Growing up in the Big Apple, Nick Kramer never imagined he’d make his mark in the Motor City as a featured Documenter. But after moving here in 2018, Nick, an artist and real estate agent, became intrigued. His desire to connect with Detroit’s culture and landscape, led him to Detroit Documenters.
Since last August, Nick has covered seven public meetings and feels emboldened to cover more. He said meetings often feel emotionally charged with residents who are “not unjustifiably” angry at their local government about everything from taxes to streetlights.
Nick traces his curiosity about civic life back to his childhood and time spent tagging along with his father, who worked at a New York City housing department. They’d view a vacant lot, for instance, then return to the same spot a few years later to see how it changed, sometimes becoming the scene of a ribbon cutting. Observing that process helped Nick learn about his city.
He’s helping to instill a similar lifelong curiosity in his nine-year-old twin daughters: They read novels and explore bookstores together. Nick even imagines Documenters as a great learning opportunity for them when they’re older.
When asked what he has to say to his fellow Documenters, Nick’s response is just what the doctor ordered:
“I want to meet you!”
Read more about Nick and how you can connect with him.
Name:
Nick Kramer
Location:
Detroit
What I do:
I’m a Realtor, bookstore enthusiast and father of twins.
What I love about it:
I love the variety of people and places I’m touched by, helping someone find a home is surprisingly intimate and gratifying.
One thing I want to get from the Documenters community:
I’m a transplant to the area, and I appreciate the opportunity to deepen my connection to and understanding of Detroit.
One thing I can give to the Documenters community:
I have knowledge of Detroit’s residential real estate market. I have past experience running a community art space and writing art-based musings.
What is your favorite local restaurant or small business?
I’m grateful to be a member at Ceramics School in Hamtramck. The community is a beacon of inspiring positivity!
How you can reach me:
Instagram.
