Magic Trash: A Story of Tyree Guyton and His Art by J.H. Shapiro, illustrated by Vanessa Newton

In the heart of a decrepit neighborhood in Detroit, Tyree Guyton started what is now know as the Heidelberg Project out of frustration for the riff raff that had moved into his neighborhood. Painting a crack house with bright-colored polka dots kept the criminals at bay and started an art movement that would divide residents of the city and of Heidelberg Street. Some people saw it as trash, others art. Twenty-five years later, the Heidelberg Project is still going strong, and is its own visitor's destination in a city that rarely gets visitors.

Using collage art and rhythmical prose, J.H. Shapiro and Vanessa Newton have captured the spirit and the soul of the Heidelberg Project in this book's scant pages.

The Heidelberg Project has been riddled with arson as of late so getting the message out about the importance of what this art installation means to the community is of utmost importance 

For more information on the Heidelberg Project, visit heidelberg.org


Magic Trash: A Story of Tyree Guyton and His Art by J.H Shapiro, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Published: July 1, 2011
Publisher: Charlesbridge
Pages: 32
Genre: Biography Picture Book
Audience: Primary/Middle Grade
Disclosure: Review copy provided by publisher

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