Enjoying Art in Great Historic Spaces
The front page story in Wednesday’s Free Press highlighted Detroit’s new Moran Bondaroff Gallery. The first installation, which opens this week, is an exhibit of contemporary art entitled “War Games”. What’s intriguing is that the new gallery is in the restored Visitation Catholic Church, known more recently as the Woods Cathedral Church of God. The building, constructed in 1925 and abandoned since 2008, has soaring gothic arches and original frescoes. Paul Johnson purchased the structure in 2014 for $6,700 dollars and invested $250,000 to rehab it. As a native Detroiter, I’m excited to see adaptive use of historic structures. As a museum professional, I grin ear-to-ear when people gather to experience art and culture in these great spaces.
Here in the Village, “Art Mix, Mingle, and Linger” (June 16-18) is another example of the terrific synergy between art and historic spaces. On June 16 the Troy Historical Society in partnership with the Image and Arts Council of Troy will open a special installation of local art, including paintings, ceramics, metal, and fiber art, all exhibited in our historic buildings. That evening, artists and the general public are invited to enjoy the art and mingle at an open-air reception featuring wine, hors oeuvres, and live music. Then, on Friday and Saturday, Village visitors can continue to enjoy the exhibit, watch artist demonstrations, and make their own art in special workshops. All the details for the event are easily accessed through the Village home page.
So add art to your summer plans. Join us at Art Mix, Mingle, and Linger and for more information about Visitation Church and the Moran Bondaroff, go to
https://www.detroiturbex.com/content/churches/woods/index.html
and
https://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/arts/2016/05/31/moran-bondaroff-detroit-gallery/84996282/
