Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) designated 2017 the “Year of Public Art” with a new 50×50 Neighborhood Arts Project, the creation of a Public Art Youth Corps, a new Public Art Festival, exhibitions, performances, tours, and more representing a $1.5 million investment in artist-led community projects.
The book Art in Chicago Neighborhoods, edited by Tricia van Eck and co-edited by Iker Gil, documents the 50×50 Neighborhood Arts Project artists (and groups of artists) selected by participating aldermen and the communities they serve. The book also features on the Picasso sculpture and the Wall of Respect as well as interview with the 50×50 curators.