On the northwest side of Detroit, where Grand River Avenue meets Outer Drive, something new and bright has taken root. The RED, a children’s art museum and gallery, opened its doors on March 12, 2026, bringing with it a simple but powerful idea: that every child deserves a space to create, to see themselves in art and to be seen.
Key takeaways
- The big picture: The RED Children’s Art Museum & Gallery is Detroit’s only interactive art museum dedicated entirely to children’s creativity. It’s is a program of Live Coal, a Detroit nonprofit connecting youth with living, local artists through hands-on visual arts education.
- Zoom in: The RED opened March 12, 2026, and is located at 19556 Grand River, Detroit.
- How it works: Open Thursday through Saturday, The RED welcomes families, school groups and curious young minds ready to explore, create and see themselves reflected in art. Wednesday hours are reserved for school tours and field trips, perfect for educators looking for Detroit-based arts enrichment.
- Why it works: Founded by Detroit artist and community leader Yvette Rock, Live Coal believes equitable access to art spaces is essential for thriving children and neighborhoods.
The RED, 19556 Grand River, is the main program of Live Coal, a Detroit nonprofit whose mission is to transform lives and neighborhoods through art and education. It was founded by Detroit resident and artist Yvette Rock, who had been running a community-rooted art gallery and realized that a nonprofit structure was the best way to grow and sustain that work.
The RED is dedicated to the collection and exhibition of children’s art, and is nestled in Detroit’s Grandmont Rosedale neighborhood, a community that has long championed neighborhood pride and civic investment.
Families can expect:
- Interactive art-making spaces where kids can create their own work
- A LEGO building station and early childhood discovery area
- An open studio concept where young artists can experiment freely
- Artwork created by local youth displayed alongside professional pieces
Live Coal’s vision is a Detroit where youth see themselves as agents of community change through art, and through curated learning opportunities with living, local artists. The organization believes that equitable access to art, artists, art materials and art spaces is vital to the health and vibrancy of children, families and communities.
The RED is an interactive experience, a place where a kid from the neighborhood can stand in front of a gallery wall and know that work like theirs belongs there. For Grandmont Rosedale, it’s one more reason to believe that Detroit’s west side is building something lasting, one small red door at a time.
FAQs
Who is The RED for? The RED is designed for children, families and school groups. Kids of all ages are welcome.
What are your hours? The RED is open from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Wednesdays from 10a.m. to 5 p.m. are reserved for school groups and tours only. The museum is closed Monday and Tuesday.
How much does admission cost? Admission is free for members and varies, between $3-$12, for nonmembers. Visit the Admission page for current pricing and membership options.
Does The RED offer school field trips or group tours? Yes! Wednesdays are dedicated to school groups and tours. Contact [email protected] to schedule a visit.
Where is The RED located? We’re at 19556 Grand River, Detroit, near Grand River and Outer Drive.
Can I rent the space for an event? Yes, The RED is available for space rental. Visit the Space Rental page for more details.
Who founded Live Coal and The RED? Live Coal was founded by Detroit artist and community leader Yvette Rock, who created the nonprofit to grow and sustain community-rooted arts education across the city.
