DIA Remains One of Detroit's Gems

Refurbished Detroit Institute of Arts a Must-See for Art Lovers

Jan 28, 2009

The historic museum on Woodward Avenue offers a whole new experience for anybody who hasn't visited recently. See how the DIA is still the place you remember, and more.

While all of what's new in Detroit continues to grab headlines - new hotels, new attractions, new mayors - visitors to the city would be wise to remember something old.

The Detroit Institute of Arts remains one of the Motor City's most-prized gems, certainly worthy of a short drive down Woodward from the more-talked-about Foxtown and Entertainment district. And even the DIA, holder of priceless, historic works of art as well as pieces honored only locally, hasn't escaped Detroit's push to renew itself.

Only a year removed from major renovation that forced the museum to close its doors temporarily, the DIA is no longer the place it was to anybody who hasn't been there recently. Rotating exhibits have always helped keep the DIA fresh to frequent visitors, but the recent facelift it received has made it an entirely new destination. Sure, some of the works that became synonymous with the DIA remain - such as Diego Rivera's "Detroit Industry" murals that adorn the main museum's main hall - as well they should, but a new museum layout, ever-changing exhibits and featured displays by prominent artists of all genres help make the DIA a place that never gets old.

Stunning before you set foot inside, the DIA's structure continues to offer a breath-taking respite from the neighboring buildings that have yet to gain the attention of Detroit's continuing redevelopment. Its marble facade, towering pillars and tiled driveway offer an immaculate reminder of that the Detroit that once was. The building itself is as awesome a piece of art as anything inside.

Inside, museum management has done a remarkable job at making the DIA a place geared for both the art aficionado and the general public alike. More than 60,000 pieces make the DIA one of the largest collections of art in the country, and there's something for everyone. Displays are organized by genre, and easy to tour in the building's newly designed, floor plan that cover more than 650,000 square feet, a huge increase over the space previously offered. Displayed throughout the four-story museum include "Africa, Oceania and the Indigenous Americas", "American Art", "The Arts of Asia and the Islamic World", "European Art", "Prints, Drawings and Photographs, "General Motors Center for African American Art" and "The James Pearson Duffy Department of Contemporary Art".

The DIA also offers performing arts shows, has added attractions that cater to younger visitors, and regularly recognizes events on the calendar such as February's celebration of Black History Month.

The Detroit Institute of Arts is located at 5200 Woodward Ave. in Detroit. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for people between the ages of 6 and 17. For more information, call 313-833-7900.

The copyright of the article DIA Remains One of Detroit's Gems in Michigan Travel is owned by Ken Welsch. Permission to republish DIA Remains One of Detroit's Gems in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.