Authored by Ashley Ciricola, curator of fine and performing arts for the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS).
The Detroit Zoo is home to many mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. But did you know the Zoo is also home to a variety of paintings, sculptures, photographs and other pieces of art?
November 9 happens to be National Go to an Art Museum Day, and we want to shine a deserving light on the the Detroit Zoological Society’s permanent art collection. Read on to learn more about these pieces and see why visitors of all ages should add an art tour to their next Zoo trip.
Since 1995, the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery at the Detroit Zoo has been a designated space to display the permanent art collection, supporting the DZS’ mission by creating meaningful connections between people, animals and the natural world. The cultural and artistic diversity of our permanent art collection encourages guests to consider and compare the varied relationships between humans and animals across different cultures and times.
The universal language of art is a pathway to start or continue discussions about conservation and sustainability topics within our community, and whether you are interested in local artists or ancient artifacts, the permanent art collection at the Detroit Zoo has a little something for everyone. Here are a few of the collections that are currently on display:
Title: Scene III, Collecting, Artist: Tanya Hastings, Date: 1997, Medium: oil on canvas 
Title: Bullet Elephant, Artist: Mary Engel, Date: 1995, Medium: metal bullets with gold leaf on tusks 
Title: Animal Crackers II, Artist: Scott Greenig, Date: 1995, Medium: oil and enamel on board 
Title: Antelope Mask, Artist: Unknown Date: 1920s, Medium: carved polychromed wood and raffia cord
But the beauty isn’t just limited to the indoors; in fact, the collection continues as you venture throughout the Zoo grounds. There are many unique pieces to see, from vibrant Pewabic tile mosaics to bronze animal statues that are at hug level for our smallest art aficionados to enjoy.
Title: Leaping Gazelle, Artist: Marshall Fredericks, Date: 1936, Medium: cast bronze, Donated by Ann Rosenthal in memory of Mike Rosenthal 
Title: Kashka, Artist: Sharon Sommers, Date: 2003, Medium: cast bronze, Donated by Dr. Alexander Maximovich in memory of Veronica Maximovich 
Title: Peacock in Full Display, Artist: Mary Chase Stratton, Date: 1926, Medium: Pewabic tile 
Title: Galapagos Tortoise, Artist: William Allen, Date: 1992, Medium: bronze and copper, Donated by Dr. Suzanne Zeitman and Dr. Jerrold Grossman in memory of Pamela Grossman
Wherever you are in the Zoo, there is likely a meaningful piece of art that is nearby and waiting for you to explore! Plan your next trip to the Detroit Zoo and see it all for yourself – visit www.detroitzoo.org today to purchase your tickets.
Detroit Zoological Society Blog 