Paint the Park

Dowtown Allen Park has undergone a stunning transformation thanks to a bold and inspiring public art initiative known as Paint the Park. Spearheaded by the Allen Park Downtown Development Authority (DDA) in collaboration with The Mural People, this project has turned blank walls into vibrant canvases, creating a walkable outdoor gallery that celebrates creativity, culture and community pride.

Launched in August, the Paint the Park program was designed to energize the downtown district, attract foot traffic and foster a deeper connection between residents and their city. The initiative features eight large-scale murals painted by a diverse group of artists, each telling a unique story about Allen Park’s identity, history and spirit.


A Vision Comes to Life

The idea began with a simple question: “How can we make downtown Allen Park more engaging and welcoming?” The answer came in the form of public art – a medium that not only beautifies but also builds bridges between people and places.

At the heart of Paint the Park is The Mural People, founded by Detroit artist Michelle Tanguay. Known for her bold, contemporary style, Tanguay has long believed in the power of art to reshape communities. The Mural People was created with a mission to connect talented artists with cities and organizations eager to reimagine their public spaces.

Tanguay and her artists have worked on projects throughout Michigan and beyond, turning overlooked walls into landmarks. Their approach is collaborative: they listen to the stories of the community, identify themes that resonate and then match those ideas with artists whose styles can bring them to life. This ensures that each mural feels authentic, rooted in place and reflective of the people who live there.

For Allen Park, The Mural People curated a diverse roster of artists – each bringing a unique perspective. Some focused-on history, others on local heroes and others on abstract interpretations of community spirit. Together, they created a visual dialogue that celebrates the city.

“Public art has the power to change how people feel about their environment,” Tanguay said. “With Paint the Park, we’re not just painting walls – we’re painting possibilities. Allen Park has embraced this project with open arms, and it’s been incredible to see how art can unite a community.”


Murals That Tell a Story

Each mural was thoughtfully curated to reflect the unique character, charm and history of Allen Park. The initiative celebrates not only the city’s visual landscape but also its people, stories and spirit. From whimsical to bold historical tributes, the artwork spans a rich range of themes that resonate deeply with both longtime residents and first-time visitors.

One mural, painted by Flint-based artist Kevin Burdick, features a colorful tribute to a local community member, former Detroit Lions fullback Cory Schlesinger, who played for the team from 1995 to 2006 and is now a teacher at Allen Park High School. The mural is a tribute to Schlesinger’s legacy both on and off the field – celebrating his NFL career and his continued dedication to the Allen Park community as an educator.

Another mural, crafted by artist Beau Stanton, draws inspiration from Allen Park’s industrial roots. His design reimagines the iconic Henry Ford railway arches, with modern textures and patterns. The result is a striking visual narrative that honors the city’s manufacturing legacy while embracing its evolution. Stanton’s mural serves as a bridge between past and present, reminding viewers of the ingenuity and hard work that built the foundation of the community.

Together, these murals – and others throughout the downtown district – form a tapestry of Allen Park’s identity. They transform ordinary walls into storytelling surfaces, each one offering a glimpse into the city’s soul. Whether it’s a playful nod to local culture or a reverent homage to history, every mural invites engagement, sparks conversation and fosters a deeper sense of pride in place.


More Than Just Paint

While the visual appeal of Paint the Park is undeniable, its deeper value lies in its ability to foster connection. The project has brought together artists, city officials, business owners and residents in a shared mission to celebrate Allen Park.

What began as a creative initiative quickly grew into a community wide collaboration, where conversations sparked on sidewalks and neighbors paused to watch the murals take shape. Local businesses have embraced the murals as part of their identity, proudly displaying the artwork that now surrounds their storefronts.

The murals have also served as a platform for education and dialogue. During the painting process, artists interacted with passersby, explaining their techniques and the stories behind their work.

“This is what public art is all about,” Tanguay said. “It’s not just about the final product – it’s about the process, the people and the conversations that happen along the way.”


Why Public Art Matters

Public art is more than decoration – it’s a catalyst for transformation. Cities across the country have discovered that murals, sculptures and installations can spark economic growth, strengthen community identity and even improve mental well being. When residents see their stories reflected on the walls of their own neighborhoods, it fosters a sense of belonging and pride.

Visitors, meanwhile, are drawn to the vibrancy and creativity, often lingering longer in districts that feel alive with color and culture.

Studies have shown that public art can increase foot traffic, encourage tourism and support local businesses by making downtown areas more inviting. A mural becomes a destination, a backdrop for photos and a conversation starter. In Allen Park, Paint the Park has already demonstrated this effect – families stroll downtown to admire the artwork, friends meet up to explore the murals together and businesses benefit from the increased visibility.

Public art also has the unique ability to break down barriers. It’s accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background or income. Unlike galleries or museums that may feel intimidating or exclusive, murals are open air exhibits that invite participation. They transform sidewalks into cultural corridors, reminding us that art belongs to the people.


Building Connection Through Creativity

Paint the Park is a reminder that art is not a luxury – it’s a necessity for thriving communities. Murals can inspire hope, spark joy and even heal. They encourage residents to see their city in a new light, to take pride in its evolution and to imagine what’s possible. By weaving art into the fabric of everyday life, Allen Park has shown that connection is not just about proximity, but about shared experiences.

Paint the Park demonstrates how a city can use creativity to strengthen bonds, celebrate diversity and build a brighter, more welcoming future.

As Allen Park continues to embrace public art, the city is positioning itself as a destination for creativity and culture. The success of Paint the Park demonstrates that when art is woven into the fabric of everyday life, it doesn’t just beautify – it transforms.

With The Mural People and the DDA leading the way, Allen Park has proven that a splash of paint can do more than brighten a wall – it can brighten an entire community.


Looking Ahead

“We at the DDA are pleased and excited with the amazing positive responses to our downtown Paint the Park murals project,” said Chairman Fred Frank. “With over one million views on social media, this is the DDA's most popular program to date!”

This project has already made a lasting impression on the community and beyond. With the success of the public art initiative, the DDA is already exploring ways to expand Paint the Park in the coming years. “We see this as the beginning of a long-term commitment to public art in Allen Park,” said Allen Park DDA Director Benjamin Hughes. “Our goal is to keep building on this momentum and continue making our large downtown district a place where people feel inspired and connected.”

Chairman Frank expressed his gratitude: “Thanks and appreciation to The Mural People (Michelle Tanguay) and the artists they brought to Allen Park, the DDA board and staff and the participating businesses.”

As Paint the Park continues to grow, one thing is clear: Allen Park has found a powerful way to express its heart and soul. Through color, creativity and collaboration, the city has painted a brighter future – one wall at a time.


Learn More

To explore the murals, meet the artists and dive deeper into the Paint the Park story, visit paintthepark.com. For updates on future projects, events, and all things happening in downtown Allen Park, check out allenparkdowntown.org and follow the Downtown Development Authority on Facebook at @allenparkdda.