We drop by the design studio of Ralph Taylor, who creates brilliant, bold, colorful and creative costumes for Mardi Gras and carnival celebrations. Originally from Trinidad, Ralph made his way to Detroit where he still practices the craft he picked up while growing up and traveling through the Caribbean.
On an incredibly hot Michigan July day, we stopped by the grounds of Theater Bizarre to talk to it’s visionary, John Dunivant. John, an illustrator by trade, spoke to us about his inspirations for the carnival / masquerade / party / theme park he created, and gave us a tour of the grounds which formerly hosted this unique event.
Kristine Diven and Micho Detronik of District VII explain the interactive elements of their art installation at Maker Faire Detroit 2011. Art and electronics collide in a project which explores surveillance and humanity.
Pastor Barry Randolph and Jeff Sturges talk to us about the Mt. Elliot Makerspace, which is located in the basement of the Church of the Messiah in East Detroit. The role that the church plays in the community is explained, and the bright side of urban blight is explored.
Sarah Lapinski of Wound Menswear shows us her studio and talks about her love of highways and cities, especially Detroit. A unique twist on fashion, Wound is a line that speaks to those who appreciate, but aren’t obsessed with, fashion.
Bryce Moore talks to us about furniture, commodification, and democratic design from his shop in the nearly abandoned basement of Northland Mall in Detroit. We also learn about how his ShopBot and automation make custom, high-end design possible, even in a fluctuating economy.
A chance meeting with the EastSide Riders Bike Club leads us to the Georgia Street Community Center. Both organizations are dedicated to improving their community, through education, gardening, and neighborhood involvement.
