New Community Mural Installed at Dossin Great Lakes Museum

A woman speaks at an outdoor event, with a colorful mural depicting kayakers and nature in the background.

A new splash of color and creativity has arrived at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum! “Currents in Color,” a 32-by-8-foot paint-by-number mural designed by Detroit artist Brontae Williamson (above), has been completed and installed on the museum’s west-facing wall.

Selected as the winning design for the Detroit Historical Society’s Summer 2026 Mural Project, Williamson’s vibrant artwork celebrates the diversity of Detroit’s people and natural environment, as well as the deep connection Detroiters have with their city. The scene brings together elements of the region’s waterways, wildlife and skyline in a colorful tribute to Detroit’s maritime heritage and creative spirit.

A Community Project

Hands painting a leaf on a vibrant mural, using green and blue acrylics.

“Currents in Color” is especially unique because of how it came to life. The mural is made up of 16 four-foot-square, paint-by-number-style panels, which were painted by museum visitors and supporters throughout the summer before being assembled and installed at the Dossin. By inviting the community to participate in creating the artwork, the project transformed Williamson’s original design into a collective work of art that belongs to the city. The project also pays homage to the history of paint-by-number, an innovative art form that was developed and popularized in Metro Detroit. 

“Currents in Color” is now part of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, adding a new visual landmark to Belle Isle and welcoming visitors to explore the museum’s stories of Detroit and the Great Lakes. See it for yourself on your next visit!

  • Mural depicting people kayaking and nature; group of people standing in front on grass.
  • Two women smiling and posing in front of a colorful mural depicting people kayaking.

    President and CEO Elana Rugh and project sponsor Lisa Capra.

  • Speaker at a podium with an audience, in front of a colorful mural of people kayaking and nature scenes.
  • Three people standing and smiling in front of a colorful mural of a boat.
Published
September 23, 2026