The Return of The Local Creative Highlight Series

Returning for the first time since 2023, two new editorial profiles reveal how four local creatives are redefining work, craft, and community in Northeast Michigan. Series returns November 18.

Alpena, MI | Stories from Northeast Michigan often follow familiar themes: nostalgia for what used to be, criticism of what’s missing, or a measured optimism for what might come next. What’s frequently overlooked is what’s happening right now: the growth, the opportunity, and the individuals finding new ways to make their mark in the place they call home.

At The Sunset Project, part of our mission is to help grow the cultural and creative community across Northeast Michigan in an effort to make the region a better place for all. This includes recognizing those whose work gives the area its identity and depth, and plays a meaningful role in the region’s growing creative economy.

Some are artists, some are entrepreneurs, and many are a combination of the two. What they share is a commitment to building a life grounded in their craft, perspective, and ambition. Sharing their stories provides a clearer view of a region that’s rich in creativity and supported by more industries than many realize.

Today, we announce the return of the Local Creative Highlight Series, featuring two new stories and a more editorial approach that highlights the creative, cultural, and economic contributions of those living and working across Northeast Michigan. Each feature was produced in partnership with Alpena-based writers and photographers whose work helps bring these narratives to life.

Form and Flow profiles photographer Emily Skiba and surfboard shaper Josh Weisfeld, a couple who blend two unique disciplines and illustrate the growing mix of skills and perspectives shaping the region’s creative scene.

Thread and Chain features Maren Winter and Levi Goebel, a couple reshaping a design-first apparel brand and a community-focused bike shop, representing an emerging generation building long-term creative careers in Northeast Michigan.

Their paths differ, from how they came to the region to what they hope to build. But they reinforce the same core point: Northeast Michigan is more than what meets the eye. It's shaped by the people who invest their talent, vision, and passion into their communities, and who help the region grow in ways that often go unnoticed.

These stories will be available for free on our website, with Form and Flow releasing on November 18, followed by Thread and Chain on November 20.

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This iteration of the Local Creative Highlight Series was proudly produced with financial support from the