Temple of the American Dream

The Black Rock Arts Foundation is proud to partner with Motor City Blight Busters in the creation of The Temple of the American Dream in Detroit’s Brightmoor neighborhood. The Temple was completed in June, 2008.

Temple of the American Dream by Lead Artist, David Best, and crew
Grand River and Lahser Road, Detroit, Michigan
Reclaimed scrap wood from toy construction
25’H x 15’W x 15’D

The Temple of the American Dream in Detroit, Michigan. Photo by Fuzzytek.

About the Project

The Temple of the American Dream is the centerpiece of the Detroit Dream Project, a revitalization effort focused on Detroit’s historic Brightmoor neighborhood. A central objective of the Detroit Dream Project is to exemplify how a creative process and common artistic goal can unify community members. Artist David Best led a crew of volunteers in the design and construction of the temple, as a collaborative effort between local community non-profits and Brightmoor neighbors.

The Temple of the American Dream in Detroit, Michigan. Photo by Taymar.

Sheltered by more than 40 trees, the temple acts as a focal point for the community’s dreams of the future for the neighborhood. The Temple has become a welcoming shelter for community gatherings, a children’s arts camp, outdoor music and poetry readings, neighborhood BBQ’s and a wedding. Plans for future art, gardens, and upkeep for the site are in development within the community, including PAWZ, a local kids group.

Read an article about the Temple of the American Dream by BRAF Advisory Board Member, Erik Davis.

The preliminary drawing by David Best of the Temple of the American Dream.

Gallery