All I See is You & I
Photos courtesy of CJ Benninger
All I See is You & I
by Tony Whlgn for Neiman Marcus, Troy
Michigan
CURATOR
Victoria Gildersleeve
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
“Leading with love allows me to show up in this world as my full self, which means I do what I love & love what I do. Being from Detroit, the Motor City, that’s a major component in keeping my drive to innovate as a person & artist. This piece is an example of how letting that love lead will always result in progressive connection – to yourself, your community, or even a new love. The story to be told with this mural is of two people falling in love from their initial introduction to making a true, effortless connection; This all happening here, from the parking lot to the inside of Neiman Marcus.”
Tony Whlgn Biography
Professionally known as Tony Whlgn ( Hoo – li – gen ), Antonio is a multi-hyphenate artist with a focus in painting and design. Born on Detroit’s Eastside with a background in Digital and Fine Art, Tony has survived as an Artist in the 21st Century by creating unconventional ways for his work to be experienced and made available for mass exchange. From music to garments, carrying out a solid narrative effectively is a top priority.
While early life was consumed by the arts, even in his selection for higher education, Tony decided college wasn’t the route his life was destined to go and began pioneering a path of his own. In 2009, the Whlgn® was formed from a belief he and his friends all had in each other’s progress and skill sets respectively. This led them to encourage more creatives and individuals alike to be entrepreneurial, live out their dreams, follow what they believe to be true, and not conform to what society believes will make them happy. The objective Tony holds when creating is to open the door of imagination and inspire individuals that can relate. Which is exactly what makes them Whlgns; “we do what we want because we love what we do and that’s a mantra I want to live beyond me – through my work, the impact I’ve made in my community and my son.” – Tony Whlgn®