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Mural Created by Pembroke Student Featured at Detroit Grand Prix

Tyler Payne has a knack for combining two things close to his heart: his passion for art, and his love for Detroit. Both were on display in mural form during the IndyCar Detroit Grand Prix over the weekend. For the second year in a row, the Pembroke Academy seventh grader was honored with the opportunity to create race-themed art for the circuit that snaked through downtown Detroit.

“My mural makes me feel a sense of pride,” Tyler said. “I was trying to showcase my love for the city of Detroit and since Detroit is called the Motor City, I immediately thought of Chevrolet which is why I included the Chevy logo in my artwork.”

Tyler was able to see his artwork on the circuit when it was installed, and even met Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield.

Payne with Detroit City Council President Sheffield.
Tyler Payne with Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield.

“It makes me happy when people from all over see my artwork and enjoy what they see. I definitely have more confidence to create, and it inspires me to want to continue creating more art. I go to the Boys and Girls Club to work on my artwork, and I meet new people through this entire experience, which I love!”

Tyler said he’s thankful for both his mother and his uncle, who have made large impacts on his progression as an artist.

“My uncle is the one who got me connected with all of this. He is the one who connected me with the lady who works at the Boys and Girls Club and that’s how I was able to learn about this competition. I am filled with gratitude for my mom because she took the time out of her busy schedule to drive me to the Boys and Girls Club every day. They both were very supportive throughout this entire process, and I am truly grateful.”

Congratulations on following your artistic dreams, Tyler!

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About Pembroke Academy
Pembroke Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Detroit, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.

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