“welcome to bucktown” mural

Wicker Park Bucktown Special Service Area #33 and the Bucktown Community Organization are seeking qualifications and proposals for a mural wall installation to be painted at 1945 N Damen Ave.

Project Description

This piece of public art will be highly visible, located along one of Wicker Park Bucktown’s popular commercial corridors and in close proximity to murals by other renowned artists such as CZR PRZ and Hebru Brantley. The purpose of this mural is to welcome visitors and commuters to the Bucktown neighborhood by highlighting the charm and local character of the community. Please include a literal or creative rendition of the phrase “Welcome to Bucktown” in your mural renderings.

All proposals will be reviewed by the Arts Committee of WPB SSA #33. Funding for this project is already approved, and the committee will make all curatorial decisions in regards to artist selection.

Murals and public art in Wicker Park Bucktown serve many purposes in the community, including but not limited to:

• Beautifying the streetscape
• Increasing foot traffic and enhancing the pedestrian experience
• Deterring vandalism
• Supporting local Chicago artists by creating work opportunities and visibility
• Fostering a sense of community, pride, place, and belonging for all residents and visitors
• Establishing Wicker Park Bucktown as one of the most prominent arts communities in Chicago

All SSA #33-funded murals are intended to be displayed and maintained for a minimum of three years. Murals will include a plaque with the work’s title, artist name, and other relevant information. Completed murals will be photographed and included in the WPB mural archive (on the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber website) and the City of Chicago’s Mural Registry.

Mural Site & Location

We are currently seeking mural proposals and designs for the north wall of 1945 N Damen Ave. (Studio 1945), in the alley facing the PNC Bank parking lot. Scale is flexible but should not exceed the designated area (26’ x 10’) marked in the rendering. The mural site has already been primed. The artist is responsible for any additional wall prep as needed.

Installation Deadline

The mural must be completed no later than Monday, September 1st.

Artist Requirements

• Must secure any required permits and equipment
• All labor must be provided by the artist
• No structural alterations or lasting damage to the property allowed
• Artist should have experience and proven capability to complete public art projects