The Metro: Detroit’s Tyree Guyton talks life, legacy and 40 years of the Heidelberg project

By: Tia Graham

2 February 2026 at 22:01

Since 1986, The McDougall-Hunt Neighborhood on Detroit’s east side has been home to the Heidelberg Project, an environmental art installation that pushes the boundaries of what outdoor art could be and how it can improve a community. It was created by life-long Detroiter, painter, and visionary place-maker Tyree Guyton.

Through trials and tribulations, the Heidelberg Project celebrates 40 years this year. The installation preserves community history while reimaging the neighborhood where three generations of Guyton’s family lived.

Guyton, now 70, is this year’s Kresge Eminent Artist. He’s being honored for his life’s work improving community through the arts.

Guyton and the former manager of The Heidelberg Project Jeanne Whitefield joined The Metro. Whitefield is also Guyton’s wife of 25 years. Both spoke about life, legacy and the future of Detroit Heidelberg Project.

The Heidelberg Project - "Penny Car" — The Heidelberg Project artwork entitled “Penny Car.” Photo credit: David Yarnall, Wikipedia

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