“We Need More Whimsy”
Progressive Art Studio Collective
9301 Kercheval Ave., Suite 2
Detroit
Through Sept. 12, 2026
“We need more whimsy” is a phrase you’ll often hear from my mouth. It’s also the name of the current exhibit happening at the Progressive Art Studio Collective (PASC) — a charming, colorful display that celebrates joy and imagination.
PASC is a progressive art studio dedicated to supporting artists with developmental disabilities and assisting them in building career paths as professional artists. Curated by Rashaun Rucker, “We Need More Whimsy” features work from more than 30 artists — a mix of paintings, drawings, and watercolor, many with a cheeky sense of humor.
Superman and Spider-Man made a couple of appearances, although I’m more a “Wizard of Oz” than superhero type. Rodney Stephens’s “Rodney Goes to the Emerald City” features Rodney (apparently) trying to enter the Emerald City, claiming to know Glinda the Good Witch while the guard tells him, “You’re not on the list!” and flying monkeys hover above. There’s a random strip club labeled in the middle that was beyond my grasp, but it made me smile in any case.
Below it was a Motown throwback with “The Supremes” by Lewis Foster, a pencil and watercolor painting depicting the famous trio in full glamour with the names of their most famous songs overhead — another image that hit a soft spot for me, because who doesn’t love Motown?
One of the more detailed works was Nick Granch’s “Family Reunion Party.” Per its title, the work pictures a grand family reunion, filling the frame with dozens of characters in different scenes. In the center is a group of men grilling next to another table of men drinking beer next to a lemonade stand with women chatting. Around them are family members playing sports, arguing or talking, interspersed with cute little flowers, a bunny rabbit, and two cats, one with a sign that says “Feed Me.” There’s also a random nun reading a Bible to two very attentive women. Collectively, it gives off a “Where’s Waldo?” vibe, but one that captures the love, frustration, and dynamics that occur within families.
Life can be so serious, but sometimes adults — especially adults — need to remember to stop to play. “We Need More Whimsy” is not just an opportunity to do that; it’s a reminder to keep doing that long after you leave the gallery.
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