“You Belong Here!” Public Art

Ferndale Celebrates Diversity and Community Spirit with the
First Annual Downtown Ferndale Mural Program

Downtown Ferndale is proud to announce the successful completion of the first annual Downtown Ferndale Mural Program, an initiative that brought together artists from diverse backgrounds to create captivating 6 murals and 1 art installation throughout our vibrant city. This program was organized by the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority (DDA) in partnership with the Ferndale Arts & Cultural Commission, aimed to enrich the visual experience of Downtown Ferndale while fostering a sense of belonging for all who visit.
 
The theme for the inaugural program, “You Belong Here,” reflected the values of inclusivity and community that define Ferndale. The selected artists were chosen from over 50 applications for how they encapsulated the spirit of this theme in their creations. The result has been vibrant and dynamic murals that celebrate the rich diversity of our city.

2023 “You Belong Here” Selected Artists & Locations

Artist: Melanie Formica (She/Her), Detroit resident
Location: The Emory, rear entrance, 22700 Woodward Ave
Mural Title: Dolls of Identity
Website: melanieformicaart.com
Instagram: @melk666art
 
This piece is about sending joy, light and encouragement into the universe. “Living life is hard for all of us in very different and relative ways. The world needs all sorts of people who have lived all sorts of lives,” says Melanie of her inspiration for her art.

Artist: India Solomon (She/Her), Ferndale resident
Location: Natural Patch, West Troy St entrance, 221 West Nine Mile West Troy
Mural Title: A Chance to Thrive
Website: indiasolomon.com
Instagram: @indysolomon
 
India’s mural, “A Chance to Thrive,” explores what it means to live well and feel good. With a balanced color scheme and warmth, the artwork symbolizes Ferndale’s commitment to inclusivity and offers a meditation on thriving.
 
Artist: Shana Preuett (She/Her), Royal Oak resident
Location: Bakehouse46, 301 West Nine Mile
Mural Title: Celebrate All That You Are
Website: smpartanddesign.com
Instagram: @.art.design
 
Shana’s mural celebrates individuality and belonging with playful imagery. The mural’s simplicity allows viewers to find their own stories within the symbolism, reflecting the spirit of community support and acceptance in Ferndale.
 

Artist: Stephanie Chisholm (They/Them), Sterling Heights resident
Location: Breckenridge Parking Lot, 22901-22965 Woodward Avenue
Mural Title: Destination Paradise
Instagram: @stephanieprism
 
“Destination Paradise,” is an abstract mural abundant with colors and patterns, inspired by Yusef Lateef’s song of the same name. The artwork represents an active neighborhood where each mark contributes to completing the larger harmonious composition, symbolizing a sense of belonging.
 
 
Artist: Ammy Amorette Spencer (She/Her), Grant Township resident
Location: Broock Real Estate, 413 West Nine Mile
Mural Title: UNO
Website: ammyamorette.scd.cl
Facebook: @ammyamorettepainter
 
Ammy’s mosaic mural, “UNO,” symbolizes unity and collaboration, demonstrating that everyone is part of the same world. The artwork aims to foster a sense of belonging and happiness among viewers.
 
 
Artist: Tony Whlgn (He/Him), Detroit resident
Location: Howe’s Bayou, rear entrance, 22848 Woodward
Mural Title: You Belong Here
Website: toneytonytone.com
Instagram: @tonywhlgn
 
Tony envisioned a vibrant and fun safari-themed mural, where plants, trees, and hidden characters represent the diversity of the city and spell the phrase “You Belong Here.” The artwork aims to activate and celebrate the community’s youth and new businesses.
 

Artist: Su Majewski (She/Her), St. Clair Shores resident
Location: The dot Parking Garage, 221 West Troy Street, and several other locations around downtown
Website: www.sumajetski.weebly.com
Instagram: @sumajetski
 
Su’s mirror faces mural series reflects the diversity of Ferndale, where visitors can see themselves within the artwork. The portraits represent equality and togetherness, embodying the theme “You Belong Here.” What began as a pandemic project for this artist will now be shared with the entire Downtown Ferndale community!