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Friday, August 22, 2025

Walls that Talk: Murals and Street Art Across Chicago

 

A living gallery

Underpasses, alleys, and storefronts form an open-air museum. Some works are decades old; others appear overnight. Together they tell stories of labor, migration, celebration, and everyday life. Expect color, scale, and a sense that the wall itself is part of the composition.

How to explore respectfully

Go in daylight; stick to sidewalks; travel with a friend. Photograph straight-on to honor the artist’s perspective, then step back for context. If you post online, credit the artist if the signature is visible.

A DIY photo walk

Choose a corridor with multiple pieces. Scan for patterns—repeated animals, cultural symbols, or typography. Notice how windows, doorways, and brick joints become frames inside the artwork.

Support the ecosystem

Buy a coffee on the block, tip a street musician, or pick up a print from a local maker. Murals thrive when the businesses around them do.

Safety & weather tips

Carry water in summer; layered clothes in winter. Avoid stepping into lanes for photos; patience brings a better angle.

Keep learning

Follow neighborhood pages and community arts groups. New works often come with dedications, workshops, or open-paint days where visitors can ask questions.


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