HAMTRAMCK — Graffiti, which could be a form of vandalism, can serve as a powerful artistic means to convey strong messages. Just look at Banksy’s work at the separation wall in the West Bank.

“I Love Gaza.” A mural by Fernandez in the Bronx, New York City

In Hamtramck, work begins next week on a large Yemeni-themed mural to celebrate the community’s heritage and presence in the city. 

The mural will cover the 80 x 16 ft wall of Sheeba, a traditional Yemeni restaurant, at 8752 Joseph Campau St., in south Hamtramck.

It will be painted by New York-based Chilean muralist Dasic Fernandez, an urban artist specializing in Arab art and design. Fernandez will be in Detroit for a month to work on the project. 

The artist has previously painted several murals in Southwest Detroit.

The mural will cost $20,000, but the organizers have only gathered half of the amount needed.

Dasic Fernandez mural in Southwest Detroit.

Bill Meyers, the founder of OneHamtramck, the organization that started the project, said the group looks to “promote diversity through culture.” 

He added that the mural is to honor the Yemeni community of Hamtramck. 

“The Yemeni community has been marginalized here,” said Meyers. “Other than (outgoing councilman  Dr. Abdul A.) Algazali, Yemeni Americans have no representation in the City government and no employees in the City Hall. It seems unfair.” 

According to Meyers, the mural will be protected from vandalism with graffiti-resistant paint.

The Arab American and Chaldean Council (ACC) is a major sponsor of the artwork. 

“We’ve been supporting the community in Hamtramck for 25 years,” said ACC coordinator Ahmad Al-Ammari. “This city reflects America’s diversity. There are 27 languages spoken here. The mural is going to represent a part of the culture.”