Dave Jordano "Detroit: Unbroken Down"
Detroit’s narrative has increasingly become intertwined with the concept of the “failed American Dream,” a decline documented extensively through various artistic mediums; however, photographer Dave Jordano’s work, particularly his series “Detroit – Unbroken Down,” offers a nuanced perspective, focusing on the resilience and creative spirit of those who remain in the city amidst economic hardship[1]. This body of work isn’t solely a catalog of urban decay, but a portrait of a community adapting and enduring, highlighting the human condition within a post-industrial landscape. Jordano’s photographs capture the everyday lives, small acts of creativity, and enduring spirit of Detroiters, challenging the prevailing narrative of complete abandonment.
History
Dave Jordano, a Detroit native, began the “Detroit – Unbroken Down” project as a response to what he perceived as overwhelmingly negative portrayals of his hometown[2]. The city, once a thriving industrial powerhouse and the fourth largest in the nation with a population exceeding two million in the mid-20th century, experienced a dramatic decline in the latter half of the 20th and early 21st centuries. By the time Jordano began his project, Detroit’s population had shrunk to approximately 714,000, roughly the same as it was a century prior, with a loss of over 25% in population within the previous decade. This demographic shift left vast areas of the city vacant, with enough empty space to encompass entire cities like Boston or San Francisco.
Jordano’s work, culminating in the published book *Detroit: Unbroken Down*, seeks to document the cultural and societal changes occurring in Detroit[3]. The project wasn’t conceived as a simple documentation of destruction, but rather as an exploration of what remained – the people, the neighborhoods, and the quiet acts of resilience that often go unnoticed. The photographs aim to present a realistic portrayal of Detroit, avoiding abstraction and focusing on the lived experiences of its residents. The book was published in the fall of 2015.
Culture
“Detroit – Unbroken Down” delves into the cultural anthropology of the city, examining the social, ethnic, and racial fabric of its neighborhoods[4]. Jordano’s approach involved focusing on the disadvantaged neighborhoods, believing these areas held the most compelling stories of adaptation and survival. His photographs capture scenes of everyday life – individuals tending to gardens, community gatherings, and moments of quiet contemplation – revealing a vibrant cultural landscape that persists despite the economic challenges. The series highlights the importance of these local communities, arguing that they are the true heart of the city, more significant than abandoned industrial sites.
The work intentionally avoids presenting Detroit as a symbol of failure, instead portraying it as a place where people continue to live, create, and build community[5]. Jordano’s photographs depict a city not defined by its decline, but by the resilience and resourcefulness of its inhabitants. Images range from a woman sleeping in a parking lot to celebrations on Belle Isle, illustrating the spectrum of experiences within the city. This approach challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of Detroit and to recognize the humanity within its struggles.
Neighborhoods
Jordano’s photographic exploration wasn’t limited to specific areas of Detroit, as he found potential for his project throughout the entire city[6]. However, he was particularly drawn to the most disadvantaged neighborhoods, believing that these areas offered the most poignant insights into the human condition within a struggling urban environment. The photographs document the unique character of these neighborhoods, showcasing the resilience of residents and the small acts of creativity that contribute to their vitality. Specific locales depicted in the series include Moran Street on the Eastside, and areas near East Warren Avenue.
The series emphasizes the importance of these neighborhoods as the building blocks of the city, contrasting them with the abandoned industrial plants and factories that often dominate the narrative of Detroit’s decline[7]. By focusing on the everyday lives of residents, Jordano’s work reveals the strength and diversity of Detroit’s communities, demonstrating that the city is more than just a collection of vacant lots and decaying infrastructure. The photographs serve as a visual record of these neighborhoods, preserving their stories and celebrating their enduring spirit.
Getting There
While “Detroit – Unbroken Down” is a photographic exploration of the city itself, understanding access to and within Detroit is relevant to appreciating the context of Jordano’s work. Detroit is a major transportation hub, with Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) serving as a significant international gateway[8]. The city is also served by Amtrak, providing rail connections to other major cities.
Within the city, the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) operates a bus system, and the QLine, a streetcar line, serves the Woodward Avenue corridor. However, public transportation options are limited compared to other major metropolitan areas, and many residents rely on personal vehicles. Jordano’s ability to access and document various neighborhoods likely depended on his mobility within the city, highlighting the challenges faced by residents with limited transportation options. The vastness of Detroit, stretching 140 square miles, further complicates transportation and underscores the importance of local communities in providing access to essential services and resources.
Detroit Photography Urban decay Post-industrial America Michigan