May 14th 2012 - Detroit, MI. As the chill of winter has given way to the warm hues of spring in Detroit, we’re excited to unveil one of the largest public arts projects in Metro Detroit history. During the initial phase, executed in the first 2 weeks of May, over 25 internationally renowned street artists converged on Detroit and Hamtramck for an expansive public arts project.
To coincide with the first phase of the project, 1xRUN is excited to release a series of prints with several of the participating artists including RISK, SEVER, STEEL, REYES, DMOTE, WANE, CES, REVOK, TRISTAN EATON, DABS & MYLA, 123 KLAN, POSE, ZES, ASKEW and NEKST. Proceeds from the print sales will continue to provide funding for the ongoing project.
“The artists participating in Detroit Beautification Project span the globe and provide an international and unique perspective on art in the public domain. We as Detroiters should welcome with open arms these artists who have fallen in love with our city and choose to create here...” said Matt Eaton who spearheaded the project.
Beginning at Grand River Ave and Rosa Parks, near the Motorcity Casino on a group a vacant buildings, the project quickly expanded across town and throughout the cities of Detroit and Hamtramck. Building owners, community leaders and local residents have been overwhelmingly thrilled with the bold, colorful and uplifting murals.
Stirring up a bit of additional drama, a tongue-in-cheek memorial piece entitled “The Death of Street Art” by Atlanta based artist SEVER has catalyzed local debate and global discussion. Depicting the iconic characters created by legendary street artists Shepard Fairey, Os Gemeos,Barry McGee, Banksy, Futura 2000 and Kaws carrying a coffin on which a plaque reads “STREET ART”, the mural is painted on a building owned by the city of Hamtramck and stirred some 40+ residents to sign a petition in complaint. However, local businesses and residents quickly rallied and within just a few hours of what one local home-owner described as, “the best-attended city council meeting in a decade,” a hastily circulated counter-petition in support of the project garnered almost 200 signatures. The provocative image received significant coverage on international blogs and news sites and as yet remains pristine. Director of Community and Economic Development, Jason Friedmann says, “This kind of mural is absolutely appropriate for a city-owned building. Hamtramck is a cosmopolitan, creative powerhouse and remains proud to take ownership of such an internationally relevant artistic statement.
Over three days San Francisco based artist Reyes labored on a huge piece covering the three story side wall of a VFW hall in Hamtramck. This incredible mural now serves as a welcoming beacon expressing the progressive and creative attitude of the community.
The Detroit Beautification Project is an ongoing initiative by the sponsors and supporters, including Montana Cans, The Seventh Letter, 1xRUN, Contra Projects and 323East Gallery. Additional artists will be announced throughout the year. For up to date information you can follow@1xRUN @XIIIV @the7thletter @CONTRAprojects @323East on twitter or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Read more about the Project on
Huffington Post &
MetroTimes
About 1xRUN:
1xRUN is the premier online destination for exclusive one of a kind artwork in any and all forms. Working with leading and emerging artists from around the world, 1xRUN is focused on bringing limited-edition time released artwork to collectors across the globe. Here at 1xRUN, our artists are a special breed and so are our customers. We strive to offer a one of a kind product that suits both and is unlike anything else in the marketplace.
About 323East:
323East is a collection of creative energy materialized in a mashup of art, culture, lifestyle and creativity. Located 20 minutes north of downtown Detroit in Royal Oak, MI; 323East is home to over 400 artists with rotating works in a variety of mediums. Recent exhibitions include local and international artists Glenn Barr, John Dunivant, Ron Zakrin, Audrey Pongracz, Yumiko Kayukawa, and many more. Punk Rock Meets Counter Culture. To learn more visit 323East.com
About Montana Cans:
MONTANA is an art product company that has been influencing the art and street art scene for many years. MONTANA Team and founders continue to be visible, active members of the art and street art scene. MONTANA products are unparalleled in quality, assortment and variety.
About The Seventh Letter:
THE TRUTH aka Overachievers aka Loyalty and Royalty aka The best product on the block aka Google: TheSeventhLetter
About CONTRAprojects:
CONTRAprojects is a global project dedicated to supporting rebellious, visionary artists who straddle the worlds of high art and street art.
Some of the mural locations include:
Detroit
Ponyride bldg, Corktown
13939 Joseph Campau
Hamtramck
11443 / 11445 Joseph Campau
"Welcome to Hmtramck"
Joseph Campau & Hamtramck Blvd
8569 Joseph Campau
Roosevelt Field
8820 Joseph Campau
2384 Holbrook / Michigan and Brooklyn
2054 Caniff
Royal Oak
323east Gallery - 323 E. 4th Street
For additional information about the project or hi resolution photos please contact:
Matt Eaton - CONTRAprojects
Cell - 313-919-0059
E. matthew@contraprojects.com
Jesse Cory - 1xRUN / 323East
Direct - 248-246-9544
Cell - 313-300-0295
E. jesse@323east.com