Arts & Entertainment

East Lansing aims for greeting card mural by summer

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East Lansing may become the latest in a string of cities to commission the creation of a mural designed to attract tourists if a proposal from the Arts Commission is approved. The mural, which would be part of the national Greetings Tour, would feature a postcard-like design using classic lettering, bright colors and depictions of the city’s icons. So far, 41 Greetings Tour murals have been installed in 20 states. Wendy Longpre, assistant director of the East Lansing Parks, Recreation and Arts Department, said the murals have a following of their own and could increase traffic to the city. “Once you found one of these murals you kind of look for them, then, as you’re traveling,” Longpre said.

Business & Economy

Authors “Canvas Detroit” for art’s impact on the urban environment

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By BECKY McKENDRY
Capital News Service

LANSING — In “Canvas Detroit,” a new book from Wayne State University Press, Nichole Christian and Julie Pincus profile the Motor City’s brightest and most diverse up-and-coming street artists. From murals on boulevards to grass sculptures, their work can actively improve the urban environment and shine a light on previously ignored and abandoned cityscapes, the authors say. Detroit is a city that needs “problem solving,” Christian says, and art won’t solve it all. But the city is fostering a wickedly creative atmosphere that is ripe for revitalization. In a recent interview, Christian explained the importance of street art and how it can revitalize a city.