The Detroit Jazz Festival, Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center and this year’s poster artist Jess Fendo

The Detroit Jazz Festival, the world’s largest free jazz festival, is coming this Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 2. The star-studded lineup features local, national and international musicians.

The inside of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center on Wayne State University's campus.
The inside of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center on Wayne State University’s campus. | Photo by American Black Journal

This year’s festival will be celebrated alongside the grand opening of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University, named in honor of the late jazz advocate Gretchen C. ValadeThe center is part of the Hilberry Gateway integrated performing arts complex.

Detroit artist Jess Fendo, a 25-year-old student at the College for Creative Studies, was selected as this year’s Detroit Jazz Festival poster artist. Known for her murals, acrylic paintings, and graphic design, Fendo draws inspiration from human experience and connections, shaping her artistic vision with a blend of Detroit’s vibrant cultures. 

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation President and Artistic Director Chris Collins about the festival’s impact on Detroit and its global audience. Then, Wayne State University Vice President for Government & Community Affairs Patrick Lindsey talks about the Jazz Center’s impact on the university’s music program.  

Plus, in an American Black Journal exclusive, this year’s poster is revealed. Fendo discusses her creative process, the inspiration behind the poster design, and her profound love for jazz.

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Subscribe to Detroit PBS’ YouTube Channel and don’t miss “American Black Journal” on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Catch the daily conversations on our website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @amblackjournal.

View Past Episodes >

Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to Detroit PBS YouTube Channel & Don’t miss American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Catch the daily conversations on our website, FacebookTwitter, and Instagram @amblackjournal.

View Past Episodes

Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

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