Commissioner received a Knight Arts grant in 2020 to pilot a Detroit chapter—our first outside of Miami—and began working with people on the ground to learn more about local artist needs, next generation collectors, and collaborations rooted in community and learning.
In May 2022, we launched Commissioner Detroit at BasBlue on East Ferry Street, unveiling works by inaugural artists Amna Asghar, Judy Bowman and Darryl DeAngelo Terrell at a standing-room-only cocktail reception and panel discussion. Moderated by Commissioner cofounder Dejha Carrington, the artist conversation explored how the audience can better leverage their social capital to advance the careers of artists.
We asked artists to share actions that we can take to support them:
“Advocate for artists in the rooms we’re not in. Often artists are an afterthought; we should be considered from the onset in the projects that impact us.” — Judy Bowman
“Reach out to schedule studio visits. I like sharing my work and process, and invite you all to ask other artists about visits as well. For many of us, our practice is also about the community.” — Amna Asghar
“I need studio space. If anyone has an Airbnb or space that’s more affordable, consider making it a residency or offering it to artists–even if only temporarily.” — Darryl DeAngelo Terrell
Commissioner Detroit’s inaugural artist editions, in benefit of We The People of Detroit, featured three artists who collectively embody the ethos of the city's contemporary art scene. Together they recall the legacy of a place famous for innovation, resilience and experimentation. We hope this initiative is just the beginning of Commissioner Detroit, a program inspiring deeper connection, collaboration, and support between locals and artists who are powering the city’s creative ecosystem.
Learn more about Commissioner Detroit here or email us at hello@commissioner.us.