The Detroit Jazz Festival, the world’s largest free jazz festival, is coming this Labor Day weekend, Aug. 30 – Sept. 2. The star-studded lineup features local, national and international musicians.

This year’s festival will be celebrated alongside the grand opening of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University, named in honor of the late jazz advocate Gretchen C. Valade. The center is part of the Hilberry Gateway integrated performing arts complex.

Detroit artist Jess Fendo, a 25-year-old student at the College for Creative Studies, was selected as this year’s Detroit Jazz Festival poster artist. Known for her murals, acrylic paintings, and graphic design, Fendo draws inspiration from human experience and connections, shaping her artistic vision with a blend of Detroit’s vibrant cultures. 

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation President and Artistic Director Chris Collins about the festival’s impact on Detroit and its global audience. Then, Wayne State University Vice President for Government & Community Affairs Patrick Lindsey talks about the Jazz Center’s impact on the university’s music program.  

Plus, in an American Black Journal exclusive, this year’s poster is revealed. Fendo discusses her creative process, the inspiration behind the poster design, and her profound love for jazz.

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Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.