“Who gets to be remembered?” That’s a question Detroit’s mural scene boldly answers. We’re standing before My Journee Mural. It’s more than just paint on a wall. This artwork is a vibrant thread in Detroit’s ever-evolving story. The city’s streets have become canvases. Artists use them to celebrate Detroit’s spirit. My Journee Mural is one example of this creative explosion.
Since 2015, the Detroit Mural Project has documented this art form. Viranel Clerard is the man behind it. He has diligently researched Detroit’s public art. He ties in Detroit’s history. He documents public art. Clerard engages cultural staples. He also teaches art appreciation to children. He believes art should benefit the community. It should not just be self-promotion.
Detroit boasts over 500 murals. The city ranks high on national street art lists. Detroit aims for the top spot. The City Walls program began seven years ago. It combats blight with beauty. Artists transform vandalized walls into vibrant murals.
Ijania Cortez is a Detroit artist. She inspires connections through her murals. Her portraits feature people from the community. She celebrates everyday heroes. Cortez highlights who gets to be revered. “My work is about who monuments are made to” says Cortez.
My Journee Mural is part of this movement. It makes art accessible to everyone. It turns everyday spaces into sources of joy. The murals remind us of the strength and unity of Detroit’s neighborhoods.
The city supports artists through fellowships. They also scout sites for public art. The city recommends artists for commercial projects. Detroit wants to cultivate homegrown talent. They want to make it easier for artists to make a living.
Rochelle Riley is Detroit’s director of arts and culture. She sees fresh canvas everywhere. She connects artists with businesses. Riley wants open space covered in paint. “There’s a wall” Riley says.
Waleed Johnson created “The Spirit” mural. It depicts a Black woman holding the city’s symbols. He wanted to humanize the Spirit of Detroit. Johnson said he was raised by a single Black woman. He wanted to give representation to the Black women of the city.
CANVS is an art technology company. It partnered with Detroit to create a searchable online mural gallery. Ralph Andres is the co-founder and CEO of CANVS. He said Detroit’s street art stands out. The street art has a story embedded into it. It inspires and speaks to you.
My Journee Mural contributes to Detroit’s unique identity. It reflects the city’s spirit. The mural adds beauty to the urban landscape. It shows Detroit’s commitment to art and community. It also shows the talent of Detroit’s artists.
So, as you stand before My Journee Mural remember this. You’re not just looking at a painting. You’re witnessing a story unfold. It’s a story of Detroit’s past, present and future. It’s a story written in color and creativity. This mural is a powerful reminder of the city’s artistic soul.