Kintsugi Village, a nonprofit, community-centered campus in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood, has announced a grand opening ceremony for October 11. The free, family-friendly event gives the community a first look at Kintsugi Village and invites neighbors to explore its creative and educational programs.
Grand Opening of Kintsugi Village in Corktown Neighborhood
The official opening of Kintsugi Village, a creativity-centered, education-focused, and connection-oriented new community space, is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET in the Corktown district of Detroit. The campus is situated at 2020 14th Street, Detroit, MI 48216.
The term Kintsugi is derived from a Japanese art that dates back several centuries, where broken pottery is repaired using lacquer blended with precious metals, including gold, silver, or platinum. This approach celebrates every crack instead of hiding it, a philosophy reflected throughout Kintsugi Village
“We believe that when we come together, we can build something truly beautiful, one piece at a time,” said Paul Spiegelman, Co-Founder of Kintsugi Village. “This campus is about resilience, connection, and embracing the beauty in our stories and in each other.”
“Kintsugi Village is not just a place, it’s a movement,” said Hamsa Yaqo, Co-Founder of Kintsugi Village. “Together we can repair, create, and thrive, one golden piece at a time.”
Activities at the Opening Event
The grand opening ceremony will commence after a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and WDIV Anchor Rhonda Walker will host a short program. Key dignitaries at the event will be:
- State Representative Tyrone Carter
- Amanda Elias (Deputy Group Executive, Neighborhoods, Economic Development)
- Sean White (Director, Strategy – Civic Partnerships & Kintsugi Village School Founding Family)
- Kristin Dayag (Chief of Staff – District 6)
- Kintsugi Village Board Members
Guided tours, a DJ set, kids’ activities, and food from several restaurant vendors will keep the attendees engaged. Kintsugi Village is inviting neighbors, partners, and friends to register in advance.
Innovative Programs Offered at Kintsugi Village
Kintsugi Village brings together education, arts, and wellness programs in a vibrant, collaborative space for all ages.
The programs of Kintsugi Village are created to provoke imagination, teamwork, and social influence:
- Early Childhood Education Center – The program is Reggio Emilia-inspired and designed to encourage children (aged 3-5) to explore, work in a group, and be creative with hands-on experiences that require working with nature, food, and art.
- Artist Incubator – An artists’ studio, exhibition, and entrepreneurial workshop that supports the emergent artists in various fields, including visual art, pottery, and photography.
- Retreat Center – An inviting environment where teams, organizations, and groups can reflect, work, and develop using tailored retreat experiences.
- Culinary Kitchen – An up-to-date kitchen offering healthy food to the school and retreat, and at the same time conducting cooking classes, cultural events, and team-building activities.
- Outdoor Oasis – This green area includes a pocket forest, lush gardens, and a garden house in the sunlight that promotes mindfulness and sustainability.
Ways to Get Involved at the Nonprofit Community-Centered Campus
Community members can participate and get involved with the Kintsugi Village by providing financial aid in the form of educational materials, artist residencies, retreats, and community programs.
One can volunteer by helping at the education center or culinary kitchen, gardens, or wellness projects. Even a visit to the art exhibit or cooking classes can help unite the community.
People are also encouraged to sign up for the Early Childhood Education program or Artist Residency program and be a contributor to the Kintsugi Village community.
Kintsugi Village was born out of a collective dream of co-founders Paul and Hamsa, who have been collaborating in the Small Giants Community over the years.
Located in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood, the campus honors the area’s traditions while fostering creativity and innovation. Kintsugi Village aims to nurture children, artists, and families while connecting the community to local culture and creative opportunities.
