New Public Art Coming to Main Street
Open Studio Project: Main Street Mural; the existing structure with its faded, decaying mural
In 2026, Open Studio Project is creating a monumental work of art on the east wall of our building. Because we believe our public spaces should be vibrant commons that reflect and celebrate the community, Open Studio Project is leading a team of artists to transform this neglected shared space into a vibrant artistic statement about resilience and healing.
With support from a Cook County Arts Placemaking Grant, and in collaboration with neighbors and businesses, the Main Street Mural will reflect our community’s values and collective identity, while beautifying this busy corridor. The Creative Placemaking program invites nonprofit organizations to collaborate with residents, artists, and community stakeholders to reimagine public spaces and foster economic, social, and cultural vitality through the arts.
A blank canvas facing the Main Street parking lot. Help us fill it in! [Artist’s rendering]
The 3-story brick building will feature a monumental painting by Chicago-based muralist Oscar Joyo, inspired by ideas and images from members of the community. Open Studio Project will host hands-on workshops to give community stakeholders opportunities to communicate their ideas and their values through images and words.
Another section of the wall will be transformed by a mixed media mosaic mural, a collaborative effort led by Open Studio Project’s own Hope Washinushi and creative couple Edwige Massart and Xavier Wynn. With the participation of students from Nichols Middle and Park School, as well as community members, the mosaic wall will contain personal reflections, objects, and images meant to provide a sense of healing after years of disruptions from Covid and neighborhood construction.
Watch this space for updates on mural-related events, including community surveys, art making workshops, and other ways to get involved!