The Detroit Jazz Festival, the world’s largest free jazz festival, takes place this Labor Day weekend, August 30 – September 2. The star-studded lineup includes local, national and international musicians.
This year’s festival coincides with the opening of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University, named in honor of the late jazz activist Gretchen C. Valade. The center is part of the Hilberry Gateway integrated performing arts complex.
Detroit artist Jess Fendo, a 25-year-old student at the College for Creative Studies, has been selected as this year’s poster artist for the Detroit Jazz Festival. Known for her murals, acrylic paintings and graphic designs, Fendo is inspired by human experiences and connections, shaping her artistic vision with a blend of Detroit’s vibrant cultures.
American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson speaks with Chris Collins, president and artistic director of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation, about the festival’s impact on Detroit and its global audience. Then Patrick Lindsey, vice president of government and community affairs at Wayne State University, talks about the Jazz Center’s impact on the university’s music program.
This year’s poster will also be unveiled exclusively in the American Black Journal. Fendo talks about her creative process, the inspiration behind the poster design and her deep love of jazz.
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