Murals in the Market Artists Draw Inspiration From Fall Fashion Color Trends

Metallics and bold primary colors stun this season

When public art festival Murals in the Market returns for its fifth year Sept. 14, nearly 30 local and international artists will showcase their work throughout Detroit’s Eastern Market. Here, four participating artists draw inspiration from this season’s fashion trends for an artful take on a fall color trend report.

murals in the market
Halogen Sweater, $49, nordstrom.com; Rachel Zoe Venessa Maxi Skirt, $75, and Jimmy Choo Blue Suede Pump, $450, at Rotate Boutique, rotateboutique.com; Socks, stylist’s own.

Art by Jake Dwyer

What Pantone is calling Galaxy Blue takes good-old navy to the next level. Much like its relative cobalt and royal blue shades, Galaxy is a bold hue similar to the colors lettering artist Jake Dwyer, 32, says inspire his everyday creative process. β€œIn sign painting, I’ve started to use lots of bold colors, often straight out of the can,” he says. Though not quite as far out as the galaxy, the Detroit-based artist drew inspiration from the East for the lettering featured. β€œThe blue had me thinking about the motifs of classic blue and white ceramics of China, Japan, and Holland.”

murals in the market
Oscar De La Renta Lurex Striped Day Dress, $3,290, neimanmarcus.com; Jewelry, stylist’s own.
murals in the market
Akris Rounded Lapel Wool Short-Jacket, neimanmarcus.com; DKNY Flutter Cap Sleeve Top in True Red, $59, macys.com; Gucci Buckle High-Waisted Skirt, $700, at Rotate Boutique, rotateboutique.com; BCBG Danielle Ankle Strap in Tomato, $169, bcbg.com.

Art by Michael Polakowski

In place of earthy neutrals that have become tantamount to autumnal fashion, metallics and bold primary colors rule this season’s wardrobe for day and night. Often incorporating vibrant tones into his paintings, Detroit-based artist Michael Polakowski, 24, relies on such pigments to create pieces he calls β€œequal parts narrative, decorative, and conceptual.” He adds: β€œColor is the most important part of my work and the part of the process I enjoy the most.”

murals in the market
BCBG Strappy Wide Leg Jumpsuit in Golden Rod, $298, bcbg.com; Aldo Colledara Dark Yellow Earrings, $12, and Crelacien Light Yellow Ring, $10, aldoshoes.com; Sam Edelman Winona Boots, $180, nordstrom.com.
murals in the market
Weekend Max Mara ΒΎ Sleeve Wool Coat, $750, macys.com; Sandro Green Dress, $150, at Rotate Boutique, rotateboutique.com; Jewelry, stylist’s own.

Art by Nick Pizana

Jewel tones and shades of yellow so energetic they’re almost solar-powered, offer otherworldly vibes artist Nick Pizana understands intimately. The 28-year-old Hamtramck painter and comic artist looks to fantasy worlds to create some of his best work. β€œI’m less interested in creating realistic portrayals of reality,” he says. β€œI’m more into using color to make images that are imaginary and exaggerated.” At the idea of joining the roster of artists participating in this year’s Murals in the Market event, Pizana says he’s β€œpretty hyped.” β€œI used to go to Eastern Market a lot as a kid and vividly remember being awestruck by the paintings on the sheds. To have my own art there now is surreal.”

murals in the market
Balmain Classic 6 Button Blazer, $2,295, neimanmarcus.com; Ted Baker Zettah Culotte, $229, tedbaker.com.
murals in the market
Akris Castro Jacket, $3,990, and Michael Kors Jewel Buttons Long Sleeve Classic Stretch-Poplin Shirt, $1,195, neimanmarcus.com; Vince Camuto Vented Cuff Skinny Pant, $79, macys.com; Stuart Weitzman Niki 60 Cream Nappa Boot, $595, stuartweitzman.com.

Art by Joey Salamon

Structured suiting and tailored trousers evoke an added dose of strength and confidence in the season’s boldest blues and brightest tangerines. A similar juxtaposition of structure and vibrancy is just what artist Joey Salamon, 31, is best known for. Based in Oak Park, Salamon’s linear, rainbow-colored murals can be seen from downtown Detroit to Grand Rapids and beyond. β€œI’m always attracted to vibrant and saturated colors because they are fun and evoke happiness,” he says. β€œBright colors absolutely contribute to the statement I strive to make in my artwork.”

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