Buffington summary

Darrin Gailey

2/7/14

 Chen

4.1 Melanie L. Buffington; Art to Bring About Change

Summary:

This article is about public art and how it can raise awareness for social issues and creating a sense of unity within a community. This article focuses a lot on Tyree Guyton. He has started to create public artworks that raise awareness through nonprofit organizations. His art encourages people to talk about issues.

Main Points:

- Guyton’s history as an African American artist. He lives and works in Detroit.

-Public Art Work: Art that is displayed in public spaces for the publics view.

-Heidelberg Project: A large public artwork built on the vacant lots and houses of Heidelberg Street.

-Destruction: The destruction of the public art works by the city of Detroit. Some people do not see it as art or important, others do.

Example:

An example that the article talks about, involved The Dotty Wotty House. It is a new artwork, which was created after the demolition by the city. This work involved inspiration two personal aspects of Guyton’s life. These two inspirations make the public work both personal and public.  It adds more meaning to the work.

Response:

This article provides a perfect example of public artwork. I feel that the Heidelberg Project is a great way to get students to think about how they can positively change their communities and the world. Reading article about the Heidelberg Project are always interesting for me.