The Decay Devils lead a tour of downtown Gary. Provided
The Decay Devils preservation group has launched a new guide to Northwest Indiana that aims to encourage more people to get out and explore the Region.
The group of photographers, preservationists and urban explorers has issued the new "NWI Landmarks & Arts Guide." It will circulate thousands of printed guides that highlight Northwest Indiana's history, art, architecture, trails and cultural landmarks.
“This project is about helping people rediscover the places around them,” said Tyrell Anderson, president and co-founder of Decay Devils.
The Legacy Foundation, Indiana Landmarks and Indiana Humanities helped fund the initiative, which involved months of research, mapping, photography, design and collaboration with local organizations in different Northwest Indiana communities. The Decay Devils are putting out guides to Crown Point, East Chicago, Gary, Hammond, Whiting and Michigan City that highlight historical sites, murals, sculptures, trails and other points of interest.
The goal was to increase community pride, generate more local tourism and help preserve often overlooked stories, Anderson said. The hope is that more people will appreciate the arts, culture and history in their backyard.
“Northwest Indiana has incredible stories, architecture, art and history woven into everyday spaces, Anderson said. "We wanted to create something accessible that encourages people to slow down, explore, and reconnect with their communities."
As part of the project, the Decay Devils are also planning walking tours, public outreach activities and regional collaborations, including with the Crown Point Library later this month and a planned 5K run in Michigan City this October.
The Decay Devils, who have worked to save Gary's historic Union Station, have exhibited their work at local galleries and led various tours, plan to distribute the printed guides at businesses, cultural institutions, community spaces and events over the next few weeks.
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