Bakpak Durden photographed in her home studio for the Artists and Artisans Project.

Bakpak Durden is a conceptual fine artist creating hyperrealistic figures in a range of mediums, including oil, graphite, acrylic and fine art photography. The detailed, emotionally engaging images shine a spotlight on human feelings, thoughts and moods. Bakpak’s work has been featured in gallery shows in the Annex Gallery, The Bottom Line, Cass Cafe, Our/Vodka, MASH Detroit, and Junction Hall Gallery. Bakpak has most recently been a contributing muralist to the city of Detroit’s “City Walls” project curated by 1xrun with the City of Detroit.

Joey Salamon photographed in his home in Oak Park, MI for the Artists and Artisans Project.

. Detroit-based artist, Joey Salamon, combines eye-catching patterns, a rainbow color palate and repeating geometric shapes to create his highly specific and unique style. Beyond private commissions, Salamon has created work for or in collaboration with the likes of Microsoft, Steelcase, Duo Security, Grand Valley State University, LBI Limited, Levitate Music Festival, the NORML Foundation, Fifth Estate Magazine and numerous musical acts such as Matisyahu, of Montreal, Lotus, Slightly Stoopid, The War on Drugs, The Orwells, The Disco Biscuits, Murder by Death, Guster, The Airborne Toxic Event, and has also been a frequent collaborator with the Bobcat Bonnie’s restaurant group in Detroit including the overall interior design, to name a few.

Sydney James photographed in her home studio in Detroit, Michigan for the Artists and Artisans Project. . Sydney is the first subject and participant in a new series I’m working on called the “Artists and Artisans Project”. I’ve been meaning to start working on this series for a while now. I’ve always been interested in photographing people who create. Whether it’s painting, sculpting, woodworking, music, or poetry, I’m always in awe of any persons ability to create. This project is underway and will be ongoing indefinitely.  My goal is to work with one artist a week.  A huge thank you to Sydney for helping me get this kicked off. You’re the best!!