This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Arts & Entertainment

Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce Reveals New Mural by Local Artist

"Energy Conversion" was created by local artist Miguel A. Del Real and executed in partnership with Paramont EO and Crest Lighting.

"Energy Conversion" at 3300 North Sheffield Avenue
"Energy Conversion" at 3300 North Sheffield Avenue

Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its latest public artwork, a mural named “Energy Conversion,” created by local artist Miguel A. Del Real, located at 3300 North Sheffield Avenue and unveiled on Thursday, July 21. Watch the transformation of the art via this video.

“Energy Conversion” was executed in partnership with Paramont EO and Crest Lighting and symbolizes Chicago’s skilled trade workers and their bright future. At the unveiling, Del Real was in attendance as well as representatives from all organizations involved. This project was funded by Special Service Area #17, which provides programs for the community, and may be enjoyed by people walking and driving as well as by train passengers passing it on the EL.

The overall intention behind this body of work is authentic creative expression through unconfined design motifs. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on life as a microcosm amidst a larger universe. Shifting focus from the big picture to observation of details is what gives meaning to this artwork; reflecting on the interconnectedness of life and multiple layers of our existence.

“Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce has a commitment to the arts, from our annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts, returning this September, to supporting public art throughout the area,” said Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. “We appreciate Paramont EO and Crest Lighting for partnering with us to create a new must-see destination in Lakeview East with this new work from Miguel Del Real.”

Artist Miguel A. Del Real illustrates intricate line work contrasted with colorful accents and original designs influenced by calligraphy and indigenous patterns. The signature Del Real style uses depth and layers to show conceptual imagery, line precision and unique color combinations. As a lifelong native to Chicago, Del Real finds inspiration from diverse cultural design motifs and the global art scene. With a Bachelor of Fine Art from Northeastern Illinois University and experience as an educator, Del Real has worked in both public art installation and fine art exhibition.

“For me the goal of public art is a reciprocal process. Just as this location serves the community by providing necessary materials and support for lighting installations - this mural has been installed to honor those in the field who are uniquely skilled and support the community,” said artist Del Real. “This project has come to fruition with years of persistence, communication of vision and dedication to the process by everyone involved and I'm grateful to have been a part of the plan to activate the site.”

Paramont EO and its retail division Crest Lighting are at the forefront of cutting edge technological innovations that are altering the Chicago lighting landscape. As a family owned and operated business, Paramont EO is dedicated to being one of the most respected electrical distributors in the industry. With over 50 years of experience as a full line electrical distributor, the team at Paramont EO is a full-service supply and logistics problem-solver that helps commercial contractors maximize profit by creating custom solutions to meet their needs for every job. Learn more at www.Paramont-eo.com and www.CrestLighting.com.

“Paramont EO and Crest Lighting are proud to partner with the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce and Miguel DelReal on this truly creative and uplifting piece of art that enhances our community,” added Erica Gallagher, CTMO of Paramont EO. “We hope people from all over Chicagoland will come to Lakeview East and not only enjoy it but be proud of what it symbolizes.”

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?