Detroit is gearing up for an exciting event that combines art, music, and community support. The Michigan Glass Project is thrilled to announce its 9th annual glassblowing and live arts festival, taking place from Friday, June 9 to Sunday, June 11, 2023. The festival kicks off with a documentary on Thursday, June 8, at the esteemed Detroit Institute of Arts, showcasing the inspiring story of a group of dedicated artists who are determined to uplift their struggling city.
The festival will be held at the historic Russell Industrial Center in Detroit, providing a dynamic setting for local and national glassblowing artists, live painters, and an array of talented musicians. Together with the community, they will rally behind the festival’s mission of providing children with artistic outlets. The event’s proceeds will go towards benefiting Art Road Nonprofit, an organization that immerses students from metro Detroit schools in the transformative power of art instruction. This year marks the sixth year that Art Road has been a beneficiary, having received an impressive $475,000 from The Michigan Glass Project thus far.
“All individuals have the opportunity to contribute their unique talents and come together to achieve a greater goal,” says Allison Key, Co-founder and Executive Director of The Michigan Glass Project. “The festival is unlike any other, as hundreds of artists work in unison, driven by the mission to donate as much artwork as possible over three days. It’s remarkable how grassroots involvement through art donations, purchases, and simply attending the event can make a meaningful impact. The significant donation we present to Art Road each year is a testament to the incredible things that can be achieved when people pool their talents and resources.”
Throughout the weekend, glassblowing artists from all across the country, ranging from New York to Los Angeles, will captivate audiences with their live demonstrations. These artists will create unique pieces for a silent auction, which will culminate on Sunday at 6 p.m. In addition to the glass artworks, a large-scale art gallery will showcase donated paintings, photographs, and prints, many of which will be created on-site by live painters. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness the creative process firsthand and place bids on their favorite pieces. To conclude the event, a live auction on stage will feature a selection of the most exceptional artworks produced or donated during the festival. The proceeds from these art sales, auctions, and raffles will all contribute to the fundraising efforts.
The festival welcomes the public, children, and members of the community to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy a variety of cuisines from local food trucks and partake in refreshments from the cash bar. Ticket and bar sales will also contribute to the cause. The event will feature two DJ booths and an outdoor stage showcasing an exciting lineup of local and national music acts, with headliners such as TAUK, Will Sessions, and Bruiser Brigade. Renowned glassblowing artists from around the world will also be returning to participate in this noble endeavor.
As the day’s festivities wind down, the experience will continue with after-parties at some of Detroit’s hottest venues. These after-parties will feature local music and glass art for sale and appreciation, providing a perfect opportunity to extend the celebration.
The Michigan Glass Project’s 9th annual glassblowing and live arts festival promises to be a captivating event that brings together the creative spirit of the community while supporting a worthy cause. With its unique blend of glassblowing demonstrations, live painting, and outstanding musical performances, the festival creates an unforgettable experience for attendees while making a lasting impact on the lives of children through Art Road Nonprofit.
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