celebrated locally by the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce from May 3–9, further reinforcing the project’s connection to small businesses and community vitality.
Once completed, the mural is expected to become a new visual anchor in downtown South Haven, complementing the city’s walkable retail district, seasonal tourism economy and long-standing reputation as a cultural and recreational destination along Lake Michigan.
« Return to "MCUL Newsroom"
