Pensole Lewis College, AAA-The Auto Club Group, and the National Black Footwear Forum Join Forces; Elevate Detroit Creatives
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Posted By: Phyllis Caddell on February 24, 2025 Pensole Lewis College (PLC), AAA - The Auto Club Group (ACG), and the National Black Footwear Forum (BFF) have partnered to highlight the three winning artists from the MARKT’D: Art on Canvas program, which took place in Detroit in September 2024 during the BFF event. This collaboration aims to elevate the artists' profiles by publicly showcasing their work and utilizing AAA-ACG billboards and digital media to reach millions. The event featured twenty talented artists, each given one hour to bring their visions to life on blank canvases in front of a live audience. After the hour, four special guest judges evaluated each piece based on aesthetics, depth, theme, and storytelling. Ultimately, three finalists were selected from the original twenty: Mila Lynn, Redd, and Torrence Jayy. The initiative will celebrate these artists by offering them a unique career opportunity to share their artistic visions. They will create original artwork that AAA-ACG will review and prominently display on billboards throughout Detroit. In recognition of Black History Month and the ongoing need for awareness, artists will create pieces celebrating Black culture’s influence on society. They will highlight the importance of access to higher education, which aligns with the missions of PLC, BFF, and MARKT’D, and acknowledge AAA-ACG’s commitment to community advocacy, inspiring others to make a positive difference. Dion Walcott, Founder of MARKT’D and Director of Partnerships at PLC states, “The MARKT’D program at Pensole Lewis Detroit goes beyond the realm of sneakers. This initiative offers artists a platform to express themselves and provides unique vantage points that emotionally move viewers. What better way to shed light on the narrative we are conveying?” The Auto Club Group focuses on membership, insurance, and travel to help individuals navigate life safely. As a responsible corporate citizen, AAA-ACG addresses critical community needs such as education, food security, and financial literacy. “Education is the groundwork of progress, and when rooted in purpose, excellence, and determination, it becomes the power that shapes generations,” said Kenneth Mathies, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer for AAA – The Auto Club Group. About PLC Detroit Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design is a vital resource for career education and professional development in the creative industry. We lead the way in fostering creative vision and progress. At PLC, we focus on improving the industry through innovative educational experiences and creating exceptional products. We prepare and empower a diverse talent pool of creatives to enter the industry, making it better for future generations. For more information, visit www.plcdetroit.com About AAA - The Auto Club Group The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second-largest AAA club in North America, serving over 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG provides roadside assistance, insurance products, banking services, travel offerings, and more. As part of the national AAA federation, which boasts more than 64 million members in the U.S. and Canada, AAA is committed to protecting and advancing the freedom of mobility while improving traffic safety. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit www.AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. About MARTK’D Since MARTK’D inception in 2013, the brand has created programs and partnerships internationally with the mission of providing access and awareness to artists to showcase their talent. What started as a passion for sneakers has grown to become a community for artists from all walks of life to get exposure, build networks, and access career opportunities. Visit, www.martkd.com About The National Black Footwear Forum The Black Footwear Forum (BFF) seeks to enhance access, education, and awareness to increase opportunities for Black professionals to influence, lead, and impact the global footwear industry and consumer culture. The Forum is intentional in its efforts to promote diversity within the industry, ensuring that it not only caters to Black consumers but is also well-represented by Black voices and leadership. Visit, www.blackfootwearforum.com If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Phyllis Caddell
Publicist, PCPR Communications Member Since May 2024 |
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