A vibrant new mural that harkens back to the days of colorful post cards found in a multitude of souvenir shops now graces the patio wall at the popular Peat’s Cider Social in Stevensville, thanks to the handiwork of Angela and Rich Valha.
Southwest Michigan’s already remarkable art scene now sports the colorful addition as unveiled this evening at a formal ribbon cutting ceremony held at Peat’s Cider Social along Red Arrow Highway in Stevensville under the guidance of the team from the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. Designed to accentuate the already eclectic cider social patio, the new mural celebrates local artistry and pumps up community spirit.
The mural was commissioned by the crew at Peat’s Cider Social who just four years ago launched their business venture literally days before the pandemic threw a monkey wrench into their ambitious plans. Despite the rocky road thrown into their path Dan and Leah Peat, co-founders of Peat’s Original Cider, weathered the Covid storm and have continued to surge in popularity with their hand-crafted hard ciders alongside family fun of bowling and games in what, for years, had been the home to Lakeshore Lanes.
Dan and Leah believe in the importance of supporting small businesses and local artisans. Leah says, “Since opening in March of 2020, we’ve embraced the idea of using our space to provide a platform for talented artists and community members. It’s why we host Maker Mondays once a month and our Annual Halloween Makers Market.”
The brilliant new mural, skillfully crafted by the talented duo of Angela and Rich Valha, adorns the patio of Peat’s Cider Social, infusing the space with nostalgic flair. Angela, renowned for her expertise in watercolor, paint and chalk, brings her vision to life through intricate detailing. Her talent has garnered such titles as Best in Show and Viewers Choice at past St. Joseph Today Chalk the Block competitions. Angela’s artwork was also commissioned for United Way of SWMI and displayed at the Krasl Art Center. Complementing Angela’s vision, Rich is a seasoned creative director at Aisle Rocket, who infuses the mural with his graphic design skills honed through decades of working with local and national clients.
Angela says, “We were thrilled to be asked by Leah and Dan to take this on, and to be honest, a little intimidated, too. I couldn’t have done it without Rich’s expert design skills for the layout, and many hours of assistance taping, painting and cleaning to get it done.” She concludes, “We are very proud to have our art incorporated into this amazing outdoor space that the Peat’s have created for our community.”
Remarkably, it was revealed at tonight’s ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber’s Sarah Spoonholtz, that this was Angela’s first wall mural ever. Quite the debut, for sure. If your business is interested in a similar opportunity to punch up a wall with some vibrant imagery, you can reach Angela by email at avalha@outlook.com.
Hungry fans of Peat’s also got the chance to visit the Dixie Old-Fashioned Hot Dog Cart onsite serving up tasty food during the ceremony.
Peat’s Cider is a family-owned and operated business, producing hard cider and more on the family farm in Paw Paw. In 2020, owners Dan and Leah Peat, in partnership with Josh and Tiffany Cosner, opened their retro combination taproom and bowling alley at 6201 Red Arrow Highway in Stevensville serving up cider and entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere. Everyone is invited to gather to try their locally-made hard cider and then stay to socialize over bowling and arcade games. You can experience a sip of nostalgia with every pour when you visit Peat’s Cider Social.
