Detroit’s streets have become a canvas for a thought-provoking art installation as techno pioneer Jeff Mills unveils his “This Is Techno” billboard campaign. The series, displayed at four prominent inner-city locations, features pairs of futuristic images accompanied by the phrase “This Is Techno,” challenging viewers to explore the essence of the genre beyond conventional definitions.
Mills, a seminal figure in Detroit’s techno scene and founder of Axis Records, describes the project as an exercise in perception and imagination. Drawing parallels to the Rorschach test, the campaign invites individuals to interpret the juxtaposed images, seeking a third, unseen concept that resides within their own imagination. “This Is Techno requires you to use your sense to know, to build something,” Mills explains.
The billboards are strategically placed at:
- Woodward Avenue south of Canfield Street
- Jefferson Avenue east of Orleans Street
- Woodward Avenue south of Burroughs Street
- Gratiot Avenue and Jay Street
These locations were selected not only for their visibility but also for their cultural significance within Detroit’s rich musical heritage.
The “This Is Techno” campaign coincides with Mills’ upcoming headlining performance at the Movement Electronic Music Festival on May 24, where he steps in for Carl Cox, who postponed his appearance to 2026. The installation serves as both a tribute to Detroit’s techno roots and a prompt for contemporary reflection on the genre’s evolving identity.
By engaging the public in this visual dialogue, Mills continues to push the boundaries of techno, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of its artistic dimensions.
Detroit’s Movement Music Festival Returns This Weekend to Celebrate 25 Years of Techno Legacy
Detroit’s iconic Movement Music Festival is set to electrify downtown this Memorial Day weekend, May 24–26, 2025, marking a quarter-century since its inception as the Detroit Electronic Music Festival in 2000. Held at Hart Plaza, the festival pays homage to the city’s rich techno heritage while embracing a diverse array of global electronic sounds.
Festival Highlights:
- Dates: Saturday, May 24 – Monday, May 26, 2025
- Location: Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI
- Hours: 2 p.m. to midnight on Saturday and Sunday; 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday
- Stages: Six stages featuring over 100 artists
Notable Performers:
This year’s lineup boasts an impressive roster of talent, including:
- Charlotte de Witte
- John Summit
- Carl Cox
- Jeff Mills
- Nina Kraviz
- Carl Craig b2b Moodymann ft. Mike Banks
- Kevin Saunderson b2b The Saunderson Brothers
- The Blessed Madonna
- Goldie b2b Photek ft. Armanni Reign
- FJAAK
- DJ Minx
- Skepta
The festival also features a showcase by the Detroit-based Underground Music Academy, highlighting local talent and the city’s ongoing influence on the electronic music scene.
Afterparties and Additional Events:
Complementing the main festivities, numerous afterparties will take place across Detroit, including venues like Marble Bar, Magic Stick, Menjos, and TV Lounge, ensuring the celebration continues well into the night.
Tickets and More Information:
Tickets for Movement Music Festival 2025 are available in both 3-day and single-day passes, with options for general admission and VIP experiences. For more details on the lineup, schedule, and to purchase tickets, visit the official Movement Festival website.
Join thousands of music enthusiasts from around the world in celebrating Detroit’s techno legacy and the vibrant future of electronic music at this landmark event.