Chicago is known for its dynamic urban culture, diverse communities, and a rich history, with each component finding its unique reflection in the unyielding creative spirit of locals. One can trace and celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage of Chicago by going on a tour of Chicago street art.
Bold and bright murals, thought-provoking stencils inviting a social or political commentary, and protest art pieces that reflect personal stories of struggle and identity exploration – Chicago has it all. Yet, some of the street art pieces stand out and righteously hold the title of iconic art sites.
The rise of Chicago street art
The boom of Chicago street art coincided with a similar trend across the US and happened in the 1960s. During that period, street artists started creating community-driven murals in the Bronzeville and Pilsen districts. One of the first iconic street art objects in Chicago was the Wall of Respect, created in 1967 by a group of African American artists, which attracted public attention to the issues of Black identity and the struggles of African Americans against segregation.
Street art further boomed in the 1970s, especially in the Pilsen district, where Mexican American artists created many culturally inspired murals on a large scale. Other districts known for vibrant street art include Humboldt Park and Wicker Park. At present, one can find over 400 murals in the Chicago streets, each of which tells a unique creative story.
3 must-see art objects in Chicago
Here are the top 3 must-see art objects you should never skip when in Chicago.
#1 Wabash Arts Corridor
This iconic street art site is located along Wabash Avenue. Twenty large murals can be found between Van Buren and Roosevelt Road, featuring such famous works as Collin van der Sluijs’s From Doom to Bloom and Eduardo Kobra’s Muddy Waters. This is an artificially created street art space established in 2013, where local and international artists contributed to the unique visual makeup.
#2 Wicker Park’s Milwaukee Avenue
Milwaukee Avenue has traditionally been the attraction point for street artists. This site features many iconic artworks, including the recently restored Vivian Maier by Eduardo Kobra.
#3 Pilsen Murals
Since the Pilsen district is the cradle of street art in Chicago, it has much in store for street art fans. For example, 16th Street holds many iconic artworks, including Robert Valadez’s Frida Kahlo with Butterfly Wings.
These and many other street art pieces created by such renowned artists as Hebru Brantley, Hector Duarte, and J. C. Riviera are awaiting you in the Chicago streets. The city has much in store for fans of street art and welcomes every visitor on an exciting journey of exploration.