Building Connection Through Art: Independent Bank’s Mission-Driven Mural Experience with Rebel Nell
When a team comes together to create something with their hands, something powerful happens. Walls become canvases of collaboration, and every brushstroke becomes a story, one that celebrates individuality, connection, and purpose.
That’s exactly what unfolded in Grand Rapids during ArtPrize 2025, when Independent Bank partnered with Rebel Nell to create a community mural that reflected the heart of their organization.
A Creative Workshop Rooted in Purpose
As part of Rebel Nell’s creative workshops for corporate teams, this project invited both Independent Bank employees and members of the Grand Rapids community to contribute to a shared piece of art. Through guided facilitation, each participant explored how their unique perspectives and experiences contribute to the greater whole, just like in any successful team.
The result was more than a mural; it was a mission-driven team-building activity that strengthened connection, trust, and appreciation among colleagues while deepening ties with the community they serve.
“This mural was born from the hands and hearts of our Grand Rapids community and Independent Bank employees during ArtPrize 2025. Each brushstroke reflects our history—proudly rooted in Michigan since 1864—and our commitment to building strong, lasting connections in the communities we serve.
In partnership with Rebel Nell, a social enterprise, this mural was built through collective creativity, collaboration, trust, and a shared purpose.
Independent Bank—Michigan’s most people-focused bank since 1864.”
Experiences That Empower and Inspire
Rebel Nell’s approach to Grand Rapids team-building activities is one of a kind, each experience blends art, storytelling, and shared purpose to bring people closer together. Every workshop is designed to help participants see how their individual contributions, when combined, create something extraordinary and lasting.
Our unique small-group experiences in Grand Rapids are rooted in Rebel Nell’s mission to empower women and create opportunities through art and employment. When companies choose to host a values-driven, creative workshop with us, they’re not just creating a beautiful piece of art, they’re helping sustain a social enterprise that transforms reclaimed materials and human potential into something meaningful.
These workshops also serve as a moment of pause for teams, a space to reflect, connect, and celebrate their shared goals while giving back to their community. Whether painting together on a mural or designing a one-of-a-kind keepsake, teams walk away inspired, re-energized, and reminded of what true collaboration looks like.
Why Teams Choose Rebel Nell
Whether you’re a local business, nonprofit, or national organization visiting Michigan, Rebel Nell offers creative workshops for corporate teams and mission-driven team-building activities in Grand Rapids that connect art, purpose, and community. From mural-making to jewelry design workshops, every experience helps your team rediscover what connection truly means, to one another, and to the city we proudly serve.
To learn more about booking a creative team-building workshop or corporate mural experience with Rebel Nell, contact us here.
