ROGERS PARK — The 22nd Annual Artists of the Wall Festival is gearing up for this year's summer showcasing in Rogers Park, and will include the painting of a 600-foot collaborative seawall mural.
This year's "Expressions of Light" theme — which the painting will center around — was chosen to coincide with the United Nations declaration of 2015 as the "International Year of Light."
Artist Anastasia Mak, a Ukraine-to-Rogers Park transplant, will have her painting of the lighthouse pier at Farwell and Pratt featured on the festival's posters and T-shirts.
Held each year at Loyola Park and its neighboring beach, the arts festival that began more than two decades ago by community organizers who "wanted to deter crime and beautify the area," according to event organizers. Proceeds from the event go toward public programming at the park.
This year, in addition to the mural, a mashup of Chicago-based musicians will be on hand for a two-day concert series. Other activities include a digital photo exhibit highlighting the work of local photographers and an activities tent for kids.
The festival will be held from 9 a.m. until dusk June 20-21 at Loyola Park, 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.
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