PHOTOS: BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival leaves its mark on Detroit

Detroit’s streets came alive earlier this month as the BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival returned for its third edition, transforming the city with 10 new large-scale murals. From Sept. 4–13, artists from Detroit and across the country turned blank walls into vibrant canvases, while the festival also hosted installations at Pensole Lewis College in support of the Black Footwear Forum.

The celebration was about more than art; it was a community-wide experience. Festival-goers took part in free public talks at Pensole Lewis College, including conversations on the future of art, women muralists, and the business of creativity. The event wrapped with a block party at Spirit Plaza, where live music, food trucks, and local vendors brought Detroiters together to meet the artists and celebrate the city’s creative spirit.

Founded by muralists Sydney G. James, Thomas “Detour” Evans, and Max Sansing, BLKOUT Walls has grown into a biannual tradition that blends equity, access, and artistry. With support from sponsors like City Walls Detroit, The Knight Foundation, and The Kresge Foundation, this year’s festival once again highlighted Detroit as one of the most creative cities in the world.

We sent photographer David Lewinski to capture the murals, the moments, and the community spirit that defined BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival.