If you’re looking for a fun and inspiring way to explore Chicago’s near-west suburbs, why not tour the incredible public art scattered about Oak Park & the neighboring communities? From vibrant murals that tell the stories of our neighborhoods to sculptures ranging from whimsical to stoic, the area is filled with creative works waiting to be discovered.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good walk, this tour is the perfect way to take in our local culture. So grab your walking shoes, maybe a camera, and let's dive into the colorful world of public art right here in Oak Park!
%20(Instagram%20Post)%20(1).png)
%20(Instagram%20Post)%20(3).png)
%20(Instagram%20Post)%20(4).png)
With Oak Park’s rich history in the arts, it’s no surprise that the village is brimming with unique public art installations. Rooted in the early 20th century when Frank Lloyd Wright's influence began shaping the area, Oak Park has embraced various public art initiatives, including murals and sculptures, reflecting its commitment to cultural enrichment and community identity.
Sculptures Walk
For the past 17 years, the Oak Park Area Arts Council has hosted the DTOP Sculpture Walk, a year-long outdoor exhibit in downtown Oak Park’s business district. This year’s Sculpture Walk, on display until spring 2025, features diverse works by multiple artists from across the Midwest, selected through a juried competition. Visitors can download the free Otocast app to learn more about the sculptures and hear directly from the artists. Bring the family along for an art scavenger hunt and explore the meaning behind each piece.
Click here to learn more.
Mini-Mural Project
The Community Mini-Mural Project in Oak Park, launched in 2010, was designed to engage local artists and residents in beautifying the village through public art. Organized by the Oak Park Area Arts Council, the project invited artists to create small-scale murals on retaining walls along the Green Line. Each mural reflects the unique character and diversity of the neighborhood, turning everyday infrastructure into flawless canvases. The project not only enhanced the visual landscape but also fostered a sense of community pride and artistic expression.
Click here to learn more.
OPRF “Our Time to Grow” Mural
Reliable, respectful, and responsible are the three core values proudly displayed on the colorful mosaic mural at Oak Park River Forest High School. OPRF teacher and mosaic artist Tracy Van Duinen and local artist Carolyn Elaine led the project, guiding OPRF students who helped design and construct the mural in collaboration with the Oak Park Area Art Council’s ‘Off the Wall’ summer youth employment program. The mosaic mural can be seen near the high school’s entrance off East Avenue and when driving down Linden Avenue.
Click here to learn more.
The Legacy Tree
Situated in Scoville Park, this public art installation possesses multiple sculptures representing the history and heritage of Oak Park. The tree symbolizes growth and continuity, celebrating the community’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
Click here to learn more.
“White Fawn” at the Forest Park Post Office
The “White Fawn” mural by Miriam McKinnie captures a piece of Forest Park's illustrious history. Installed in 1940 at the Forest Park Post Office, the mural features the White Fawn steamboat, a once-popular local attraction, and the Haase brothers' remarkable suspension bridge. After being stored away and nearly forgotten for decades, the mural was rediscovered and restored, culminating in its rededication in 2005. Today, the mural stands as a testament to the community’s rich past and its commitment to preserving local art and history.
Click here to learn more.
Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures
The oldest and largest full-time ice sculpting operation in the Midwest, Nadeau’s transforms ice blocks into ornate art installations. Marking the conversion of their industrial facility into an art gallery, a striking twelve-by-eighteen-foot mural was mounted on the side of a historic building in 2018 designed by Chicago painter David Wilinski. Over five months, Wilinski meticulously crafted this detailed dreamscape featuring princesses, robots, and ice castles, aiming to create a piece that captivates both passersby and intentional admirers. This mural, now a bold landmark on Roosevelt Road, marks Nadeau’s evolution into a lively, artistic space.
Click here to learn more.
“Imagine,” a commissioned piece at 810 Beloit.
Oak Park artist Tia Etu has made her mark in Forest Park with the vibrant mural “Imagine," a striking eleven-by-twenty-two-foot piece on the side of 810 Beloit. Featuring playful goldfish swimming through clouds, the mural captures the colorful and dynamic vision requested by the building’s owner. Despite a challenging upbringing and personal setbacks, Tia has built a successful art career, teaching and creating across various media. Her journey from a troubled student to a celebrated artist is as inspiring as the art she brings to life.
The “Cover Our Rust” Mural Project on Circle Avenue Bridge
In 2017, the Forest Park Art Alliance’s "Cover Our Rust" project was founded and breathed new life into Forest Park's Circle Avenue Bridge, a vital but long-neglected thoroughfare. Spearheaded by a dedicated committee and supported by the community, the initiative transformed the rusted, stained bridge into a brilliant mural, with 110 ten-foot sections painted by local artists in a single day. In May 2024, the Arts Alliance invited the public to participate in a “Brushes on the Bridge” event to revamp the murals after some wear and tear. The successful event revitalized the bridge and highlighted the power of community collaboration in enhancing public spaces.
Click here to learn more.
Butterfly Mural at Harrison Park
The “Butterfly Mural” at Harrison Park is set to become a favored attraction for families visiting the Forest Park Community Center. Painted on an eight-foot-tall, forty-foot-long shipping container behind the pool and across from the playground, this interactive artwork will invite kids and parents alike to engage with its colorful design, adding a splash of creativity to the park district’s bustling activities.
You can create your own walking art tour and search for additional murals throughout the village. Try to spot all the new murals on buildings, garages, and alleys!
The Melrose Park Public Art Murals
NewMark Merrill Companies, a national shopping center developer, aims to bring unique cultural art experiences to unexpected places. Grounded in the belief that art can foster hope, instill pride, and inspire people within a community, they’ve commissioned local artists with communal ties to bring their creative visions to life.
At Winston Plaza, you’ll find three stunning murals: “Melrose Park” by Bret Whitacre who uses vibrant colors to uplift the community; “Love is Calling” by Felix Maldonado who drew inspiration from positive aspects of his community; and “The Beauty of Change” by Shayne Taylor which blends a beautiful butterfly with a quote by Maya Angelou.
Click here to learn more.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
Murals of Hope
The Maywood Peace Garden, located at the corner of 17th Avenue and Madison Street, is more than just a green space; it's a bright beacon of community and hope. The garden features several murals created by young artists from Proviso Township that emphasize its diversity and aspirations. One of the standout murals depicts the Chicago skyline as seen from Maywood, symbolizing the connection between the community and opportunity. This piece beautifies the area and represents ambition, resilience, and collective pride for the residents.
Monuments in Veterans Memorial Park
The Veterans Memorial in Maywood Park pays tribute to local veterans, offering a space for reflection on their service and sacrifices. There you’ll find several monuments including a prominent memorial dedicated to the 192nd Tank Battalion to commemorate local soldiers who fought in World War II and endured the Bataan Death March. These monuments serve as a solemn reminder of the community's deep connection to its history and the valor of its members who served in the military.
Maywood Public Library Art
The Maywood Public Library features a striking metal sculpture placed prominently outside the entrance to symbolize growth, knowledge, and the community's commitment to education. In the library, you'll find a vivid mural that celebrates local culture and history, serving as both an artistic focal point and a reminder of Maywood's rich heritage. Together, these artworks enhance the library's role as a cultural and educational hub in the community.
Click here to learn more.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Mural - Riverside Foods
Local artist Erika Vazzana caught the community’s attention with her mural of an Italian church and landscape in Forest Park’s Cafe Deluca. Riverside Foods commissioned this Riverside resident to capture Riverside’s charm and incorporate its historic landmarks.
The mural’s first panel features an old-fashioned streetlight and the iconic suspension bridge, symbolizing Riverside’s rich architectural legacy. The second panel showcases the village's well-known water tower, central to the town’s identity. The third panel provides a serene overview of Riverside’s park along the Des Plaines River, highlighting the natural beauty that defines the community. These murals add aesthetic character while celebrating the village's heritage, creating a sense of pride among residents.
Mural - Riverside Arts Center
In 2022, Riverside Arts Center (RAC) debuted a dynamic new mural by the internationally acclaimed artist Collin van der Sluijs. This bright piece replaced an older, faded mural and now anchors the emerging Quincy Street Arts District.
The design showcases a rich array of birds and plant life, highlighting Riverside's critical role as a flyway for migrating birds. Notably, it features a red-headed woodpecker, a species nearing endangerment.