Detroit’s Entertainment Commission Appoints Asia Hamilton, Owner of Norwest Gallery of Art
Asia Hamilton is an artist and entrepreneur who has become an anchor for the city’s art and culture scene through her gallery in Grandmont Rosedale. And now she’s taking the conversation about the value of arts and culture to city hall.
As Detroit continues to strengthen its arts and culture scene and work toward becoming a cultivating hub for artists and big business, the newly appointed Entertainment Commission team is another ally bridging the gap between community members and city hall.
Add to that the appointment of Rochelle Riley, the longtime Detroit Free Press columnist who became the director of arts and culture for the City of Detroit back in May, the entertainment scene can look forward to some cultural enhancements.
“We’re available for you to ask us questions, so that we can bring it to our city council and try to get those things moving for you.” – Asia Hamilton, commissioner
The city’s entertainment commission was established in 2008 with the mission to advocate for and support creative communities and development through the arts. A commissioner is assigned to each one of the seven districts.
“We’re available for you to ask us questions, so that we can bring it to our city council and try to get those things moving for you,” says Asia Hamilton, who was appointed as the Entertainment Commissioner for District 1 in late October.
District 1 covers a variety of neighborhoods including Grandmont-Rosedale, which is home to Norwest Gallery of Art where Hamilton serves as founder and director. “You might have questions about licensing which can be a little tricky when it comes to the city or there might be resources in terms of funding to give your business a facelift or bring visibility.”
In conversation with CultureShift’s Ryan Patrick Hooper, Hamilton recalls the Norwest Theatre that provided entertainment in her neighborhood when she was growing up.
“It was exciting to have that right there in the neighborhood and it’s a need for that,” Hamilton says. “There’s room and space to have a dope and thriving entertainment business. It’s my goal to attract some businesses to our area and bring more visibility to the ones that are already there.”
Click the player for newly appointed Commissioner Asia Hamilton’s conversation about boosting the city’s arts and culture economy.
Interview by: Ryan Patrick Hooper
Post written by: LaToya Cross
