New Sculpture at Alger Highlights Detroit Grand Prix

A Indy Car sculpture at the Alger Theater. Image courtesy of Jim West

At first glance, the sculpture installed in the storefront next to the Alger Theater might appear to be just a colorful abstract design. But look closer, and you’ll see it’s actually a sports car, painted by students from our neighborhood high school, East English Village Prep Academy at Finney.

The sculpture was created as part of a collaborative art program sponsored by PPG Industries, and the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), to highlight the return of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix Presented By Lear to downtown Detroit on June 2-4.

Each of nine high schools in Detroit was provided with a 1/16th scale model Indy Car mounted on a base. Using paint and art materials supplied by long-time Grand Prix partner PPG Industries, the students created their own designs on the car. Each group of students was asked to come up with a design representing their school, community, the Grand Prix, or the city of Detroit. Students at EEVPA at Finney chose to decorate their Indy Car with a map of District 4 and surrounding communities.

All seven Detroit Council districts will house at least one car sculpture in local businesses, recreation centers, art galleries, and community gathering spot. The cars will be available for purchase in an online auction this May, with proceeds going to the City of Detroit Office of Arts, Culture, and Entrepreneurship.

Tickets are on sale now for the 2023 Chevrolet Grand Prix presented by Lear, hosted on the new 1.7-mile street circuit in Downtown Detroit, June 2- 4. Ticket sales are ahead of pace from previous years and fans are encouraged to purchase their seats and passes as soon as possible. To purchase tickets and to learn more about the 2023 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear, please visit www.DetroitGP.com.