The Coloring Museum defies the age-old parental warning: “Don’t draw on the walls!” Not only are you allowed to draw on the walls, but you’re encouraged to do so.
Art is often celebrated as a universal language, a medium through which individuals can express themselves, explore their creativity, and find solace. However, the unfortunate reality is that not all children have equal access to art outlets, and this issue is particularly pronounced among Black kids. Access to art can open many doors and allow children to find confidence and even careers that can be life-altering and for the better. Art offers numerous advantages, notably contributing to emotional well-being and positive mental health outcomes.
In response to this pressing need, the Coloring Museum has emerged, showcasing art visibility on Detroit’s Westside, providing a sanctuary for creativity and self-expression. This unique establishment is an interactive museum and coloring experience, revolutionizing the way art and self-care intertwine to create a space of happiness and freedom.
“I colored on the wall a few times as a youth,” Sherrie Savage, Illustrator and Owner of the Coloring Museum, said with a smile. “It’s nothing wrong with it. I feel like it’s a creative expression. That’s why I came up with the Coloring Museum.”
In a mission that goes beyond showcasing art, the Coloring Museum is about supporting minority artists and harnessing the therapeutic power of art to improve lives. Each month, the museum transforms its walls to feature the work of different artists, providing a fresh canvas of ideas and perspectives. Their products and services are a testament to their commitment to celebrating culture and encouraging self-expression, drawing inspiration from 90s nostalgia while embracing diversity.
The museum’s new exhibition, “Smile Land,” featuring renowned artist Phillip Simpson and his iconic smiling figures, will be on display until November 12th. Simpson’s art is synonymous with happiness and positivity in Detroit, aligning perfectly with the Coloring Museum’s celebration of Black togetherness and creativity. Known for his colorful smiley faces on the Broderick Tower, Simpson is a highly sought-after muralist, and his work promotes love and community restoration through art, radiating Black joy.
By joining forces with the Coloring Museum, these two brands are delivering a much-needed service and a creative outlet for residents of all ages, fostering something truly progressive and necessary.
“It’s always about community, collaborating, and bringing people together,” said Simpson. If I can do that with a smile, I’ve done my job. With this collaboration, I’ve seen grandparents coloring – I even saw one mother just zone out for about five minutes. Coloring brings you back to your childhood. I saw parents, kids, and toddlers all coloring at the same time. It was beautiful.”
The partnership between The Coloring Museum and Simpson is yet another inspiring chapter in the ongoing art revolution unfolding within our city. With intricate murals adorning nearly every street corner and commissioned artwork gracing popular establishments, the art industry has been demonstrating the profound impact that creativity can have on a city and its inhabitants. Together, they have cultivated an environment where art, diversity, and self-expression flourish, ushering in a wave of positivity and a new outlook for the region. This initiative prioritizes representation in art, creativity, entrepreneurship, collaboration, and therapy, solidifying their significance and relevance within the community.
For Black children, who often confront a multitude of challenges and systemic obstacles, these creative spaces serve as a vital pathway to self-discovery and empowerment. The Coloring Museum goes beyond the conventional boundaries of art and self-expression, offering a haven where joy knows no limits and positive self-expression is readily available to Black children and their community.
The Coloring Museum and Phillip Simpson’s collaboration is a testament to the healing power of creative expression. By allowing people to color the walls and engage with art on a personal level, they provide a unique form of self-care that promotes happiness and freedom. In a world that often neglects the importance of mental health and art therapy, this partnership shines as a beacon of positivity, demonstrating that art can indeed be a means of healing and self-discovery, especially when it is made accessible to all communities.
The Coloring Museum provides a diverse array of events and activities suitable for all ages, both during the day and in the evening. With a commitment to becoming an integral part of the community, the museum is dedicated to offering special events and creating more opportunities for the community to interact with its offerings. Conveniently situated at 19120 Grand River Ave, the museum warmly welcomes visitors from Thursday to Sunday.
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