Trails are typically viewed as recreational amenities that allow users to exercise, enjoy nature and travel from Point A to Point B without being cooped up inside a motor vehicle.

Now, it’s time to add art appreciation to that list.

Beginning July 25, a total of 11 famous works of art will be displayed along the 16.9-mile Polly Ann Trail between Joslyn Rd. in Orion Township and Bordman Rd. in Addison Township.

“They’re hoping to do all (of the work) in one day,” said Trail Manager Linda Moran. “They start in the morning and go until they get them all installed. July 25 is going to be a very long day.”

There will be pieces of art featured in all of the communities the trail runs through – Orion, Oxford and Addison townships along with the villages of Oxford and Leonard.

“Everybody got something,” Moran said.

They will stay in place through Oct. 31.

It’s all part of the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) Inside/Out program.

Now in its ninth year, the program is designed to expose people to a sampling of the DIA’s vast collection by placing reproductions of priceless masterpieces in communities as part of “a grand, open-air gallery.” The idea is to inspire folks to visit the museum in downtown Detroit and see the real thing.

This is the third time the Oxford area has been selected to participate in the Inside/Out program.

In 2011, seven paintings were placed at locations throughout Oxford, including two on the trail.

The program returned in 2016 with eight paintings positioned around Oxford, including one by the trail.