DETROIT, MI.- The Detroit Institute of Arts’ (DIA) Inside|Out project, which debuted last fall, is back by popular demand. Last year, the DIA brought 40 reproductions of paintings from its collection to the streets and parks of the greater metro Detroit area. Celebrating the richness and diversity of the museum’s extensive collection, the project connected with audiences outside the traditional museum walls in a grand, open air gallery.

Inside|Out was so successful that the museum has expanded its scope. There will be four three-month installations: June–August and September–November 2011, and April–June and July–September 2012. In addition, the number of artworks has increased from 40 to 80, and while last year the works were spread throughout different cities, this year seven pieces will be clustered within walking or bike-riding distance in each participating community.

“We are thrilled with the positive response we received from last year’s project,” said Graham W. J. Beal, DIA director. “People have expressed their surprise and delight at seeing a masterpiece where they’d least expect it—in a downtown shopping area, at a beach, or at a dog park. We are excited about bringing more of our amazing collection out into the community, and we hope people will be inspired to come to the DIA to see ‘the real thing’.”

Installation will begin June 1 in Milan. Other cities that will have displays from June to September this year include Brooklyn, Manchester, Livonia, Rochester, Howell, Novi, New Baltimore, Romeo, Sterling Hts. and St. Clair Shores. Decisions are currently being made as to the exact locations where the reproductions will be installed. Once that is determined, participating venues will be featured on an interactive map on the DIA’s website that shows each location and the work of art installed there.

The DIA will be working with the venues to plan educational programs and activities in conjunction with Inside|Out, including talks by the DIA’s Speakers Bureau volunteers, and bike tours in select communities. In addition, the museum will have various social media contests and events that tie in with the works of art.