To Detroit With Love
In her new book, 313ONELOVE, Berlin-based photographer Marie Staggat made the techno pilgrimage to Detroit to capture some of the city’s best-known artists in a truly unique light.
Shot in black and white, Staggat’s images deliver a stark, intimate look at Detroit’s iconic producers and DJs—including Mike Huckaby, Juan Atkins, Stacey Pullen and Claude Young—with a focus on the tools of their trade: the artists’ hands and ears.
Staggat is also using the opportunity to give back, earmarking a portion of the book’s proceeds toward music charities for children in Detroit.
The photographer is set to showcase 313ONELOVE with a special launch event at Detroit’s Museum of Contemporary Art on May 25, just a few days before this year’s Movement Festival kicks off over Memorial Day weekend.
“We will have a nice evening event at the MOCAD to celebrate the Detroit release of the book,” she explained during a recent interview. “It will be from 6–9pm with music, snacks and lovely people. Carhartt WIP will be showcasing the event. I hope everyone can make it out to have fun with us.”
How did you initially become a fan of Detroit techno music?
My interest in Detroit and electronic music from the Motor City definitely came from working at Tresor. Tresor is a club in Berlin that is very famous for the very close connection between Detroit and Berlin. In the beginning of the ‘90s, this connection brought a lot of artists from the US to Berlin, as well as a lot of Detroit producers releasing music on Tresor Records. I was and I am still very fascinated by the unique sound from Detroit. I was so interested in the history, the roots of this sound, and the people, that I decided to go to Detroit and find out about it on my own.
Why do you think there is such an artistic connection between Detroit and Berlin?
I think, as I mentioned before, it has something to do with the connection to Tresor. Also, both cities are very special when it comes to art. They have amazing artists, a lot of talent, musicians, painters, dreamers and doers. Of course, they have a different history. But if you see Detroit nowadays, it is blooming and there are a lot of wonderful things happening right now. What makes me feel so proud of Detroit? These people have been creating something out of nothing for decades.
What inspired you to take your first trip to Detroit?
The city and the music itself. The sound and the talent that comes out of Detroit fascinate me a lot. I wanted to discover it on my own—meet the people behind those records, and capture them and the city with my own eyes.
What was the most surprising aspect of your first trip?
I had different expectations when I first went to Detroit in 2010. At first, I was crazy excited to see everything and meet everybody. There was still a little part of me which made me a little insecure. The insecurity definitely came from how the media shows Detroit all over the world: a dead, poor and violent city. To me, the Motor City is nothing less than beautiful. I met so many wonderful people who have shown me so much love and welcomed me, wherever I went and whoever I met.
Which artist was the easiest to work with, and why? Who was the most difficult?
That is a hard question, especially since I don’t think about photo shoots that way. Every shoot is different. I normally don’t compare them. I wouldn’t say this was easy and this was hard—they are just different. I always have to react to the person, to their character, and try to capture the best of that person. I can say that if I would compare it to taking pictures of artists in Europe, Americans are more open and show more in front of the camera. They love to act and love to play. NO generalization.
Was there anyone you wanted to shoot whom you were unable to connect with for the book?
Yes, there are many more artists I wanted to shoot for the book. Some of them didn’t want to be a part of it. Others are not in Detroit anymore, and I didn’t have a chance to meet them. Also, I was only ever in town for a short period of time with a crazy schedule, hence I also missed Detroit artists because our timetables didn’t fit. I am really happy that I was able to capture all the artists I was able to for the book. I really appreciate their time and all their help.
What inspired you to make it a charity project for the children of Detroit?
You know, when I went to Detroit, I didn’t only go to see downtown. I went to areas where some people maybe would never go, and it really made me sad. Detroit is a pure gem when it comes to talent and what happens with that talent. I think it’s so important to support the kids, the teens, and everyone who might not have a chance to act on their passion or interest because the city doesn’t provide that or there is no money in the families to make that happen for the kids. I don’t want them to waste their time in front of the smartphones or the TV. I want them to be able to be creative, to open their minds. Detroit showed me nothing other than love, so that’s why I decided to give love back.
What is your favorite piece of Detroit techno music, and why?
Phew, I cannot decide. One of my all-time favorites is Octave One ft. Ann Saunderson, “Blackwater.” This track has followed me since the beginning. I would say it has one of the most impressive messages. Also, Ann Saunderson dedicated that song to me in 2010 at the Inner City concert in Detroit. This memory will stay forever and fills my heart with joy all the time.
All photo credits go to Marie Staggat.
