The Charles McGee Community Commons at Marygrove College Dedicated Friday, September 23, 5:30 p.m. ET

DETROIT, Sept. 20, 2016 --

WHAT: Marygrove College has transformed the corner of McNichols and Wyoming into a community gathering space highlighting a sculpture by 92-year-old Detroit artist Charles McGee.  His “Playscape II” sculpture and the space will be officially dedicated.

WHEN: Friday, September 23, 2016, 5:30 p.m. ET

WHERE: The corner of McNichols and Wyoming in Northwest Detroit

BACK STORY: Upon their retirement, Professor Emerita Rose DeSloover, local artist and former art faculty member, and Professor Emerita Jane Hammang-Buhl, former vice president of academic affairs and business faculty member, embarked on this project to strengthen Marygrove and community connections in Northwest Detroit. The “Changing the Vibe at Six Mile and Wyoming” project transforms the corner of McNichols and Wyoming into a community gathering space.

Ninety-two-year old Charles McGee, the first Kresge Eminent Artist, has located his art studio across the street from Marygrove for over 50 years.  His work, “Playscape II,” is the focal point of the community commons. He is expected to attend the dedication.

This area of northwest Detroit is targeted for revitalization as one of Mayor Mike Duggan’s “20-Minute Neighborhoods.” This project is supported by a Public Spaces Community Places grant match from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation through the Patronicity CrowdGranting. It also received support from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Kresge Foundation, and many individual donors.

ABOUT MARYGROVE COLLEGE

Founded by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) in 1905, Marygrove College is an independent liberal arts college and a Catholic institution of higher learning. The College’s commitment to the city of Detroit comprises an institutional mission and vision for developing urban leaders. For nearly 90 years, the main campus has been situated on 53 wooded acres in northwest Detroit at 8425 W. McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48221; www.marygrove.edu.

CONTACT: Renée Ahee, 313-927-1438 or [email protected] for interviews or photo opportunities.