Isabella County Parks Installs Outdoor Mural at Coldwater Lake Family Park with $3,200 Grant from Michigan Arts and Culture Council
Photo courtesy of Andrea Croft. Artist Andrea Croft poses by the completed mural at Hofbauer Pavilion, Coldwater Lake Family Park, Weidman, MI
Isabella County Parks recently commissioned and installed an outdoor mural at Coldwater Lake Family Park in Weidman, MI.
Made possible with a $3,200 grant from the State of Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC), the mural displays a timeline of the park’s history, starting with 1945 when the land was acquired by the Isabella County Road Commission, then to 1967 when park management was shifted to the newly-created Isabella County Parks and Recreation Commission, and finally highlighting various park projects and improvements through the years, all the way to present day.
Local artist and Mt. Pleasant resident, Andrea (Annie) Croft of Andrea Croft Creative – Croft3Designs, brought the concept to life with her unique style and amazing artistic talent.
The MACC Experience Support grant was awarded through the MACC compliance review process and was one of 678 applications to compete for MACC fiscal year 2026 funding. The funds, in addition to some funds from the Parks Budget, supported the commission of the mural.
The mural is located near the beach on the southwest sidewall of the Hofbauer Pavilion, one of the park’s most popular pavilions, which sees a lot of foot traffic from both campers and daytime visitors during the camping season (May through early October). The location is also accessible, allowing campers and visitors of all abilities to enjoy the new art installation.
Photo courtesy of Andrea Croft. A selfie stand installed nearby makes it easier for individual visitors and groups to take photos in front of the mural.
“Isabella County Parks’ ultimate goal, through the mural, is to encourage more visitors to recreate in the outdoors and give them a place to take selfies and show pride in their parks,” said Alexis Hansen, Isabella County Parks Director. “We invite all to visit and take photos in front of the mural, and to take advantage of the selfie stand installed nearby.”
Isabella County Parks staff and Parks Commission board members would like to thank artist Andrea Croft for her excellent work, as well as the MACC for their continued support of the arts in Isabella County.
The MACC compliance review process ensures the taxpayers, who support this project through legislative appropriations, and all other visitors or residents in Michigan will have access to the highest quality arts and cultural experiences. A complete list of grant awards around the state is available by contacting MACC at (517) 241-4011, or by visiting the MACC website at michigan.gov/arts.