Scarab Club facts for kids
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Scarab Club
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| Location | 217 Farnsworth Street Detroit, Michigan |
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| Built | 1928 |
| Architect | Lancelot Sukert |
| Architectural style | Arts and Crafts |
| NRHP reference No. | 79001176 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 20, 1979 |
The Scarab Club is a special place for artists in Detroit, Michigan. It's a club, an art gallery, and a studio all in one! You can find it at 217 Farnsworth Street, close to the Detroit Institute of Arts.
This historic building was named a Michigan State Historic Site in 1974. Later, in 1979, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It's a really important spot for art and history in Detroit.
Contents
The Scarab Club's Beginnings
The Scarab Club started way back in 1907. It was first called the Hopkin Club. This name honored its founder, a marine painter named Robert Hopkin.
The artists met often to chat about art, share meals, and give feedback on each other's paintings. Their main goal was to help art lovers and artists connect. They also wanted to encourage art in Detroit and provide a fun place for members.
A New Name and Home
In 1913, the club changed its name to the "Scarab Club." It became very popular! One of its members, a Detroit architect named Lancelot Sukert, designed the building you see today.
The new clubhouse opened its doors on October 5, 1928. Inside, you'll find amazing art pieces. These were created and given by members over many years.
Special Art and Signatures
The building features beautiful tile sculptures from Pewabic Pottery. You can even see the Scarab Club's own logo made of tile!
A unique part of the club is the ceiling beams in the lounge. They used to be like a guest book! The famous poet Vachel Lindsay was one of the first to sign a beam.
Now, signing a beam is a special honor. Many famous artists have signed, including Diego Rivera, Norman Rockwell, and Marcel Duchamp.
Fun Parties and Art Shows
From 1917 to 1950, the club held amazing costumed balls. These were some of the biggest social events in Detroit each year! Magazines like Life even covered them.
The Scarab Club also started the annual Exhibition of Michigan Artists. This show began in 1911 at the Detroit Institute of Arts. The club gives out a special award called the Scarab Club Gold Medal. It's their highest honor, given every December.
Exploring the Scarab Club Building
The clubhouse was built in 1928. It was designed in the Arts and Crafts style by architect Lancelot Sukert.
Outside the Club
The outside of the building has cool mosaic tiles. These were finished in the 1980s by artist Edgar Yaeger. Over the front door, there's a ceramic scarab beetle. It was designed by Horace Colby and made at Pewabic Pottery.
The front entrance has old wooden panels. In the back, there's a brick courtyard. It has pretty flower gardens, a fountain, and statues.
Inside the Club
The club has several art galleries and comfy lounges. There are also six working studios where artists create their art.
The second-floor lounge is very special. Its huge ceiling beams were painted by members in 1928. More than 230 artists have signed them since then. This includes famous names like Diego Rivera and Norman Rockwell.
Other beams show important events from the club's history. The lounge also has a fireplace with a mural. This mural, painted by Paul Honoré, shows the different levels of club membership. Old-fashioned lighting and furniture complete the unique look.
