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In a noteworthy display of creativity and skill, Mila Lynn, Redd, and Torrence Jayy were honored as the three winning artists in the Art on Canvas program, held in Detroit during the National Black Footwear Forum (BFF) event. This collaboration, supported by Pensole Lewis College (PLC) and The Auto Club Group (ACG), was created to elevate artists’ profiles through public exhibitions and prominent displays. What better way to showcase their art than on AAA-ACG billboards throughout the city of Detroit!

A Platform for Artistic Expression

The event featured twenty talented artists, each given just one hour to create their masterpieces before a live audience. After thorough evaluation based on aesthetics, depth, theme, and storytelling, the judges selected Mila, Redd, and Jayy as finalists. This initiative celebrates their artistic visions and provides a unique opportunity for these creators to share their work with a broader audience.

Mila Lynn

Mila’s artwork is a vibrant celebration of Black culture, showcasing the richness and beauty derived from community and shared experiences. She describes her piece as a reflection of various aspects of culture, emphasizing, “Our beauty and richness are derived from moments shared at home among loved ones.” Recently returning to painting after having a baby, Mila expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Being featured on a billboard is one more opportunity to spread inspiration to my community, so I am grateful and excited.”

Redd

Redd, a Black queer surrealist artist, uses his work to explore the intersection of identity and emotion, particularly through his striking use of red. He aims to challenge perceptions of reality, creating dynamic emotional landscapes that reflect struggle and resilience. His art serves as a powerful connection to Detroit’s spirit, embodying the city’s legacy of resistance and creativity. Redd’s approach invites viewers to confront their perceptions of identity and engage in meaningful conversations about freedom and self-expression.

Torrence Jayy

Torrence Jayy’s poignant illustration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., honors the civil rights leader’s legacy through his artistry. His piece, surrounded by roses, symbolizes strength, unity, and love, reflecting King’s vision of a just and equal world. He highlights the importance of education and empowerment, noting that his work aims to celebrate King’s enduring message of peace and hope. He shared, “Having my work displayed on a billboard is an honor, especially when it’s highlighting such an important figure.”

Billboard Recognition

The partnership between PLC, AAA-ACG, and BFF ensures that the works of these artists will reach millions, as their pieces are prominently displayed on billboards at strategic locations throughout Detroit. This exposure not only showcases their talents but also emphasizes the significance of celebrating Black culture and the contributions of underrepresented voices in the arts.

Kenneth Mathies, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer for AAA – The Auto Club Group, stated, “Education is the groundwork of progress, and when rooted in purpose, excellence, and determination, it becomes the power that shapes generations.” This sentiment aligns with the goals of the program, which seeks to inspire and empower young artists from diverse backgrounds.

Inspiring Future Generations

The MARKT’D program exemplifies the transformative power of art as a medium for storytelling and cultural expression. The recognition of Mila Lynn, Redd, and Torrence Jayy highlights their exceptional talents and underscores the need for diverse voices in the creative industry. While their work is showcased on AAA – The Auto Club Group billboards, they inspire countless others to embrace their creativity and pursue their dreams. Through initiatives like this, organizations such as Pensole Lewis College, AAA – The Auto Club Group, the National Black Footwear Forum, and MARKT’D continue to foster a vibrant artistic community that uplifts and empowers future generations.

 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of PCPR Communications