04.01 – 05.10.2024
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
FINE ART GALLERY
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
FINE ART GALLERY
A discussion on AI, AI’s application in art, and student
perspectives while working on the Blacktopia: Detroit 3000
exhibit.
Open to all, light refreshments will be provided.
Colin Frasier, design student (Host)
Carrie Weis, gallery director
Dr. Greg Gogolin, Artificial Intelligence/Information Security & Intelligence
Matthew Kelley, design student
Amber Hadley, design student
Welcome to “Blacktopia,” an immersive artistic journey into a hauntingly authentic Black utopia set in the distant year 3000. Initially conceived by American figurative artist Tylonn J. Sawyer as an Instagram series, utilizing the generative AI program, Midjourney, this exhibition pushes the boundaries of traditional image production. Curated in collaboration with the esteemed FSU Fine Art Gallery, it represents a pioneering endeavor in the realm of artistic innovation. Through a series of meticulously crafted digital compositions, Sawyer explores novel modalities of image–making to confront the complexities of contemporary society while envisioning radiant potential futures.
Located in the futuristic landscape of Detroit, Michigan, Sawyer’s captivating artworks depict everyday life in a society propelled by advancements in technology and societal norms exclusively dedicated to enhancing the well-being of all citizens. Anchored in real-life locations, historical events, and cultural landmarks of Detroit, Sawyer envisions a future where inclusivity and progress reign supreme. True to its title, “Blacktopia” places Blackness at its core, celebrating diversity within this utopian realm. The artworks portray people of color as leaders of this enlightened society, their presence commanding admiration and reverence. From vibrant LGBTQ+ pride festivals to majestic military parades symbolizing national unity, the exhibition offers a vibrant mosaic of cultures and identities flourishing in this envisioned future.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to contemplate the profound impact of technology on society, fostering introspection on how we can redirect our focus from personal gain towards utilizing evolving technologies to construct a fairer and more flourishing society for all. “Blacktopia” transcends mere artistry; it serves as a catalyst for thought, beckoning viewers on a transformative journey toward envisioning and realizing a better world.
Tylonn J. Sawyer is an American multidisciplinary, artist, educator, and curator. Trained in the figurative artsbased practices, Sawyer’s work juxtaposes themes of identity — both individual and collective — with investigations of race and history in popular culture.
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Sawyer has been included in solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States and abroad including the Venice Biennale, Italy; Texas A & M University, Texas; The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, The Detroit Institute of Art, Michigan; Heron Arts, San Francisco; Kravets/Wehby Gallery, Rush Arts & The New York Academy of Art, New York, amongst others.
Sawyer holds an MFA in painting from the New York Academy of Art: Graduate School of Figurative Art program and a Bachelor of BFA (drawing & painting) from Eastern Michigan University. Sawyer currently lives and works in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Reigning Supreme Ruler of the Empire of Detroit, “Asher Ty Cloud VI” 2999 – Present. As the successor of the Empire's former Supreme Ruler “Breanna Star III aka Bree the Great” 2932 – 2999 Asher has big shoes to fill and a great responsibility to lead his people into a new and glorious age of enlightenment.
Club Liminal is an underground punk rock club/concert venue that uses (PQA)Portable Quantum Accelerator tech to create pocket dimensions in an enclosed space. The owners of the Club Liminal find unoccupied buildings and using their PQA tech, are able to create a fully functioning club in a matter of minutes. Should the authorities be called for noise or trespassing, the same tech can be used to close up shop immediately, leaving no trace that a club was ever present.
For the 11th time in its history, “The Detroit Opera House” (aka Maria Ewing Theater) opens its doors to a brand new theater, at its original 1869 location in Kennedy Square (Woodward near Campus Martius). Although used exclusively for musical and theatrical performances the new DOH most pantheonic design + nano tech build technology to all the space accommodate any set design via programmable matter and photonic lights.
Hair Wars started in the nightclubs of Detroit in 1985 as an informal stage show for local hair stylists to display their hair creations and show off their skills. Legendary DJ David Humphries, a.k.a. "Hump The Grinder," conceptualized “Hair Wars” as one of his 'gimmick parties' to keep things interesting in the clubs. What began as a 4-week hair promotion, has lasted 1015 years!
Teens these days adorn themselves with anti surveillance tech. When activated, these stylish devices distort facial recognition prompts and records a digital tag of the device attempting to capture their image
Hotter Than July started in the year 1996 to celebrate Detroit’s Black LGBTQ+ community. As of this story, it holds the title as the worlds oldest Black LGBTQ Pride running for 1,004 years, with over 100,000 attendees for the week long festival. Hosted by LGBT Detroit, this week long multi-event festival partners with community leaders and supporters by offering various safe spaces for educating and showcasing the culture.
The Annual Chinese Red Festival at Hart Plaza in Detroit, Michigan, is a vibrant celebration showcasing Chinese culture, traditions, and heritage. The festival features a variety of activities and performances for all children to enjoy.
Let’s flash back to warmer times to this past summer during the Movement Electronic Music Festival! Each year during Memorial Day weekend thousands of citizens from around the globe flock to Detroit, (A sacred land and birthplace of techno music).
Highland Park, Michigan est. 1889 has had its fair share of ups and downs throughout its tumultuous history. Yet here, we focus on the “ups” for this profile on the Empire of Detroit’s most revered annex.
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting (sawm), prayer, reflection, and community. As The Empire of Detroit is home to the largest population of Muslims living in the Sovereign States of America (S.S.A), we celebrate our brothers and sisters during this holy time.
Citizens celebrate the end of “The Sovereign Wars” when on December, 19, 2956, The Republic of Grosse Pointe signed an indefinite armistice, better known as “The Treaty of Belle Isle”, surrendering most of it’s land bordering The Empire of Detroit and thus ending this brutal 16 year conflict.
Students from the Freddie Diaz Academy of Art show off their skills, creating a whole new cohort of murals during the world’s longest running mural festival.