In a world filled with distractions and stress, taking time for self-care is often viewed as a luxury item instead of a primary need. The good news, however, is that taking fancy trips to the Caribbean or going on expensive shopping sprees aren’t the only ways to show yourself some love. After a long, hard week you can now plan a visit to The Coloring Museum and relieve that built-up anxiety.

Located on Detroit’s west side in the Grand River Workplace, The Coloring Museum provides a calming space for you to explore your creativity and have fun in the process. The venue held its grand opening on September 1st, 2023, and features coloring sheets, stickers, coloring books, and coloring pillows that you can purchase and color on-site or take home to enjoy. The museum and its products are an extension of the Naturally Illustrated brand by Detroit-based artist Sherrie Savage.

Holographic stickers. (Photo: The Creative Armory)

Illustrated pillows to purchase and color. (Photo: The Creative Armory)

“The idea for the museum started with my coloring book that I self-published in 2016. To promote it, I hosted a series of coloring events and got a lot of great reviews where people were inspired and wanted more,” said Savage. From there, Savage began to think about how she could elevate that experience and eventually came up with the idea to launch a space where people could come to have fun and unleash their creativity by coloring on the walls.

“I remember coloring on the walls a few times as a youth. The first time I did get in trouble, but after that I guess my parents saw my creativity and I didn’t get into trouble anymore. But at the end of the day that’s not allowed, so I wanted it to be allowed here.”

 (Photo: The Creative Armory)

(Photo: The Creative Armory)

Savage explained that while she wants to provide a venue where guests can come to relax, she is also hoping it inspires interaction among the community. “I want The Coloring Museum to be a space where people not only explore their inner child and relieve stress but congregate as well. Let’s [discuss how to] rebuild our community and fellowship with one another.”

 (Photo: The Creative Armory)

 (Photo: The Creative Armory)

 (Photo: The Creative Armory)

Savage also shared a piece of advice for other creative entrepreneurs who are pursuing their dreams. “Don’t put so much pressure on yourself. Take your time to explore, be creative and find your voice, and have fun.”

 The Coloring Museum and Naturally Illustrated founder Sherrie Savage. (Photo: The Creative Armory)

The Coloring Museum is located at The Grand River Workplace (19120 Grand River Ave Detroit, MI 48223) and is open Thurs-Fri 5pm – 9pm, and Saturday – Sunday 12pm – 9pm over the next few months.

The cost of admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children 15 years and under. To view a list of upcoming events hosted by The Coloring Museum, click here.