Clarkston native Alex Gilford, on behalf of the Detroit Institute of Arts, recently donated an original watercolor painting he created, “Village of Clarkston,” to the Clarkston Community Historical Society. The painting was transformed into a mural at the Union Woodshop in downtown Clarkston last year through a partnership between the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Clarkston Cultural Arts Council.
“The painting has played a special and unique role in our city and we are excited to preserve this piece of our community’s history,” said Toni Smith, director of the Clarkston Heritage Museum. “It beautifully captures the essence of Clarkston from someone who has experienced it first-hand. We treasure this painting and look forward to displaying it for future generations to enjoy.”
The mural was completed under the supervision of DIA artists Gilford and Vito Valdez, and Denyse Couture, creative director of the Clarkston Cultural Arts Council.
It was one of three Community Public Art Projects facilitated by the DIA and local nonprofits in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties last year.
“Public art pieces like the Clarkston mural are a unique way for the DIA to bring artwork into communities for residents to enjoy,” said Salvador Salort-Pons, DIA director. “We’re excited the original painting will soon be on display in the community for many years to come.”
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is home to more than 60,000 works that comprise a multicultural survey of human creativity from ancient times through the 21st century.