Visit to the Midwest of the United States of America - Day 4

"The Detroit Institute of Arts is a key part of your culture, and it contains some of the greatest examples of human creativity in the world. I know what transpired here to save this very valuable collection from being sold off during the city’s bankruptcy case. How this art collection was the key to striking “the grand bargain” that allowed Detroit to move forward in such difficult times," said His Excellency.

Upon his arrival in Detroit on April 29, 2015, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, was greeted by Douglas George, Consul General of Canada in Detroit.

He then proceeded to the Detroit Institute of Arts to deliver remarks to recognize the successful role played by the museum in championing the importance of the arts, even when Detroit was struggling through bankruptcy proceedings. He also highlighted the historic collaboration between public and private sectors that saved this revered institution. He delivered his address in the Rivera Court, surrounded by world-renowned Detroit Industry murals (1932–33).

From the first Van Gogh painting to enter a U.S. museum (Self-Portrait, 1887), to Diego Rivera’s world-renowned Detroit Industry murals (1932–33), the Detroit Institute of Arts’ collection is known for its quality, range and depth.

The Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the premier art museums in the United States, is home to more than 60 000 works comprising a multicultural survey of human creativity from ancient times through the 21st century.