MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A powerful new public art exhibit is drawing attention in Downtown Marquette, and not just for its striking visuals. “Now You See Us” is part of a global movement bringing local stories to the forefront. They’re your neighbors, your coworkers, your friends, and now their faces and stories are attracting a lot of attention in Downtown Marquette.
These 72 large-scale black and white portraits line the rear facade of the Delft theater. Every day people who’ve worked, lived, and given back to the community, but whose contributions often go unrecognized.
“The idea was to put a face to either a local action or a story that communities want to tell. And so the one that we wanted to tell through “Now you see us”, was that the only rule was just anybody who has not been in media or like is a recognizable face,” said Michael Bradford of The Marquette DDA.
The outdoor exhibit is part of the global “Inside Out” project, a participatory art movement founded by acclaimed French artist JR. Since 2011, over 570,000 people in more than 150 countries have joined the project, using public space to spark local change.
“We tried to focus on people who had never been, you know, mentioned or featured in the media, so we could get some of those untold stories of people who usually aren’t usually in the limelight,” said artist Amber Dohrenweld.
Here in Marquette, the installation is called “Now You See Us”. The photos were all shot at the season’s first farmers market, the library, and the senior center.
“Kind of like a wall of fame for people who aren’t widely recognized,” said Zoe Gramana, a ten-year-old portrait participant.
For 10 year old Zoe, whose smile occupies the lower right quadrant, it’s a very special honor.
“Everybody should have a chance to be recognized,” said Zoe.
More than just a mural. This is a living tribute to the people of the community, but since it’s made of paper, it may not last.
For a closer look at the stories behind the faces please visit
