Riverwalk’s New Art Upholding Tradition

A walk down Chicago’s Riverwalk will make life feel normal like you’re back in 2019. However, this year, things will slightly change thanks to the COVID-19 Pandemic as you have to wear a face mask as you stroll to enjoy the views. The summer is here and so is the new art to enjoy it.

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) collaborated with the Department of Assets, Information, and Services (AIS) to announced new public artworks on the Chicago Riverwalk. The artwork will also include a mural celebrating 100 years of Art Deco by artist Kate Lynn Lewis and portraits of Chicagoans by street muralist Dont Fret.

Wearing a face covering and practicing social distancing is required for the Riverwalk guests. “The new artworks on the Riverwalk continue Chicago’s rich tradition of murals and public art,” said Mark Kelly, Commissioner of DCASE. “These commissions support local artists and enrich our second waterfront, as Chicago welcomes visitors – and residents – back to our city, safely and responsibly.”

The newly completed mural The Radiance of Being is designed and painted by Chicago-based artist Kate Lynn Lewis. It is located at the Riverwalk’s Community Marketplace west of Michigan Avenue. The mural will celebrate 100 years of Art Deco architecture. The lead artist and an all-female crew completed the mural over six weeks. It spans over 180 feet tall on two levels.

The artist used her own illustrative style. The scene is composed of motifs from some of Chicago’s Art Deco buildings, including the Chicago Motor Club, the St. Jane, One N. LaSalle, 10 W. Elm St., the Palmolive Building, the Palmer House, the Adler Planetarium and many others. Artist Kate Lynn Lewis says, “Having the opportunity to give back to the city that has developed me as an artist and a person has been the experience of a lifetime.”