Diego Rivera arrived in Detroit to undertake what would become the most defining mural cycle of his career. In just 11 months, he transformed the walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts into the extraordinary Detroit Industry Murals — a fresco series he later described as his “finest work.” Rivera completed this commission during the period he and his wife, Frida Kahlo, were living in the city, marking a significant chapter in both their lives.
How did the DIA secure one of the world’s most celebrated muralists? What made Detroit the setting for Rivera’s boldest artistic statement? And why do these murals continue to resonate as some of the most important public artworks in America?
In this richly illustrated Historical Speaker Series presentation, art historian Wendy Evans brings Rivera’s Detroit story to life — the industry, the artistry, and the lasting impact of a masterpiece created here in our city.
Join us Sunday, March 22nd from 1–2pm.
$5 for non-members, FREE for members.
Tickets: PackardProvingGrounds.org/Mar22-HSS-PPG
Event Venue
The Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Township, MI 48317, United States, Shelby
