Michiganders have plenty of opportunities to appreciate great art. From the Detroit Institute of Arts to various museums throughout the state, Michigan offers just as much manmade beauty as it does natural beauty. But if you’re not from the Detroit area (or even if you are!), you might not be familiar with one of the state’s most compelling attractions: The Heidelberg Project. Here’s a short history of the project, as well as a description of how you can get involved with this unique Michigan site.
If you’re driving past Heidelberg Street on the East Side of Detroit, you might find yourself smack dab in the middle of a vibrant, colorful neighborhood dotted with rainbow-painted houses, intricate yard sculptures, and huge public art installations. You’ve stumbled upon the Heidelberg Project.
The Heidelberg Project was started by Detroit artist Tyree Guyton in 1989. His ultimate vision is the creation of an "artistic cultural village" that will bring new life, diversity, and beauty to the neighborhood he grew up in — a neighborhood that has faced urban decay and destruction. The Heidelberg Project has now developed into a community organization that seeks to improve the lives of Detroit residents by way of artistic expression and inspiration.
Visitors to the Heidelberg Project are asked to consider the question, "Is this art, or is this junk?" Many would argue that the Project has breathed new life into an area of Detroit that was once on its way to becoming a ghost town. In recent years, the Heidelberg Project has attracted upwards of 50,000 guests annually.
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Flickr/Chris Dilts
Most of the art installations at the Heidelberg Project are created using found objects and recycled materials. Many of these materials have been retrieved from the streets of Detroit, giving the Project a sentimental, if not slightly eerie, feel. Whether it’s an old bicycle turned into a sculpture or a house that looks like something out of a fairy tale, you’re sure to see some one-of-a-kind pieces at The Heidelberg Project.
The Heidelberg Project offers guided tours, but visitors are more than welcome to explore on their own. If you’re interested in getting more involved, the Project is always accepting donations and volunteers. That’s right — you can take a firsthand role in creating, curating, and overseeing the unique art that makes up the Heidelberg Project.
For more information about the Heidelberg Project, click here.
A visit to or volunteer session with the Heidelberg Project will certainly make an impact on you and your family. What a unique and beautiful way to celebrate art and diversity in the city of Detroit. And you’ll only find it in Michigan!
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