The Next Center, a pivotal project for Holland’s SmartZone, includes a stunning creative feature to enhance its role as an inviting hub of innovation and technological advancement in the community. Local muralist and tattoo artist Chris Garcia was commissioned to create a vibrant, large-scale mural titled “Waves of Innovation” on the first-level interior wall of the Next Center.
This mural serves as a dynamic introduction to the Next Center. The mural is visible to pedestrians from the sidewalk, inviting curiosity and celebrating the area’s spirit of determination and forward-thinking ingenuity. Chris Garcia’s artwork captures the essence of the region’s unique and defining features and serves as an invitation to potential founders to step in and become part of an established business network with high visibility, accountability, and access to a concentration of business services.
Chris Garcia, known for his community-focused artwork, is excited to contribute to this landmark project.
“The ‘Waves of Innovation’ mural is a visual testament to the energy and creativity that define our community,” said Garcia. “I’m thrilled to be a part of this project and to contribute to a space that will inspire and support the next generation of innovators.”
The mural project has been made possible through generous grants from the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council and the Holland Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB). These grants underscore the community’s commitment to supporting local art and enhancing the Next Center’s role as a hub of innovation and opportunity.
“At the Holland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, we’re always looking for unique ways to promote our community’s charm and innovation”, expressed Linda Hart, Executive Director of the Holland Area CVB. “By supporting this project, we’re not only enhancing our local tourism landscape but also showcasing Holland’s commitment to innovation and creativity. We believe this striking artwork will draw more visitors to explore our area, potentially extending their stays and contributing to our thriving local economy.”
“By blending art with technology and entrepreneurship, this mural stands for the kind of multifaceted initiatives that MACC believes will have an enduring positive impact on our community,” stated Jason Latham, Executive Director of Macatawa Area Coordinating Council. “It’s an investment in our cultural landscape that we expect will inspire current and future generations of innovators and creators in our area.”
About Lakeshore Advantage
Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Ottawa and Allegan Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, and solves economic challenges and identifies opportunities. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the lakeshore region.
In 2023, Lakeshore Advantage supported 26 business growth projects consisting of $3.2 billion in private investment and $634.3 million in support funds leveraged in the two counties. Business growth projects resulted in 1,091 new and retained jobs. In addition, Lakeshore Advantage provided economic support to 285 primary employers and 73 startup companies in the two counties.
Find out more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.
