Community & Creativity in Bloom

April marked a vibrant start to the event season at the Fourth Street Gallery and Artisan Market. Between the inspiring talent showcased at our annual Youth Art Show and the wonderful connections made during the West Branch Art Walk and Wine Tasting, it has been a season of remarkable success. These gatherings provided a meaningful opportunity to engage with the community, sharing both our creative passions and the diverse works that define our gallery. We are energized by this momentum and look forward to welcoming you to the exhibitions, events, and educational classes planned for the remainder of the year.
As we move into May, the gallery is buzzing with fresh energy and several new featured artists. We are currently finalizing preparations for our upcoming major events, including the Let Freedom Ring exhibition and our highly anticipated annual Fine Art Show. For those interested in participating, we invite you to connect with us via our website, email, or by visiting the gallery in person. We encourage you to stop in soon to experience the incredible new, never-before-seen pieces recently delivered by our artists—exclusive works that can only be found here at Fourth Street.

Featured Artist: JoAnn Morgan-Smith

Specializing in a variety of mediums—including oils, acrylics, and graphite—JoAnn has found a particular affinity for colored pencils, favoring the precision and portability they offer. Her technical mastery in this medium has led to her work being featured in national publications like CP Hidden Treasure and Color Magazine, as well as in private collections spanning from Florida to California. Beyond her own studio practice, JoAnn is a dedicated advocate for the local creative community, finding inspiration in regional art groups and passing on her knowledge through teaching. Whether she is working on commissioned portraits or doodling through a creative block, her work remains a testament to her core belief: that art is a journey of continuous growth that should be protected and pursued by anyone with a love for creating.

The Fourth Street Gallery is proud to present JoAnn Morgan-Smith as our Artist of the Month, a creator whose lifelong passion for the arts began at the age of four in the heart of rural Michigan. Inspired by a drawing of a horse her father created for her, JoAnn set out on a lifelong mission to capture the beauty of the world around her, from the intricate anatomy of wildlife to the serene landscapes of her home state. Her journey has been one of constant practice and persistence, transitioning from childhood sketches on cereal boxes and newspapers to formal studies in high school and college. Today, her "realistic impressionist" style is recognized for its emotive power, utilizing color and composition to evoke a deep sense of joy, tranquility, and happiness.

Upcoming Classes

Capture the Human Form

Step into the studio and refine your craft with Sarah Fox-Wangler! Join us for a dedicated creative session focusing on the beauty and complexity of the human figure. Whether you’re perfecting your proportions or exploring expressive linework, these sessions offer the perfect space to grow.

• When: Tuesdays, May 5th – 26th

• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Where: Fourth Street Gallery

• The Details:

• Flexible Pricing: $30 per class OR save by booking the full 4-week series for $110!

• Supplies: Soft pastels are available to use, or you can purchase a starter set on-site.

• Personal Touch: Bring your own reference photos to transform into a masterpiece.

Discover the Vibrant World of Soft Pastels!

Ever wondered how those rich, velvety colors in pastel paintings are achieved? Join instructor Jeff Joshua for a 4-week deep dive into the art of soft pastels. From their fascinating history to modern mixed-media techniques, you’ll learn how to layer, blend, and build expressive depth in your work.
Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to add new textures to your art, this supportive environment is the perfect place to play.

• When: 1st Thursday of every month (May – Sept)

• Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Price: $30 per session

• What to bring: Grab your 18”x24” sketch pad (or any large newsprint) and your favorite drawing tools. Let’s fill those pages!

Lake Cabin in Acrylics

Join Sarah Fox-Wangler in guided acrylic painting class painting a rustic, lakeside cabin.

• Time: Friday, May 15th 6pm-8pm

• Price: $35 Includes all supplies

How to Register: To reserve your spot in any of these sessions, please email wbcaaartclass@gmail.com or visit us at the Fourth Street Gallery. Early registration is encouraged as these popular classes fill up quickly!

Youth Art Program Updates

This year’s Youth Art Show highlighted the extraordinary talent of dozens of young artists, many of whom show immense promise for professional futures in the creative world. We were especially honored to award $1,000 scholarships to two dedicated individuals currently pursuing higher education in the arts. These milestones are only made possible through the continued commitment of our members and the generosity of the local community. We recognize, however, that access to formal art education is often limited by school funding constraints, the demands of homeschooling, or busy personal schedules, leaving a gap for many aspiring creators.
To address these challenges, the Fourth Street Gallery and Artisan Market is dedicated to expanding our reach. We are currently evolving our Student Art Awards and Youth Art Studio initiatives into a comprehensive youth program designed to provide consistent education, mentorship, and professional support for young artists across our region. While we are still finalizing the structural details, we look forward to sharing an official announcement soon. This new program will invite young creatives to refine their technical skills while fostering a deeper connection to their community through the power of the arts.

Then and Now

The West Branch Creative Arts Association (WBCAA) has a rich legacy of community enrichment dating back to its first meeting at the Trail’s End Restaurant in 1974. Over the past five decades, the association has transformed from a small creative club into a cornerstone of the West Branch downtown district, most notably through the acquisition and preservation of the historic blacksmith shop at 124 N. Fourth Street. Led by visionary figures like Pete Kessler, who spearheaded the city’s Victorian-themed rejuvenation, the WBCAA established long-standing traditions such as the Victorian Art Fair and various youth scholarship programs that continue to thrive today.
In 2026, the association remains dedicated to its founding mission while embracing modern growth and fresh energy. The Fourth Street Gallery & Artisan Market has evolved into a year-round destination for local talent, complemented by new initiatives like the Youth Art Studio, quarterly gala events, and the "Let Freedom Ring" exhibition. Under the current leadership of President Robert Fowler and Vice President David Warner, the WBCAA continues to bridge the gap between historic tradition and contemporary art, ensuring that West Branch remains a vibrant hub for creativity and community connection for years to come.
A sincere thank you to Carol Fink for her dedicated work in researching and writing this fascinating look at our history.
Read the full article here: https://fourthstreetgallery.com/our-story

Artisan Market: A Michigan Destination

Experience the vibrant creative spirit of West Branch at the Fourth Street Arts & Crafter’s Market. Whether you are a local resident or traveling the M-55 corridor, our market offers a premier Saturday destination to discover authentic Michigan craftsmanship. From the lively atmosphere of our outdoor stalls to the curated collections within our climate-controlled gallery, the market is designed to be a highlight of your weekend, perfectly situated just steps away from the local Farmer’s Market for a complete community experience.

• When: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Every First & Last Saturday (June through October)

• One-of-a-Kind Treasures: Shop directly from Michigan artists featuring handmade jewelry, pottery, and custom home decor—strictly local, never mass-produced.

• Live Music & Atmosphere: Enjoy performances by local musicians as you browse, adding a melodic backdrop to your morning coffee and shopping.

• A Complete Experience: Start at the West Branch Farmer's Market for your fresh produce, then "wander over" to find your next favorite piece of art.

• Learn More: Visit fourthstreetgallery.com/arts-and-craft-market for vendor details and schedules.

Let Freedom Ring

Celebrate the semi-quincentennial of our nation with a premier artistic showcase at the Fourth Street Gallery & Artisan Market. Sponsored by the West Branch Creative Arts Association, this curated exhibition honors the USA’s 250th birthday through a diverse collection of Michigan-made works. From stunning patriotic paintings to masterfully handcrafted artisan goods, the show highlights the enduring legacy of American creativity and the unique spirit of our local makers.

• The Experience: A curated selection of fine art and artisan goods specifically themed to celebrate 250 years of American history and innovation.

• Location: Ideally situated for those heading "Up North" for the holiday, a perfect cultural stop in the heart of West Branch.

• Special Friday Hours: Join us for our extended Friday evening hours, staying open until 7:00 PM for after-work browsing and community gathering.

• Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Support Local: Every purchase supports the West Branch Creative Arts Association and the independent artists of Michigan.

Investing in the Next Generation

At the Fourth Street Gallery & Artisan Market, we believe that art is a vital instrument for developing essential life skills, including problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. Our Youth Art Studio serves as a weekly creative hub for artists aged 5 to 18, providing a professional environment where they can learn from experienced mentors and connect with a community of their peers. By fostering this space, we are doing more than teaching techniques; we are cultivating the confidence and creative thinking that these young individuals will carry into every aspect of their adult lives.
To continue this mission, we are seeking community-minded partners to help us bridge the gap between maintaining our current offerings and expanding our reach. We invite you to become a program sponsor with a $250 contribution, a high-impact investment that goes directly toward the purchase of professional-grade materials, specialized studio equipment, and enhanced outreach efforts. In appreciation of your partnership, we provide high-visibility recognition across all program platforms, ensuring our patrons and the wider West Branch community are aware of your commitment to the arts. Together, we can ensure that every young artist in our region has the resources they need to thrive.

A Community Bound by Creativity

At the Fourth Street Gallery & Artisan Market, we believe that art is a vital instrument for developing essential life skills, including problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. Our Youth Art Studio serves as a weekly creative hub for artists aged 5 to 18, providing a professional environment where they can learn from experienced mentors and connect with a community of their peers. By fostering this space, we are doing more than teaching techniques; we are cultivating the confidence and creative thinking that these young individuals will carry into every aspect of their adult lives.
To continue this mission, we are seeking community-minded partners to help us bridge the gap between maintaining our current offerings and expanding our reach. We invite you to become a program sponsor with a $250 contribution, a high-impact investment that goes directly toward the purchase of professional-grade materials, specialized studio equipment, and enhanced outreach efforts. In appreciation of your partnership, we provide high-visibility recognition across all program platforms, ensuring our patrons and the wider West Branch community are aware of your commitment to the arts. Together, we can ensure that every young artist in our region has the resources they need to thrive.