Before construction begins on the planned $6 billion Lincoln Yards mixed-used project, its developer is inviting people to wander the 55-acre North Side site in search of 26 pieces of public street art.
Local graffiti artist Merlot is in the process of creating “Alphabet Monsters,” a series of 26 murals featuring each letter of the alphabet, commissioned by developer Sterling Bay. She has painted four murals thus far, and the interactive art project will be completed in early September, according to the Chicago developer.
The large murals will be on buildings and manufacturing artifacts throughout the formerly industrial site, which once included businesses such as the A. Finkl & Sons steel plant.
“As part of our continued efforts in activating the riverfront along the North Branch, we plan to deliver rotating public art programs such as this one that spotlight local artists and offer unique perspectives to all those who visit Lincoln Yards,” Sterling Bay CEO Andy Gloor said in a statement.
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Sterling Bay in April secured final City Council approval to build up to 14.5 million square feet of office, residential, hotel, entertainment and other space on the site, which runs along the east and west sides of the Chicago River between North and Webster avenues.
In July, Sterling Bay opened a park with sports fields at the south end of the site. The firm could begin construction of the first Lincoln Yards buildings later this year.
