Farmington Celebrates Community Art with a Stunning New Mural
Farmington has recently become a vibrant canvas for creativity, thanks to the Detroit Institute of Arts’ Partners in Public Art project. This exciting collaboration has turned the Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion in Riley Park into a visual masterpiece that captures the heart and spirit of the community. Completed by muralist Rick Malt, a talented artist from Wyandotte, this mural brings a splash of color and life to the city.
A Long-Awaited Project
The journey to this artistic achievement began back in 2021 when the Farmington Downtown Development Authority (DDA) expressed interest in participating in the Partners in Public Art project. Finally, in 2024, their patience paid off as they were officially chosen to join the initiative. Kate Knight, the Executive Director of the DDA, shared her excitement about making this project happen sooner than initially planned. “The DIA had 2025 or 2026 in mind,” Knight explained, “but we pitched the idea of getting it done this year to coincide with our big 200th celebration!”
Community Engagement at Its Best
Community involvement was a crucial part of the mural’s creation. Over 140 local residents participated in a public survey aimed at gathering ideas and themes to inspire the artwork. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leaving the artist with plenty of inspiration to draw from. The final theme? “Through Seasons.” This clever concept presents two contrasting seasonal scenes on the gables of the pavilion, with one side bursting with the brightness of summer while the other reflects the warm hues of autumn.
Malt, who completed the mural in just seven days this past October, was thrilled with how the project turned out. “It’s kind of different seasons as you walk through,” he said. “They let me roll with it and create my vision, and I’m super happy with how everything turned out.”
Bringing Art to the Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project, as noted by Ani Garabedian, the manager of community engagement programs for the DIA, was the interaction between the artist and residents. “There’s this real connection with the artist being in their neighborhood—people love watching their mural come to life,” Garabedian said. Malt echoed this sentiment, enjoying the energy and enthusiasm from the locals as he worked on the mural.
A Lasting Legacy
As the mural stands proudly in the heart of Farmington, Knight shared her pride in the project’s outcome. “We’re thrilled,” she said. “This program brings art to places where people live and work every day, and to have this mural in downtown is the perfect fit for our community.”
This mural isn’t just a beautiful addition to the Farmington landscape; it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of the community and a reminder that art can thrive anywhere. The DIA’s Partners in Public Art program aims to make art accessible and relatable, and this initiative is a shining example of that mission.
A Vision for the Future
The mural is set to remain a vital part of Farmington’s public art collection for many years. With an agreement in place to maintain it for at least a decade, residents can look forward to enjoying this colorful contribution as a reminder of their rich culture and history. Knight believes that projects like this are about more than just aesthetics: “These projects demonstrate that world-class art belongs everywhere.”
As Farmington celebrates its bicentennial, the new mural serves as a fitting tribute to a city that values creativity, community, and a shared vision for a bright future. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, don’t miss the chance to see this stunning piece of art that captures the very essence of Farmington.
