DIA Commissions Horse-Themed Mural by Johnny Fletcher in Michigan Park
A new mural has been revealed by the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) at Hess-Hathaway Park in Waterford Township, Michigan, showcasing a horse named Champagne. Titled "Champagne's Chateau," this artwork was crafted by Flint artist Johnny Fletcher and celebrated on Saturday, August 22, with a ribbon-cutting event and an opportunity to meet Champagne. This mural is part of the DIA's Partners in Public Art Program (PIPA), which plans to launch eight murals throughout the Detroit metro area this year. The mural wraps around two sides of the barn, illustrating Champagne in a sunflower field beneath a vibrant sunset, alongside scenes of a billy goat, ducks, chickens, a windmill, and a red barn. Hess-Hathaway Park spans 165 acres and features trails and a farm with various animals. The mural reflects medieval icon painting traditions, portraying Champagne as a monumental figure.
Key facts
- The mural is titled "Champagne's Chateau" and features a horse named Champagne.
- The mural was painted by Flint-based artist Johnny Fletcher.
- It is installed on two exterior walls of a maintenance barn in Hess-Hathaway Park, Waterford Township, Michigan.
- The work was commemorated on Saturday, August 22, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and meet-and-greet.
- It is one of eight murals in the DIA's Partners in Public Art Program (PIPA) debuting this year.
- Hess-Hathaway Park is a 165-acre community park with trails and an animal exhibit farm.
- The mural depicts Champagne in a field of sunflowers under a psychedelic sunset, with farm animals and structures.
- The mural is inspired by medieval icon painting traditions.
- The DIA commissioned the mural as part of its public art initiative.
Entities
Artists
- Johnny Fletcher
Institutions
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Partners in Public Art Program
Locations
- Waterford Township
- Michigan
- Hess-Hathaway Park
- Detroit