Almost 60 years ago, a generation of people were inspired by a movement that began in Detroit:the creation of Motown Records. The combination of “motor” and “town” helped to redefine Detroit and more importantly ushered in the racial integration of pop music in the 60’s. Art has a way of helping to heal and integrate people, ideas and communities and make them better.

I just spent three days in downtown Detroit getting a feel for the flavor of the city and the “maker” movement that were established there. Art, music and culture are at the core of the rebirth of this city and while it has a long way to go, you get the feeling that the upswing is in play. We visitedShinola, The Heidelberg Project, Eastern Market and Detroit Art Institute. And we got to hang at the MOPOP Festival and watched new bands and the School of Rock All Stars bring a cool experience to the people of Motown.

I’m an optimistic guy at heart. Put good people together with good ideas, add a touch of creative flavor and a little edge and I want to spend some time there. Detroit is no longer licking its wounds. It is a grand city with great potential and I assure you that in the next decade or two, you will see this place thriving.

And artists and makers and creative thinkers will be at the center of the action.

Check out more photos from Detroit here.

Matt Ross
Founder
#MondayThoughts #RemakingDetroit
matt@oneriverschool.com