Sparrow Caregiver’s Artwork Showcased on Products at Meijer

A Sparrow Health System caregiver who wanted to show her daughters that “women can do cool things” is one of three Midwesterners to have their art featured on a special collection of products at Meijer in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Misty Gunter Russian, an Eaton Rapids resident who works in Sparrow’s finance department, said she finds it “surreal” that her artwork is now depicted on everything from makeup bags to sticky notes and is available throughout Meijer Supercenters across the Midwest. The products went on sale March 1 and are available through April 1. Russian said some store managers have told her they’ve had to restock her items.

Russian’s distinctive artwork depicts a silhouette of diverse female images against a nature backdrop.

“I was really trying to highlight that diversity is beautiful in everything,” Russian said.

It was selected from hundreds of entries after Meijer put out a call for culturally inspired art in late 2021 as part of its ongoing efforts to support underrepresented communities. The winning pieces were selected by Meijer merchants based on team member votes. Meijer is donating 5% of sales to the American Heart Association’s Life is Why campaign in the artists’ states.

Russian said she began painting years ago as a stress release and started again after her daughters, ages 4 and 8, were born. Her mother-in-law suggested she enter the Meijer contest, and Russian said her family “is just as proud as can be.”

Encouraged by her Meijer recognition, Russian has started her own art company that includes creating outdoor murals, including one for the Hamlin Township Fire Department. She said she’s especially glad to serve as a creative example to her daughters.