Summer in the City's mural program puts suburban youth to work painting murals in Detroit. The result is twofold: the beautification of blank walls and exposure to neighborhoods that kids might not otherwise discover. "Most people can find Downtown and that's about it," says Summer's painting and murals director Bob Spence. "We're always trying to introduce them to the city."
Spence estimates the program has completed between 20 and 30 murals this season alone all across Detroit: Grandmont-Rosedale, several in the area around Marygrove College, Gratiot and Chene, E. Warren near Balduck Park, Southwest Detroit and, most recently, on the south wall of
Canine to Five in Midtown.
The murals are typically designed by Spence and a few other artists with input and approval from the building owner. Liz Blondy, owner of Canine to Five, is pleased with the result. "I really admire the program," she says. "Actually, I'm honored that they chose to work with me."
Summer in the City is hosting an Ice Cream Extravaganza on August 13 at Marygrove at which they will debut a video about the program. There will also be music and awards. Learn more and buy tickets
here.
Sources: Bob Spence, Summer in the City and Liz Blondy, Canine to Five
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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