The Heidelberg Project

How many types of art can you say attracts all types of people? Young and old? Rich and poor? If you ask me, not much. This is the type of art that evokes awe in anyone who lays their eyes upon it. It is not displayed within the confines of a museum, art gallery or school. It is displayed on the streets within a two block radius in a rundown neighborhood of Detroit. 3600 Heidelberg Street to be exact. They call this "The Heidelberg Project." It is an outdoor art gallery in an urban community, open for the world to see. Founded by Tyree Guyton for the purpose of free expression. To entertain, to intrigue and speak through the art of symbolism. They take what most people would believe is trash and create their own masterpiece. Who are they? They are local artists hoping to spring some color and happiness into the streets of Detroit. They are trying to influence others to also want to make a change in the broken down streets of our home.

Many of the pieces displayed are attempts at telling stories, usually stories of currents events and issues in our society. For this, there was a bit of a cause for controversy, which resulted in a demolition of Guyton's art gallery twice, both in 1991 and 1999. Now, who would do such a thing? One of the many unanswered questions of life. The only thing I can tell you is to get your butt down here and check out this ever-changing, ever-blooming and ever-colorful FREE art gallery. Visit the website, there are many ways to get involved and help out!