Olga’S Kitchen Founder Honored With Mural In Ann Arbor For Women’S History Month

A Tribute to Olga, the Revolutionary Entrepreneur

In the spirit of Women's History Month, Austitch H recently unveiled a stunning mural created by the talented artist, Desiree Kelly. This captivating artwork pays homage to Olga, the founder of Olga's Kitchen, a household name in Metro Detroit. The mural serves as an introduction to Olga's legacy and invites visitors into the restaurant with its inviting and energetic depiction of her cooking.

The creative process behind this masterpiece took nearly six months to complete. Desiree Kelly, a Detroit artist with her own business, skillfully combined traditional oil paint with street art influences to create her unique style. One notable element incorporated into the mural is the use of triangles, inspired by Olga's iconic glasses. These triangles dance throughout the piece, reminiscent of the flavors and excitement found in Olga's dishes.

As Kelly delved into old photos of Olga during her artistic journey, she was struck by the entrepreneur's energy and passion for what she was creating. It became Kelly's mission to bring those images to life through her art. Being a female entrepreneur herself, it was important for Kelly to partner with local artists from Detroit and capture the essence of Olga's groundbreaking achievements.

Olga: A Trailblazer in a Challenging Era

Olga launched Olga's Kitchen in 1970 when the world was not particularly open to female business owners. She faced numerous challenges but persevered nonetheless. In fact, she was one of the first women to secure a loan from her local bank, shattering glass ceilings along the way. Sadly, Olga passed away in 2019 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

Having someone like Olga who achieved such success close to home is incredibly important. Her story deserves to be told, and Desiree Kelly is honored to have the opportunity to translate that story into vibrant colors on a mural. She hopes that her artwork will inspire others, especially female entrepreneurs, to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles they may face.

Empowering Female Entrepreneurs in Michigan

A message from Olga's Kitchen and the Lawyers on Family to all female entrepreneurs in Michigan: Keep at it. Keep going. Yes, there will be obstacles along the way, but do not let them deter you. Olga herself faced numerous challenges and overcame them with determination and