Grand Haven itself is amazing—natural beauty, water, a vibrant Main Street, and unmatched support for small businesses. The support for small business is untouchable. It’s a true community, not a competition.
– Julie Sanford, Studio JSD
“At Studio JSD, we carry the work of over 30 artists, primarily jewelry and metal artists, as well as two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, giftware, rough materials, gemstones, cabochons, and maker supplies.
My journey began at 16, after inheriting my late father’s jewelry tools. With my high school art teacher, we started a jewelry program, and I learned the craft there. After graduation, I spent 15 years working at Siegel Jewelers in Grand Rapids. It was all I ever wanted.
I continued to grow my skills at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, selling my jewelry at art fairs while studying at Western Michigan University, where I earned my visual art teaching degree. After five years teaching art, things came full circle. Now, at Studio JSD, I still create and exhibit my work while supporting a vibrant community of jewelry makers.”
“Our studio began in 2007, initially as a workspace, adding retail in 2010. The sense of community here is incredible—collaborative, never competitive. We offer everything from beginner “make-and-take” classes to intensive professional fabrication courses, and advanced workshops with expert instructors from across the country.
I love everything about it—the creative zone, the people, the friendships formed here, and watching artists share and grow together.
Grand Haven itself is amazing—natural beauty, water, a vibrant Main Street, and unmatched support for small businesses. The support for small business is untouchable. It’s a true community, not a competition.”
