OUR PLAN

​With the successful model of founder Robert Onnes’ 333 Midland and Annex Gallery as our guide, and with the support of local artists and community stakeholders, our plan is to: 

• Purchase an enormous, vacant, blighted former factory in Detroit, directly adjacent to the Joe Louis Greenway.

• ​​Remediate and renovate the industrial property, making it safe, attractive, and secure.
• Redevelop the building’s old office blocks and immediate industrial spaces into 60 affordable artists’ studios with access to communal arts facilities and large-scale equipment for creating art in a variety of fields (painting, sculpting, photography, glasswork, metalwork, woodwork, digital art, design, music, dance, theater, etc.).
• Redevelop the industrial bays as uniquely flexible spaces for sharing and promoting local art through art fairs, concerts, performances, exhibitions, real-time art production, art classes, and more.
• Create a “Main Street” that opens directly onto the Joe Louis Greenway, offering direct access to diverse art experiences, galleries, gathering spaces, gift shops, and a café
• ​Create spaces for special events and organized gatherings (weddings, galas, seminars, etc).

The BIG Art will not only cultivate the spaces, but also the culture and activities that: 

• Help local artists create, collaborate, share, network, earn, and grow;
•  Welcome audiences of all ages and stages to experience and engage in art;  
• Enhance community cohesion and pride;
•  ​Connect residents and visitors alike to Detroit’s arts scene;  
• Contribute to Detroit’s social, cultural, and economic growth.

Won’t you join us on this exciting and meaningful journey?