Connecting Community Through Design: Canfield Connect and Inclusion by Design Recap

September 30, 2024

As part of our ongoing mission to foster connection, creativity, and community in East Canfield Village, Canfield Consortium proudly participated in Detroit Month of Design this year. Our efforts were highlighted through the East Canfield Art Park and Innovation Hub event and our co-founder Kim Theus’s involvement in the “Inclusion by Design” panel discussion.

Canfield Connect: Building Bridges Through Art and Design

Canfield Connect represents our commitment to the community by creating spaces that inspire and unite. Designed in collaboration with Jima Studio, Canfield Connect uses the power of design to address community needs, fostering an environment where residents can gather, create, and connect. This project breathes new life into previously underutilized spaces, promoting engagement through art installations, greenery, and thoughtful urban design elements that reflect the spirit of East Canfield Village.

Through Canfield Connect, we aim to honor our neighborhood’s history while paving the way for a vibrant future. By reimagining these spaces, we are not just making aesthetic improvements; we are building bridges that connect people, ideas, and opportunities.

A Seat at the Table: Kim Theus at Inclusion by Design

We were also thrilled to have Kim Theus, co-founder of Canfield Consortium, serve as a panelist for the Inclusion by Design event during Detroit Month of Design. This event, hosted at the N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art, brought together voices from across Detroit’s design community to discuss the importance of inclusivity in design.

Kim spoke passionately about our commitment to inclusive design in East Canfield Village, stating, “Canfield Consortium is a response to injustice.” She emphasized how initiatives like Canfield Connect use art to fill the gaps left by the city, noting, “We’re using art to address what is neglected by the city.” 

“As a legacy resident, I’m rooted in this community, I’m not going anywhere.” 

Kim Theus

Her words underscored the importance of centering community voices in the design process, ensuring that the spaces we create truly reflect the needs and aspirations of those who live in them.

The panel explored how design can break down barriers, promote equity, and create spaces where everyone feels seen and heard. Kim’s insights underscored the importance of centering community voices in the design process, ensuring that the spaces we create truly reflect the needs and aspirations of those who live in them.

Upcoming Event: East Canfield Art Park and Innovation Hub

Our very own East Canfield Art Park and Innovation Hub will be featured, and we will be hosting a special event to showcase the 2024/2025 curated art display. The event will include an artist talk, music, and refreshments, providing a unique opportunity to experience art and innovation in our community.

Event Details:

  • Date: September 29, 2024
  • Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • Location: East Canfield Art Park, 4425 Lemay

The event will feature works from renowned artists Mind of Mila, Nivek Monet, and Trashcan Terry. Shania Richardson of SeeYouMvment will also be a featured speaker, bringing her powerful voice to the event. We hope to see you there to celebrate art, design, and community!

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on this year’s Detroit Month of Design, we are inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead. Canfield Connect and events like Inclusion by Design remind us that when we design with intention and inclusivity, we create more than just beautiful spaces—we create opportunities for connection, understanding, and growth.

We invite you to stay engaged with our work as we continue to transform East Canfield Village. Together, we can build a community that not only looks better but feels better for everyone who calls it home.

Continue

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