See photos of the new Elton Monroy Duran mural located in Southwest Detroit, in partnership with Metro by T-Mobile!

One of the many things I love about Detroit is its mural art. You can find so many beautiful murals throughout the city that share a story about a memorable person, a neighborhood’s rich culture, or raising awareness on an important issue.

Yesterday, Detroit artist Elton Monroy Duran unveiled his new mural in Southwest Detroit. The mural is called “The Duality Mural” and it’s part of Metro by T-Mobile’s “Metro Murals” program.

Originally from Hildago, Mexico, Elton has been living in Detroit since 2014. One of my favorite murals by Elton is his art depiction of Frida.

This mural is located on the side of the XOCHI’S Gift Shop building. He also completed a beautiful mural over the summer in honor of Detroit music artist Sixto Rodriguez.

Metro by T-Mobile kicked off its Metro Murals program in Southwest Detroit to honor the community and its rich culture.

In an Instagram post, Elton wrote, “I chose to portray these special individuals because they represent not only the carrying on of our cultural heritage, but also our everyday ‘hussle.'”

Elton Monroy Mural Honors Southwest Detroit's Community and Rich History

“Metro by T-Mobile knows neighborhoods across the country are evolving, some through gentrification and some through economic hardship. At risk is the essence that makes a community more than just a physical place. Metro by T-Mobile is celebrating these communities by highlighting the unique stories and rich cultural heritage of the people that live and work in these neighborhoods through the Metro Murals program.

Metro by T-Mobile wants to celebrate the rich cultural centers across the country where Metro has been embedded for years and provide its stores as points of expression to recognize and commemorate communities across the country, starting with Southwest Detroit.”

Metro by T-Mobile
Elton Monroy Mural Honors Southwest Detroit's Community

On being chosen by Metro T-Mobile to paint the mural, Elton Monroy Duran said:

“The fact that Metro chose me to represent this mural was very special to me. When I arrived in Detroit, I didn’t know the Latino the community was going to give me so much support, and shape the work I’m creating right now.

I don’t just paint pop culture icons, but also people from the community to celebrate that they are here. This is a great opportunity to represent the community where I live and show the world how culturally rich we are.”

Elton Monroy Mural Honors Southwest Detroit's Community (woman dancing a traditional Mexican dance)

METRO BY T-MOBILE’S GENEROUS DONATION TO THE SOUTHWEST DETROIT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Metro by T-Mobile also donated $25,000 to the Southwest Detroit Business Association (SDBA). SDBA offers support to the Southwest Detroit community through its business association initiatives.

A few weeks ago, we had visited Southwest Detroit’s Dia de Los Muertos public ofrendas, which was also part of SDBA’s community work. Learn more about SDBA’s community work here.

Elton Monroy Mural Honors Southwest Detroit's Community and Rich History

WHERE TO FIND THE NEW ELTON MONROY DURAN MURAL

You can find it on the Metro by T-Mobile Store at 7440 W. Vernor Hwy in Southwest Detroit if you’d like to see it in person!

Beautiful artwork, Elton, and congratulations on being chosen for the Metro Murals program to represent Southwest Detroit!

Check out more of Elton’s work at his official website here. To learn more about Metro’s Mural Program, visit the official website here and follow Metro’s Instagram account here.

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All photographs are courtesy of Metro by T-Mobile.

Written by

Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].