visiting: Sweet Juniper

It's not often these days that I feel like going out after work.  I am usually pretty tired and can't seem to do anything but relax when I get home.

Today Erica and I went to the Johanson Charles Gallery in Eastern Market for a presentation given by Jim Griffioen who writes the blog Sweet Juniper.  I enjoy reading the stories that he shares of him and his family and the adventures they have in and around Detroit.

He has gotten to see some of the most amazing examples of urban decay in this area.  I am jealous for a couple of reasons.

1. I don't have the balls to pick up and move down town.
2. He gets to see some amazing things.
3. He rides his bike with his children on it - everywhere!

Aunt Jenny got me hooked onto his writings, which I find funny because she lives on the other side of the state (not for long though - shes moving even further away to Chicago soon).   I did find out that he went to the same college that she went to!

Anyhow, I really enjoyed listening to his take on Urban Decay and seeing his photos and stories of his experieces.  I think the turnout was great.  Although, I think some people misunderstood what it was about and felt that Jim was trying to convey.  He wasn't there to save Detroit, and I think that is what some people thought.  I think he was there to try to get people to see his point of view and maybe see that what we do have left in Detroit is beautiful.

Here is one of Jim's feral houses taken in Detroit, you can order it as a print if you click on it!