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A 60-Foot Love Letter to South Haven: New Mural Transforms Downtown Credit Union Into Photo-Worthy Art Destination

South Haven, Michigan - June 7 2015: People walk to the end of the historic lighthouse.

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram during summer and seen that iconic red lighthouse on Lake Michigan, you know South Haven has a serious visual brand. Now, the city’s getting a fresh landmark to match—courtesy of Consumers Credit Union and Michigan muralist Kevin Wolfrom.

Starting Monday, May 4, 2026, Wolfrom will spend roughly a week transforming the exterior of Consumers’ downtown South Haven office into a 60-foot-wide celebration of everything that makes this waterfront community special. Think vintage postcard vibes meets that lighthouse you’ve definitely photographed at sunset, all designed with one very 2026 purpose in mind: making your selfie game stronger.

More Than Just Paint on a Wall

Wolfrom isn’t just slapping some pretty colors on a building and calling it a day. The Kendall College of Art and Design grad has built his reputation on murals that actually mean something—work that taps into a community’s DNA and gives people a reason to stop, look, and feel connected to where they are.

“South Haven has such a strong visual identity: the lake, the light, the sense of history mixed with summer energy,” Wolfrom explained. “I love creating murals that have purpose and intention—work that brings forth a sense of connection the community can tap into.”

That South Haven lighthouse he’s painting? It’s been standing guard at the mouth of the Black River since 1872, making it one of Michigan’s most photographed maritime landmarks. If lighthouses had Instagram accounts, this one would have verification and sponsored posts.

Why a Credit Union Is Investing in Public Art

You might wonder why a financial institution is commissioning large-scale public art. According to Scott Sylvester, Consumers’ president and CEO, it’s about showing up where it matters.

“This mural represents our commitment to investing in the places where our members live, work and gather,” Sylvester said. “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.”

Ken Overholser, who manages Consumers’ South Haven office, sees it as economic development with better aesthetics than your typical downtown improvement project.

“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 noted. “It’s really fitting that the mural will be painted during South Haven Business Week.”

The timing lines up perfectly with the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce’s celebration of National Small Business Week, running May 3-9.

A Track Record Worth Noticing

Consumers didn’t just pick Wolfrom’s name out of a hat. The artist has created community-centered murals throughout Michigan, particularly across Grand Rapids and West Michigan. His signature style—vibrant colors, bold linework, and themes that blend local history with contemporary design—made him the obvious choice for a project meant to honor South Haven’s past while giving visitors something fresh to experience.

Once Wolfrom wraps up (weather permitting, because Michigan), the mural is expected to join the lighthouse as one of South Haven’s must-see visual landmarks. And unlike the lighthouse, this one comes with a downtown full of shops and restaurants within walking distance—which is kind of the whole point.

So if you’re planning a Lake Michigan getaway this summer, add “strike a pose in front of a giant postcard” to your itinerary. South Haven’s about to get a whole lot more photogenic.

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