Healing the Community

With the support from the ACCESS Community Art Project Committee, the ACCESS Southwest mural (actually 3 separate walls are included) is the second installment of a larger initiative, with the goal of bringing public art to every region we serve. The concept of the mural was developed with significant input from surrounding community members and ACCESS Southwest staff. According to Laura Whalley, ACCESS Regional Operations Manager, “the mural brainstorming was a wonderful blend of professional skill, enthusiasm, and team spirit that enriched the shared values and vision of the health center and community.” The words “healing” and “sanar” (Spanish for “healing”) are featured in the mural design and became a central theme for the project. The goal was to speak to the physical, mental, and environmental healing of the community and the diversity in its residents. Artist Jamiah Calvin cites, “This mural project represents hope and healing of the community during a time when people are still recovering from the trauma of the pandemic, wars, and economic crises. Contrary to popular belief we are all in this together, and we have to continue to do our best to uplift one another.”

Where to find it

4839 W 47th St. Location data: Chicago Open Data. Get directions