The MASON is a contemporary culture magazine that features the resurrection of post-industrial cities through the efforts of their creative communities.

Our premiere issue is set to launch in May 2012 and focuses on the city of Detroit, Michigan.

Mission
The first issue of The MASON will serve to represent Detroit’s creative community and act as a tribute to loyalty, craftsmanship, friendship, and community. The magazine will help to bring awareness and encouragement to the efforts being undertaken in Detroit to keep the city alive and growing. The MASON stands as a testament to the fact that this mindset can aid in the resurrection of a city and demonstrates that the same principles can be applied to other communities experiencing similar difficulties.

Inspiration
The souls found within creative individuals are reluctant, youthful, and perseverant. These artists and creatives are the source of inspiration for The MASON.

While visiting the city of Berlin, a city with many similarities to Detroit, Elyse Moland, Art Director and co-Editor-in-Chief of The MASON, first came to realize the power that minds and hands have on creating futures in environments seemingly on the brink of destruction. Stories of Detroit and its resurrection first reached her there amidst the art scene of Berlin and brought her interest back to North America. The similarities and buzz between a post-communist city and post-capitalist city sparked her curiosity. Upon further research and trips to Detroit from Toronto, Elyse and her co-Editor-in-Chief, Sarah Lambert, fell in love with the vibrancy and hope that remains strong in a city that is in need of authentic
representation.

The MASON is a tribute to loyalty, craftsmanship, friendship, and community. The MASON will help bring awareness and encouragement to the efforts being undertaken in Detroit to keep the city alive and growing.

We believe in this city and those who are making a difference. If this mindset can aid in the resurrection of Detroit, then the same principles can be applied to other communities experiencing similar difficulties.

Vision
The MASON draws inspiration purely from the perseverance of artists and the community of Detroit. Living in a city that has experienced struggles, both historically and economically, is not an easy feat. However, those who live within its borders walk tall, proud of their city. This magazine is dedicated to those who believe in the efforts of the individual, and that creativity leads the way through trouble and strife. Within the pages of The MASON you will find the creatives who make Detroit home, and are fighting for its future.

Just as a mason lays a foundation, these artists use their minds, hearts, and hands to rebuild Detroit.