Detroit Month of Design puts ideas in motion
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A past Detroit Month of Design event. Photo: Courtesy of Detroit Month of Design
In its 16th year, the Detroit Month of Design is showing how creative industries translate into concrete action.
Why it matters: Throughout September, artists, designers and entrepreneurs will show how design jumps off the page to help us navigate our ever-evolving communities.
Most events are free and open to the public.
State of play: The theme, "Design Moves the Future," will be reflected in various events from exhibitions, panels and product debuts to tours that explore design studios and hands-on workshops.
Context: Detroit is the sole UNESCO-designated City of Design in the U.S. That makes it part of a global collaborative network prioritizing creativity when tackling civic challenges and growing economies.
- Detroit is also recognized for its history of inventing industrial design, according to Design Core Detroit, which runs the festival.
Some highlights of the design month calendar:
🌉 "Between Your Love and Mine": Architectural installations that reflect the U.S.-Canada border as a place for vibrant cultural exchange instead of political tension.
- Sept. 3-30 in Little Village, 1265 Parkview St.
🧑🎓 "Live/Work": The Cranbrook Academy of Art's open studio event shows how its graduates' work helps others — say, with economic opportunities or community engagement.
- Sept. 19, 12-5pm at 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills.
⚒️ Workshop: Build and customize a table/stool with designer Tony Printz.
- 1-5pm for two days, Sept. 12-13, at Chroma, 2937 E Grand Blvd. in Detroit.
🪩 Eastern Market After Dark: The month's signature event. Grab drinks and food, experience design installations and visit businesses and artists' displays. Get there early for parking.
- 6-11pm Sept. 17.
Go deeper: The full calendar