About Us
The mission of the Grand Rapids Artists Bureau is to encourage, elevate, and strengthen visual artists and organizations in the Greater Grand Rapids area.
The Grand Rapids Artists Bureau’s functions and goals are far reaching. GRAB is an electronic artist’s promotional platform that brings attention and support to visual artists working and living within the community of Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. GRAB engages organizations in the community to help promote events and artists. GRAB is also an educational resource that publishes articles about current artists, artworks, and historically significant artistic movements.
Kevin Boehm
Founder and President of GRAB
Kevin Boehm is a lifelong champion of the visual arts with over 35 years of experience as a gallerist, curator, and arts advocate. As Founder and President of GRAB, he draws on a rich history that includes selling art in Grand Rapids’ primary market and Palm Springs’ secondary market, curating acclaimed public exhibitions and installing shows throughout the region. With a deep love for art history and a keen eye for emerging trends, Kevin brings creative vision and leadership to GRAB’s efforts to celebrate and elevate Grand Rapids’ visual arts community.
Jill May
Fundraising and Board Member
Jill May is a seasoned fundraising professional with over 20 years of experience growing and strengthening nonprofit organizations. As President of Trisector Consulting, she has built startup fundraising departments for arts and culture organizations, developing sustainable funding models from the ground up. Her expertise in major gifts, corporate partnerships, and donor strategy supports GRAB’s emerging initiatives and helps advance Grand Rapids’ creative community.
Nuel Friend
Artist and Board Member
Nuel Friend is a painter and visual storyteller whose work explores texture, material, and intuition. With a background in graphic design and fine art, he creates layered paintings that invite viewers into an experience that is both abstract and deeply felt. Rooted in Michigan but known beyond, Nuel’s art challenges and expands ideas of form and surface. His thoughtful approach and evolving vision make him a vital voice for the region’s creative community in his role on the GRAB board of directors.
Mick Rutowski
Designer and Project Manager
Mick Rutowski is a designer, artist, and emerging creative force at GRAB. With a BFA from Kendall College of Art & Design and a rich freelance background, he brings intention and clarity to his work at GRAB, helping shape its creative direction and community presence. With a portfolio of professional work built on supporting independent and local musicians, working with GRAB allows Mick to integrate their passions for graphic design and working with small, local artists.