Man in the City Kicks-Off Anniversary with Axalta Partnership

The thought provoking and highly-recognizable public art exhibit Man in the City is kicking off its 10-year anniversary celebration with a series of partnerships, events and installations. The year-long narrative launches this month with a partnership with the world’s largest coatings manufacturer, Axalta.

This coming together of creativity and manufacturing will be celebrated at Axalta’s North American International Auto Show Charity Preview event, January 18, 2019 at Cobo Hall, Detroit.

Providing support to the Sauvé Art Foundation’s work with local arts education programming was a natural synergy for the company and future design and creative talent for the region. “I am continually impressed by the impact John Sauvé’s Man in the City art programs have made on children in Detroit. We are proud to work with him as he celebrates his 10 year milestone and look forward to supporting his efforts,” said John Wray, OEM Global Marketing Manager, Axalta..
Man in the City’s sculpture installation was the first public art displayed on the Highline in New York City, Subsequently, the elevated park has become the top destination in New York City.

Following the New York Exhibit, Sauvé brought the Man in the City’s sculpture installation to Detroit and has since installed more than 100 sculptures across the skyline of Detroit. Each piece has created place in the City of Detroit and a must look-up opportunity to soak up the architecture of the city.

The Sauvé Art foundation partners with non-profits, schools and youth centers to create unique arts education opportunities that incorporate the Man in the City’s sculpture installation. In addition, the Man in the City truck is a travelling arts truck that provides pop-up art classes, exhibits and programs. Most recently Sauvé has worked with: Center for Success, Neighborhood Service Organization, Cranbrook Schools, Hispanic Youth Center and Boll Family YMCA where he served as Artist in Residence and received the Volunteer of the Year Award.

“Public art and exposure to art is critical to society. To be able to share my work and experience with youth in our region and spark their creative spirit is invaluable,” said Sauvé. “Partnerships such as our relationship with Axalta provide me with the opportunity to reach more students.”

In addition to the NAIAS event, Axalta has housed a series of the Man in the City sculptures in their Detroit offices. The onsite installation has sparked interest and participation from staff and customers to support the Sauvé Art Foundation.

Both Axalta and the Sauvé Art Foundation have planned several partnership event's throughout the year.