Redefining the Gallery Experience
When Anthony Curis and his wife JJ launched Library Street Collective (LSC) in 2012, they rejected the traditional sterile "white-cube" gallery model. Instead, they placed contemporary art at the center of Detroit's civic experience.
LSC quickly gained national prominence by representing world-renowned contemporary artists like Shepard Fairey, Nina Chanel Abney, Sam Friedman, and Tyrrell Winston, alongside Detroit powerhouses like McArthur Binion and Beverly Fishman.
The Belt & The LANTERN Complex
One of Curis's most celebrated achievements is The Belt, a former trash alley in downtown Detroit transformed into a public art promenade lined with rotating murals, neon installations, and open-air hospitality concepts.
Moving beyond downtown, Curis spearheaded LANTERN in Detroit's East Village—a 22,000-square-foot adaptive reuse project designed by Snarkitecture housing arts non-profits, ceramics studios, and community galleries.
On Art as Urban Infrastructure
"Public art isn't an afterthought or decoration. It's the emotional core of a neighborhood, creating shared experiences and inviting everyone to feel connected to the city."
— Anthony Curis
Career Highlights
Anthony and JJ Curis open Library Street Collective in downtown Detroit, establishing a platform for internationally recognized contemporary art.
Pioneers 'The Belt', transforming a neglected downtown alley into a world-class public arts pedestrian corridor.
Launches the 'LANTERN' project in East Village, converting a former bakery into a 22,000-sq-ft arts hub with Snarkitecture.
LSC expands its public art initiatives and community programming across East Village and Downtown Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Anthony Curis?
Anthony Curis is a Detroit gallerist, real estate developer, and co-founder of Library Street Collective, known for driving Detroit's contemporary visual art renaissance.
What is Library Street Collective's Instagram?
You can follow Library Street Collective at @librarystreetcollective on Instagram for exhibition updates, public art installations, and artist features.
What is 'The Belt' in Detroit?
The Belt is a reinvented downtown alleyway in Detroit curated by Library Street Collective, featuring murals and installations by top international and local artists.