DIA Brings Art To Groups Through Behind The Seen

METRO DETROIT, MI — The Detroit Institute of Arts is not just a destination, but a way to connect Metro Detroiters to art in their own communities. The DIA brings unique art, culture and history to communities and senior centers through a program called "Behind the Seen." It's presented by trained DIA teaching volunteers and brings the same level of insight and engagement about the DIA's collection from the museum to groups throughout Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties, organizers explained.

Behind the Seen talks cover a variety of topics including Diego River and the Detroit Industry murals, women artists in the DIA’s collection and African American artists.

“It was inspiring to see participants so excited and interactive throughout the presentation,” said Kristen Wellman, an adult librarian at Wayne Public Library. “The DIA’s community outreach programs connect so many people to art and culture they’ve never experienced before.”

Behind the Seen presentations are provided at adult civic and social groups, libraries, senior centers and other community-accessible locations throughout metro Detroit.

“We want everyone to have a chance to experience the DIA’s world renowned collection,” said Salvador Salort-Pons, DIA director. “Behind the Seen allows us to better serve the metro Detroit community and provide access to art and culture not found in books, on TV or the internet.”

The program is especially popular among senior groups, as it provides the museum experience without having to travel.

“Behind the Seen was an amazing experience for our residents, many of whom don’t venture outside the building very often due to visual impairments,” saidKelly Riggi, the life enrichment director at American House East in Roseville. “The presentation was very informative, and our residents loved that they were able to experience the DIA without leaving home.”

Many other groups also enjoy the flexibility the program offers.

“For many people, between work and family it can be difficult to find time to make a trip to the museum,” said Wellman. “Behind the Seen gives participants the museum experience without taking too much time out of their busy schedules.”

To schedule a Behind the Seen visit for your group, contact Cynthia Blackburn at the DIA at 313-833-1510 or cblackburn@dia.org.