Kresge Arts in Detroit
Kresge Arts in Detroit is a program of The Kresge Foundation committed to supporting artists who live and work in metro Detroit, awarding over $10 million to artists since 2008[1]. The initiative provides financial support through no-strings-attached awards and fellowships, aiming to elevate artists and foster a thriving artistic community within the region. It represents a significant investment in the cultural landscape of Detroit and surrounding areas.
History
The Kresge Foundation’s commitment to the arts has roots in the company’s origins. In 1924, when the Kresge Company was 25 years old and its founder, Sebastian S. Kresge, was 57, he established a foundation to commemorate the anniversary[2]. While the initial focus wasn’t specifically on the arts, the foundation’s evolution led to a growing recognition of the importance of artistic expression and cultural vitality. The formal establishment of Kresge Arts in Detroit came later, building upon this foundation of philanthropic commitment.
The program officially launched in 2008, representing a deliberate effort by The Kresge Foundation to strengthen the artistic communities of metropolitan Detroit[3]. Kresge Arts in Detroit is administered by the College for Creative Studies, leveraging the institution’s expertise and network within the Detroit arts scene. This partnership ensures the program’s alignment with the needs and aspirations of local artists. Since its inception, the program has awarded 407 artists, including 18 Kresge Eminent Artist Awards and 317 Kresge Artist Fellowships, alongside 72 Gilda Awards[4].
Geography
Kresge Arts in Detroit focuses its support on artists residing and working within the three counties of metro Detroit: Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb[5]. This geographic scope encompasses the city of Detroit itself, as well as its surrounding suburbs and communities. The program’s commitment to this specific region reflects a desire to invest in the artistic talent present within the local ecosystem and contribute to the revitalization of the area.
The selection of these three counties is strategic, recognizing the interconnectedness of the Detroit metropolitan area. Wayne County contains the city of Detroit, a historic hub for artistic innovation and cultural expression. Oakland and Macomb counties, while more suburban in character, also boast vibrant arts communities and a growing number of artists. By encompassing all three counties, Kresge Arts in Detroit aims to provide support to a diverse range of artists across the region, regardless of their specific location.
Culture
Kresge Arts in Detroit operates with a core set of values centered on equity and social justice. The program believes that a just society ensures all individuals, regardless of background or identity, have the opportunity to thrive[6]. This commitment is reflected in its efforts to dismantle systemic barriers within the arts and culture sector, utilizing a racial equity lens and an anti-oppression approach in all aspects of its work.
In 2022, Kresge Arts in Detroit achieved W.A.G.E. certification, demonstrating its dedication to fair compensation for artists[7]. W.A.G.E. (Working Artists and the Greater Economy) is a national program that recognizes organizations voluntarily paying artist fees meeting minimum payment standards. This certification signifies Kresge Arts in Detroit’s commitment to establishing a sector-wide standard for artist compensation and ensuring equitable conditions for artistic labor. The program undergoes an annual review to maintain this certification.
Notable Residents
Kresge Arts in Detroit has recognized 18 metro Detroit artists with its prestigious Kresge Eminent Artist Award, a $100,000 prize for lifetime artistic achievement[8]. These recipients represent a diverse range of artistic disciplines and backgrounds, showcasing the breadth of talent within the region. While specific names are not detailed in the provided sources, the award highlights the program’s commitment to celebrating and supporting established artists who have made significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Detroit.
The Kresge Artist Fellowships, awarded to 317 artists to date, also recognize exceptional talent and potential. These fellowships provide financial support to artists at various stages of their careers, enabling them to pursue their creative endeavors and advance their artistic practice. The program’s support has demonstrably improved the lives of artists, accelerated their career trajectories, and opened new possibilities in their art[9].