Michigan - Heidelberg Project

Heidelberg Project


Part 1

Part 2



This surreal landscape typifies the Heidelberg Project, a multi-block artistic work that transforms abandoned homes in one of Detroit's many bad neighborhoods into something that both speaks to the poor condition of the urban landscape as well as improves upon the blank slate that was there. Many homes have been torn down to leave empty lots, while many remain in only their most skeletal form. There are recurring themes, from the obvious such as stuffed animals, polka dots, and God to the less obvious such as moving vehicles (shopping carts, taxis), faces (including tiki masks), and stacked objects (aforementioned carts, doors). Some of the art is found objects, while some is created. Some is brightly painted, while some is drab (the animals are dyed white). The art clearly respects no boundaries, taking over any part of the landscape it chooses including windows, roofs, trees, utility poles, and on into the street. Named after the main drag, Heidelberg Street, it's a must-see for any tourist willing to take a small risk and venture out of Greek Town without using the freeway. Due to its niche popularity, the Project itself is actually fairly safe. The artist tends to his work as well, if you can identify him among the many people present.

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