Strip down to help get up to code! That's the concept of a project created to help the Russell Industrial Center stay open.
Photographer Thomas Ulch said, "The Russell is a vital part of the Detroit arts community."
Artists renting in the Russell Industrial Center face uncertainty. Last month, the city had ordered tenants to move out due to safety and code violations.
Now, the building can stay open, only if the owners of the center can bring the issues up to code, but that takes time and money.
"The great thing about the Russell is, it's impossible for artists to find short term leases with affordable prices in the city."
Ulch is a former tenant. He said, "When I saw they were having trouble I wanted to help out as much as I could."
He is creating a photo-book called "Detroit Nude." Models strip down and take photos around the city.
He is doing a group nude photoshoot Saturday at the Russell. That photo will be included in the book.
It's open to anyone who wants to participate, all he asks is for the models to make a donation to the Russell.
And since it is a group setting, you can ask to keep your "privates" private.
"Turn of a hip, a drape of an arm and nothing really shows."
Thomas is hoping to raise a few hundred dollars for the center.
He explained, "Kind of thinking about doing it you should totally come out and do it. I guarantee you will not regret it."
If you are interested in participating in the group nude photoshoot, come down to the Russell Center Saturday by 1 p.m.
