Motel Bear Lake, in partnership with Manistee Tourism, has been awarded a grant from The Begonia Charitable Foundation to fund the creation of two new murals on the Bear Lake Community Mural Wall, located on the backside of Motel Bear Lake. 

The Bear Lake Community Mural Wall has become a vibrant attraction, showcasing the work of talented Michigan-based artists. The new murals will join existing pieces by Art Prize winner, Son Visual (September 2024), Mariah Sco of Rose Color Creative (July 2024), and Heather Spooner of Ampersand Leering Lab (July 2023). 

The first mural will be created by Em Randall, an artist originally from Bear Lake who previously worked at the motel. Randall's mural, starting on May 12, 2025, will be "powerfully femme, an ode to the fierce friendships I had in my younger days, specifically at the motel – I worked there for a second job with my best friend." 

The second muralist, Jamie John, will begin his work on May 28, 2025, where he will spotlight the indigenous history of the area - specifically the Annishinabbe people. In addition to his mural work, Jamie John will host a Collage and Zine-making Workshop on Monday, June 2nd. "Analog zine making and emphasizing collage fits within the whole retro vibe the motel has going on," says John. 

"We are incredibly grateful to The Begonia Charitable Foundation for their support," said Marta Turnbull, owner of Motel Bear Lake. "These murals will document the rich history of our area through Randall’s intimate story of growing up in Bear Lake, and John’s depiction of the Anishinaabe people's enduring connection to this land, which they have stewarded for countless generations." 

"Manistee Tourism is thrilled to partner with Motel Bear Lake and The Begonia Charitable Foundation on this exciting project," says Sammie Lukaskiewicz, Executive Director at Manistee County Tourism. 

"The Bear Lake Community Mural Wall is quickly becoming a significant cultural asset for our region, and these new additions will undoubtedly enhance its appeal. Public art plays a vital role in attracting visitors, enriching the Bear Lake community, and celebrating the unique character of Manistee County.” 

The addition of these murals to the Bear Lake Community Mural Wall is expected to draw more visitors to the area, further promoting the arts and local businesses.