darcel
deneau

After the tragic loss of my father and the painful experience my mother endured, I found myself at a crossroads. This heartbreaking chapter forced me to confront the fragility of life and ignited a fierce desire to leave a meaningful legacy. I asked myself: who would I be remembered as? This reflection led me to embrace my passion for art more fully.

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Though I had always considered myself an artist, I had never truly dedicated myself to developing my artistic ability. With two school-age children, I made the bold decision to enroll as a full-time student at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. The city, rich with history and culture, became my muse.

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For many years, my medium was oil paint and several years later I transitioned to using glass and found objects. Although I was still creating images of Detroit, I found a powerful metaphor in my artistic process using glass. By assembling tiny pieces of broken glass and reassembling them was much like the city itself being pieced back together. My process seemed to mirror the resilience and growth of Detroit, showcasing how beauty can emerge from fragments.

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For most of my life many around me didn’t share my love for Detroit. The city was often portrayed negatively, a narrative that fueled my determination to highlight its beauty and resilience.

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Through my art, I aim to challenge misconceptions and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Detroit. I want to tell my background story of how and why I create the art that I make. Each piece is a tribute to the city and a reflection of my journey. I hope my work inspires others to see the hidden gems in their surroundings and reminds them of the power of art to transform perspectives.