Detroit’s art scene has experienced a vibrant resurgence in recent years, thanks to flagship galleries like Louis Buhl & Co. and Library Street Collective (LSC). Co-founders Anthony and JJ Curis have been instrumental in this revival, working closely with the local community to launch initiatives such as a new skatepark, headquarters, and the cultural arts campus Shepherd. Now, they are announcing another major addition: LANTERN, a multi-purpose arts hub in Detroit’s Little Village.
OMA Designs LANTERN: A New Arts Center for Detroit’s East Village
Designed by New York-based architectural firm OMA, LANTERN will transform a 22,300-square-foot former commercial bakery into a dynamic arts center. The space will include 5,300 square feet of affordable artist studios, 4,000 square feet of creative retail, an art gallery, and an expansive outdoor courtyard with an open-air lobby. This hub will serve as the headquarters for non-profits Signal-Return and Progressive Arts Studio Collective (PASC).
LANTERN’s Inclusive Mission: Supporting Detroit’s Arts Community
Anthony Curis emphasizes the inclusive mission of LANTERN, stating, “The core of our mission in East Village is focused on creating an inclusive community centered around the arts. PASC and Signal-Return are two highly impactful nonprofits providing vital support and inspiration to the local arts community. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the neighborhood.” PASC, part of STEP (Services to Enhance Potential), has supported over 1,300 artists with disabilities through various programs, workshops, and exhibitions. Signal-Return aims to teach and preserve the art of letterpress in Detroit.
Expansion of Programming and Opportunities at Signal-Return in LANTERN
Lynne Avadenka, Director of Signal-Return, highlights the expansion of their mission in this new space: “As we work with the Curises to establish our presence in this growing cultural district, we will expand our programmatic offerings by increasing the hours of Open Studio access, the number of artists working in the studio, and the exposure and market for the artists’ work.”
Enhancing Community Through Arts: OMA’s Vision for LANTERN
OMA partner Jason Long adds, “PASC and Signal-Return are both extraordinary organizations with a multi-faceted approach to community building through the arts. To support and enhance their ambitions, we are both turning the building in on itself and opening it out toward the neighborhood—bringing a new density of activity and creative life to East Village.”
While LANTERN is still in development, Shepherd will open to the public on Saturday, May 18, with a solo exhibition by the late American artist Charles McGee.
