Detroit Month of Design: Detroit Window Design Classic

For the last 10 years, Detroit Month of Design has closed out the summer with a full month of events aimed at elevating the profile of Detroit’s art and design community. This year is no different. Even as the global pandemic shuts down many events and festivals, Detroit’s design community has found creative ways to still come together while remaining safe. 

One such way is happening courtesy of Norwest Gallery of Art, who launched their Detroit Window Design Classic competition last week. The event, directed by Norwest Gallery owner Asia Hamilton, pairs local artists with businesses to collaborate on reimagining storefronts as works of art for a chance at a $500 prize.

Hamilton says not only does this help connect artists and business owners, but also helps to add more walkability to the Rosedale Park neighborhood, where most of the installations are located. 

Artists were given a stipend and materials donated by Arts & Scraps to use in the construction of their installations which are based on the businesses. DaTrice Clark will be working with Pages Bookshop, Tony Rave will be working with Cutz Lounge and Martinae Patton will be collaborating with Sigees Clothing – to name just a few. Storefronts in Southwest Detroit and along McNichols are also participating.

For the full list and map of participating stores, visit dwdclassic.com.