The Heidelberg Project

approx. 3600 Heidelberg St.

http://www.heidelberg.org/

The Heidelberg Project is definitely one of my favorite "stumble-upon" places in Detroit. Every time I go, I feel like I'm stuck wandering around the neighboring area for just a bit too long and then bam! I find that I'm right in the middle of it. 

The Heidelberg Project was started in 1986 (Happy 25th Birthday!) by Tyree Guyton. Named the Heidelberg Project after the street it began on, Tyree began the project as a way to draw attention to his street that people were scared to walk on, even in the daylight. Tyree believed that by turning the street into a kind of art exhibit, some positive attention could be brought to the street thus decreasing the amount crime.

The project is ever expanding and new installments continuously being added. Heidelberg is a bit of a sensory overload. There is so much to look at and you have to be willing to look around a bit to see all that there is. Everything from the Time is Money house (a house covered in change) to the Dotty Wotty house (the house completely covered in polka dots) is something new and makes you stop and stare. 

Tyree is cool guy too. Often times you can catch him around the project, fixing things up or giving a tour. He's very humble and truly wants to see what Detroit can become. Do yourself a favor and check out the Heidelberg. 

PEACE.LOVE.DETROIT.

-Amy