Skip to main content

Creative

live here. create here.

Our region possesses a well-developed creative industry and arts sector – with Traverse City notably being named twice in the past three years to the Top 10 Most Arts-Vibrant Medium Communities in the 2020 and 2018 Arts Vibrancy Index report by the National Center for Arts Research. A vibrant creative culture is an important deciding-factor when you’re setting your eyes on a new destination to call home. And, the existing creative and entrepreneurial talent is important for growing your network and professional community. We have a growing momentum in the local business community that is bringing together technology, innovation, creativity, remote work, and access to capital.


“I am thankful I get to work downtown Traverse City and soak up the vibrant energy that continues to grow. Being able to ride my bike to work, take a walk along the bay during my lunch break, get coffee or lunch at one of my favorite spots; it’s all made so easy when you work in the heart of downtown. There are so many historic buildings intertwined with modern architecture which make for a unique work environment…knowing that my vacation to Traverse City never ends makes it all that much sweeter.” 

MACRINA CIPA, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FLIGHT PATH CREATIVE

PODCAST SERIES

The 12-part Creative Coast Podcast series highlights northern Michigan creative professionals in performing arts, advertising, visual arts, software technology, fashion, music, writing, audiovisual art, design, arts education, and culture and heritage. 

This series brings you the moving – and entertaining – stories of creative professionals who were lured here and now call our region home.

Michigan’s Creative Coast Podcast Episode: Suddenly the Boss

How a last-minute detour to Traverse City changed the course of Fernando Meza’s life. This episode features Fernando Meza, CEO of local digital marketing agency Oneupweb.

a community of creative minds.

Find support and community among the creative-minded folks in the Grand Traverse Region by getting involved with the Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network. The Network is an arts and cultural services organization dedicated to connecting, promoting and supporting the individuals, organizations and creative projects that create and further arts and culture in Northern Lower Michigan. From their Artists’ Chill-out Sessions to funding support, the Network serves as a convener, connector, and advocate for the individuals, organizations, and ecosystem driving our creative sector.

Fresh Coast Quarterly Club

A MEETUP FOR ENTREPRENEURS, CURIOUS MINDS & NEWCOMERS

Our Fresh Coast Quarterly Club meetups are an opportunity to gather in a welcoming space with other people living in the Grand Traverse Region, as well as being a great way for remote workers and newcomers to the region to get plugged into a network, meet new people, and learn about one of the most vibrant arts & culture communities in Michigan, the Midwest, and beyond. 

ASK YOUR NORTHERN NAVIGATORS.

JILLIAN MANNING

Currently working as an editor for Northern Express and freelance writer, Jillian has over a decade of experience in journalism, editing, marketing, and nonprofit leadership.

I LOVE THE VIBRANCY OF OUR ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE, HOW WE’VE GROWN INTO A HUB FOR FOOD AND WINE, AND THAT NEW TRAILS ARE ALWAYS BEING CREATED TO EXPLORE THIS GORGEOUS AREA…MY HUSBAND AND I ARE BOTH ENGLISH MAJORS, SO I ALWAYS CHEER FOR THE CREATIVES MAKING THEIR DREAMS INTO CAREERS.

Previously, she has also served as the Executive Director of the National Writers Series, a literary nonprofit focused on author events and youth reading and writing programs. Jillian also dedicates her time to part of Traverse Connect’s DEIB Committee and is a proud graduate of the 2021 Women’s Leadership Cohort.

Nick viox

A Northern Michigan local, Nick Viox brings his passion for the arts and community to his work as the Producing Director at Parallel 45 Theatre.

I HAVE FOUND MY HOME AND COMMUNITY IN TRAVERSE CITY. NOT ONLY IS IT A PLACE WHERE CREATIVITY CAN THRIVE DUE TO AN AMAZING LANDSCAPE AND HIDDEN ADVENTURES, BUT THE COMMUNITY IS SO EASY TO GET INVOLVED WITH!

Nick volunteers with a number of organizations as board member, performer, and coordinator including Mashup Rock and Roll Musical, Up North Pride, Commongrounds Cooperative, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Old Town Playhouse, and more. Serving as the Vice Chair and Programming/Events Chair for Up North Pride, Nick has invested his life creating a home for others in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community—bringing together businesses, the arts, and individuals.

EXPLORE THE GREAT CREATIVES OF THE GRAND TRAVERSE REGION.



Photography by Allen Kent Photography, Harpe Star, Wren Photography, Andy Wakeman, Meredith Johnson, Michael Poehlman.