Team

Jack Jacket

Engagement Specialist

A graduate of the College for Creative Studies fine arts program, Jacket has been engrained in Detroit's artist community for years with a passion for fostering personal connection and spurring collective activity. Previously cutting their teeth under the wing of Dylan Spaysky at Spaysky Fine Art Gallery, Jacket brings to the table unique methods of involvement which stray away from the beaten path. Through there lived experiences jacket has developed acute sensitivity to the intangible power created through interpersonal connections. As the original source of The Barbershop's ideation, they carry the heart and soul of the space's aspirations.

Jackson Gifford

Gallery Manager

With a BA in art history from Wayne State University and a wealth of archival preparatory experience from various public and private entities, Jackson provides an attention to detail for the impactfully miniscule. In admiration of past avant-gardes and in anticipation of future transgressors, he aims to bring a critical sensibility to The Barbershop which can fuel the fire of complication. By way of his own artistic practice, Jackson comes to the space with a perspective deeply informed by the frameworks built through popular and experimental sound from across the globe.

Hansen Francisco

Webmaster

Hansen has navigated their way through the food industry and various creative hubs utilizing diverse skillsets honed through labor and computers. With their well-rounded foundation of perspectives, experiences, and skills, Hansen aims to create a framework worthy to present The Barbershop and all its endeavors.

Daniel Eller

Co-Founder

Daniel Eller has spent three decades making things in Detroit; images, businesses, and spaces for artists to work. His photography, video and installation practice primarily focuses on Detroit's built structures as records of labor, culture, and time. Daniel's creative foundation was sparked in high school and developed at the College for Creative Studies in the 1990s, where he was an early adopter of digital tools—long before computers and cameras were the same thing. Coming of age in the Cass Corridor shaped how he sees Detroit and deepened a conviction that art is essential to living.

Lisa Alfelt

Advisor

Lisa brings her 35+ years of design, marketing, film making, and entrepreneurial experience to The Barbershop. Lisa's personal journey began as a graphic designer working in a print shop which was the introduction of life filled with marketing, design, film—and all sorts of creative endeavors. She can also organize and systemize like no one else! Along with Daniel Eller, she built a successful marketing company that served the skilled trades which they sold in 2024. Lisa is now focusing on her primary passion of television and film making. She also assists The Barbershop team with our core mission and making sure we are well organized.