On a visit to the Heidelberg Project outdoor art installation in Detroit, we happened across longtime Detroit resident and artist Tim Burke. Tim filled us in on the tragedy of, and artistic opportunity in, the destruction of some of Detroit’s most interesting and historic buildings. In addition to losing architectural landmarks, artworks within these buildings are also lost.
Kyle Lawson and James Peyer discuss their innovative strategy to get biotechnology into schools and hackerspaces. Their company otyp was formed with the purpose of making equipment and information accessible to anyone who wants to get started with genetic research and experiments.
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.
