A cafe in Corktown,
5 Elements Gallery, is mixing Detroit's hip-hop culture with the colorful work of local artists. Bright graffiti wraps the gallery's Michigan Ave. exterior and owner DJ Sicari allows local artists from different crews to compete over space on the wall behind.
Inside the 3,000-square-foot former party store, patrons can enjoy coffee and free wi-fi at small cafe tables (some with chessboards) while peeping the painting and sculptures on display from local artists. There is also a performance stage that has hosted artists from Monica Blaire to FINALE to Slum Village. "Everyone who is anyone in hip-hop comes here," says public relations director Piper Carter. "The hip-hop we do here is, quote unquote, real hip hop. It's organic. It's more about the essence of the music, and the culture." 5 Elements is also available to host community meetings for local residents and business owners.
The cafe opens at noon Tuesday through Sunday. Art shows run every six weeks and the gallery hosts monthly parties such as reggae night. Sicari, who opened 5 Elements in August of 2008, says something is usually happening every weekend, but the events are sometimes word of mouth. "Those who know, know," says Sicari.
5 Elements is located at 2125 Michigan Ave. just east of the Michigan Central Station. Call 313-283-7177.
Source: DJ Sicari, 5 Elements
Writer: Ryan Kelly
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