The relationship between DaimlerChrysler Services North America and Cranbrook Academy of Art has been growing steadily over the past three years. With the opening of the DaimlerChrysler Services in North America new headquarters in Farmington Hills in 2002, many works of contemporary art by Academy artists were installed in the building. In addition, DaimlerChrysler Services North America and Cranbrook Academy of Art have begun a program where works of art by students of the Academy are rotated through DaimlerChrysler Services’ North American headquarters, which serves to foster a stimulating and creative work environment for employees.

In coordination with this loan program, the Academy’s Artist-in-Residence, graduate students and other prominent members of the Academy present monthly lunchtime art talks for DaimlerChrysler Services employees, as part of the company’s commitment to supporting art and culture. This intersection of the workplace, art and artist offers a unique and rare educational opportunity for all participants.

Each spring for the last three years, employee representatives from DaimlerChrysler Services North America, together with a professional art consultant, have visited the 10 departments of the Academy to select a collection of approximately 20 to 30 contemporary works of art by students and faculty. The collection is leased to DaimlerChrysler Services in North America for a period of one year, at which time works are either purchased for the permanent collection or replaced by a new selection of work.

The Academy and DaimlerChrysler Services North America also are engaged in other collaborations including the annual Fanfare Fundraiser. In the inaugural year, Fanfare ‘03 was an overwhelming success, providing guests with a rare opportunity to experience the art and life of the Academy and Museum firsthand. All guests were invited “behind the scenes” to the studios. Guests were able to see the art first-hand and hear from resident artists about their hopes and aspirations for the future. Through its architecture, painting, 3D and 2D, sculpture, metalsmithing, print media, ceramics photography and fiber studios, Cranbrook offers a fundraising event that is both meaningful and enjoyable for everyone who attends.