A couple months ago, we reported that Hamtramck Disneyland, the unique public art space created by Ukranian immigrant Dmytro Szylak, was for sale. We're happy to say that the property, which includes two houses, was sold to Hatch Art in Hamtramck. They'll be turning it into an artist residency program focusing on installation art. The property, viewable from the alleyway between Sobieski and Klinger north of Commor, was sold for $100,000.
According to Scott Collins, President of Hatch Art, it was a community effort to save Hamtramck Disneyland. "When Dmytro recently passed, his estate was in limbo and there was not a plan protect or preserve the art," he says. "There was immediately an outpouring of concern for the future of Hamtramck Disneyland. A group of residents and artists formed to come up with ideas to utilize and save this great local treasure. Through a lot of effort, time, and creativity and driven by the energy and support of the community, this group was able to secure the property and is leading the effort with Hatch Art to preserve and continue the legacy of Hamtramck Disneyland."
Collins says that much restoration work needs to be done to the property and a fundraising campaign will be launched soon to help. "The property and the art installation need a lot of work to preserve them and improve them to serve the community for a long time to come," he says. "The garages that support the art suffer from rotten roofs and failing roof structure, a lot of the art is weathered and needs immediate restoration work to be saved. The lights, motion, and sound that Dmytro had originally built in all need to be re-built. Hatch plans to complete all the restoration and also plans to renovate the garage interiors and one of the apartments to serve the artist residency program and to attract local artists to the other apartments. We plan to continue Dmytro's efforts at Hamtramck Disneyland long into the future."
They are seeking volunteers to help with the restoration process. Those interested in volunteering or donating can visit Hatch Art or email Scott.
- Your Chance to Own Hamtramck Disneyland [Curbed Detroit]
- Hatch Art