Bank brings jewelry, art, and impact downtown

ArtRetail

Sep 19

Written By Staff

Michigan-based Independent Bank is boosting the downtown Grand Rapids shopping and cultural scene by adding Rebel Nell to its small business plaza this fall. The Detroit-based women-owned retailer offers high-quality, unique, and sustainable jewelry, and operates as a social enterprise to employ women who face barriers to employment. Rebel Nell’s store within Independent Bank Plaza at 96 Monroe Center Street Northwest is entrepreneur Amy Peterson’s fourth Michigan location.

“Our mission combines art, creativity, and social impact, so I’m excited to bring Rebel Nell to communities that share these qualities,” said Amy Peterson, Founder of Rebel Nell. “Downtown Grand Rapids, especially this plaza on Monroe and Ottawa, stood out as our ideal next location. This spot puts us in the center of the arts district, where we can contribute to the area's beauty and collaborate with local creators. Independent Bank is supporting our small business as a tenant and making it easy for us to open our doors to the public as soon as possible.”

Independent Bank and Rebel Nell will celebrate ArtPrize with a custom community-driven mural experience near the Independent Bank Plaza. Starting September 19, visitors can contribute to a collaborative mural by writing messages about the importance of character with paint markers. Once finished, the canvas will reveal a hidden message, and the artwork will be displayed inside Independent Bank’s retail branch at 98 Ottawa Avenue. Rebel Nell anticipates opening in November 2025.

“We’re recognized for putting people first, and Rebel Nell lives that every day. Welcoming Rebel Nell to our downtown Grand Rapids building is a natural extension of how we want to show up for this community. Together, we’re creating a space where people matter more than transactions,” said Brad Kessel, President and CEO of Independent Bank.

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