MURALS IN THE MARKET

Murals in the Market was an initiative started by 1x Run in Detroit, transforming a neighborhood historically known for its sprawling flea and produce markets into a hub for large-scale public art. The surrounding buildings, once integral to the marketplace, became canvases for an evolving collection of murals. With their headquarters set up in the heart of it, 1x Run brought in different muralists each year to contribute to the city’s creative landscape.

In 2016, I had a mural location lined up, but as soon as I landed, it fell through. Then, for Murals in the Market, I ended up right outside 1x Run’s HQ. At the last minute, the building owner gave the green light—on one condition: I only had two nights to paint it since it was a parking lot for workers. No time to hesitate. The team at Murals in the Market hit me up, and it was go time. I laid out 18 gallons of paint—18 different colors—and went to work, painting through the night and finishing ahead of schedule.

With a week left in Detroit, I took the time to soak in the city—rolling around, meeting people, and getting to know the culture. Then I spotted another wall. I pitched it, got permission, projected the concept up, and knocked it out in a day. Might’ve even hit a third, smaller wall, just vibing in the daylight.

Detroit in 2016? Perfect. Music was on point, the food was fire, and the city’s energy was unmatched.