Portrait Project

Renovation of the long abandoned "Mack" building, located at 110 Jackson Street, in downtown Chelsea is about to begin. Mack Building LLC recently purchased the building from the City of Chelsea and plans to renovate the space over the next 18 months for mixed commercial / residential use. Mack Building LLC worked with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, DDA and the City of Chelsea to secure a matching federal grant for the project. Mack Building LLC owner, Joe Ziolkowski and his wife Abby Hurst, want to do something creative and community oriented to kick off the construction project. The building is adjacent to the Sylvan Building, home of the WISD Young Adult Learners, hence a partnership was born and a community art project envisioned.  

A group of local artists and educators have collaborated to create a unique community project that merges art, diversity, and inclusivity. Inspired by the #WhyYouMatter Campaign at the Chelsea High School, the project is designed to celebrate the Chelsea Community in its many perspectives, experiences and abilities.  The unique talents, attributes and contributions of students and young adults will be highlighted.  

The project pairs students from the Young Adult Program and students of Independence Hall at Chelsea High School with Artist mentors to paint 50 abstract self portraits. The portraits will be painted on a 2'x3' canvas, comprised of a weather resistent board which will be displayed on the construction site beginning in early June for the duration of summer.  Each participating artist and student will be exepected to work together to create their respective self-portraits.

Each portrait costs $50 to prep, paint and hang. We are seeking financial assistance for this mosaic of portraits representing a colorful celebration of our unique community.  We would like to have the project completed by May 26.  

Your support is most appreciated by the young artists and their mentors! 

Thank you!!