Community Corner

Video: Palos Heights Mural Adds Color to Harlem Avenue

A new mural was unveiled along Harlem Avenue in Palos Heights on Saturday.

Palos Heights celebrated a new artistic addition to Harlem Avenue on Oct. 22 when a new mosaic mural was unveiled. 

Located on the side of  the mural faces the municipal parking lot at 122nd Street and Harlem Avenue. The lot and mural are part of the city's efforts to .

The mural, created by Chicago artist Ann Farley Gaines, depicts Palos Heights landmarks like and the Art Garden. The piece incorporates the work of local students and artists into a tile border that surrounds the mural.

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Farley Gaines spoke of the importance of the arts in a community and work that expresses, "the soul of a community."

The project was largely funded through donations from local businesses and residents. Local artist Maria DeCaprio-Sunta and Palos Heights deputy clerk Pat Sheppard were the leading organizers along with the Art Garden Committee.

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"When you engage the community, you really get excited about having something like this," DeCaprio-Sunta said.

Engagement was necessary through all stages of the project. Residents volunteered time to not only raise money, but to help construct aspects of the mural as well.

Sheppard says the large crowd on hand to witness the unveiling was evidence of community engagement.

"It is just so wonderful to have so many people come out to celebrate it, that's really what it is all about," she said.

While the mural was a large undertaking for volunteers, there is already talk of creating another installation on the other wall the borders the lot, Sheppard said.

The quest to spruce up Harlem will also continue for the city. Mayor Bob Straz says decorative street lights will soon be installed and the asphalt will be replaced by stone pavers.  


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