Community members invited to “Meet the Artists” and share feedback at Tuesday (3/28) evening meeting
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) invites members of the neighborhood surrounding the 18th Pink Line station to attend the “Meet the Artists” community meeting on Tuesday, March 28, hosted in conjunction with 25th Ward Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez. During this gathering, attendees will have an opportunity to meet the Design Invitational artists and provide input on plans for new station artwork.
To assist the artists as they begin preparing their project design proposals, CTA will collect feedback from riders, residents and neighbors at the following community meeting:
CTA 18th Pink Line Station – Community Art Meeting
Tuesday, March 28 at 6 p.m.
Benito Juarez High School
2150 South Laflin, Chicago, 60608
*Facility is accessible to people with disabilities.
The seven artists participating in the Design Invitation were selected by an evaluation committee in the summer of 2022 based on their artistic merit, qualifications, and professional recognition. Each artist is to prepare and submit a design proposal for new artwork at the 18th station. The proposed designs are to reflect the original vision of the late Francisco Mendoza who oversaw the temporary project 25 years ago. Details regarding scope of work, budget, location and timeline will be determined at a future date.
This meeting marks the start of the second phase of a two-phased public art program for the 18th Pink Line station. The first phase of work focused on the preservation of the existing platform mural (Untitled, 1998) created by the late Francisco Mendoza, which celebrates Mexican heritage and the surrounding Pilsen community.
To help preserve the spirit and vision of Maestro Mendoza’s original vision, CTA engaged the former artist’s family who gave their permission in proceeding with restoration work and in identifying an artist to perform the repairs. Local muralist Roberto Valadez was selected and approved by the Mendoza family to perform the repairs the mural, which were completed in 2021.
CTA proudly boasts an expansive and diverse collection of public art that has nearly doubled over the last decade to include more than 70 permanent works of art across all eight rail lines and multiple bus facilities. This dynamic and immersive collection of public art includes mosaics, art glass, sculptures and interactive installations created by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, many of whom are local.
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