Prairie Boaat Gathering Space Free Wood paintng Workshop

"Art is Business"- Christine Perri presents a Free painting workshop on the Far South Side; please spread the word.  

Hazel Crest Beautification Commission Open Lands Arboretum "Art in the Woods"

"Art is Business"  

About

The Beautification Commission's "Art in the Woods" project at the Open Lands Arboretum is an exciting initiative that aims to transform our community's landscape by integrating art with nature. This project encourages residents to participate in every step, from the design process to the installation of a captivating collection of sculptures. These artworks will serve not only as visual focal points but also as catalysts for fostering connections during community gatherings. Our goal is to create a lively space that promotes interactive and engaging experiences, immersing community members in both art and nature.

Open Lands Arboretum invites you to the “Oaks and Folks Gala,” a celebration dedicating two nature-based sculptures commissioned by the Village of Hazel Crest. 

The 14-foot-tall Cloudburst metal Sculpture and the 10-foot-tall Hazel Nut Arch sculpture will make their much-anticipated debut to the public.  

Each sculpture incorporates elements inspired by the region’s natural beauty.  These artworks will serve as visual focal points and catalysts for connection in future community gatherings.

The sculptures mark the start of the Hazel Crest Beautification Commission Open Lands Arboretum "Art in the Woods" placemaking project, an exciting effort to transform our community's landscape by blending art with nature.

10-foot-tall Hazel Nut Arch sculpture

HAZEL NUT ARCH is a 10’-tall tree sculpture that incorporates Siberian Elms that grew in the arboretum and carved wood elements created in the artist’s studio, representing a human figure and aspects of the hazelnut shrub.  Artist Christine Perri is a wood sculptor whose work can be found in Chicago parks and the Forest Preserves of Cook County. 

Christine Perri, embellishing a wood sculpture seating element near Hazel Nut Arch

The 14-foot-tall Cloudburst metal Sculpture

Peter N. Gray Installation Day, October 1, 2025

CLOUDBURST is a 14’-tall metal sculpture in bright primary colors depicting three towers of raindrops emanating from three clouds onto the Open Lands CLOUDBURST is a 14’-tall metal sculpture in bright primary colors depicting three towers of raindrops emanating from three clouds onto the Open Lands Arboretum.  Artist Peter N. Gray owns Metal-i-Genics Studio, which creates designs and fabricates steel interior and exterior design elements, furniture, and sculpture for commercial and residential properties.  His large-scale public sculptures are in permanent collections of sculpture parks, public schools and colleges, and a CTA subway station.

Artist Peter N. Gray owns Metal-i-Genics Studio, which creates designs and fabricates steel interior and exterior design elements, furniture, and sculpture for commercial and residential properties.  His large-scale public sculptures are in permanent collections of sculpture parks, public schools and colleges, and a CTA subway station. 

Oaks and Folks Gala - Dedication of Two New Arboretum Sculptures

"Art is Business"   https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oaks-folks-gala-tickets-1739365471949?aff=oddtdtcreator

"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

You are invited to the unveiling of

Two Amazing Sculptures in the Village of Hazel Crest! 

Join us at the Beautification Commission Open Lands Arboretum

Saturday, October 4, 2025, 11:30 AM 

Location:  171st Place & Holmes Ave

Parking at the Police Station lot,

3000 W. 170th Place, Hazel Crest, IL 60429

Open Lands Arboretum invites you to the “Oaks and Folks Gala,” a celebration dedicating two nature-based sculptures commissioned by the Village of Hazel Crest. 

The 14-foot-tall CLOUDBURST metal Sculpture and the 10-foot-tall HAZELNUT ARCH sculpture will make their much-anticipated debut to the public.  

Each sculpture incorporates elements inspired by the region’s natural beauty.  These artworks will serve as visual focal points and catalysts for connection in future community gatherings.

The sculptures mark the start of the Hazel Crest Beautification Commission Open Lands Arboretum "Art in the Woods" placemaking project, an exciting effort to transform our community's landscape by blending art with nature.

 

The Event: Oaks and Folks Gala

Refreshments— appetizers

Entertainment—music provided by Sense to Soul Music School

Brief artist talks/Q & A

Oak tree planting

Location

Open Lands Arboretum entrance—Gathering Space at 

 171st Place & Holmes Ave

Parking at Police Station lot, 3000 W. 170th Place, Hazel Crest, IL 60429

 

Event Schedule

11:30 am         Opening remarks by Village Manager Dante Sawyer

    Welcome from the Village President’s representative

11:45 am         Introduction, Hazel Crest Open Lands by Marilyn Allen, Open Lands Chair 

Karl Persons, Open Lands Coordinator, introduces Becky and Jamie Thomas

12:00 noon     Overview of “Art in the Woods,” William G. Hill, Project Manager

12:15 pm       Unveiling of Hazelnut Arch by artist Christine Perri—Artist Talk/Q&A

12:30 pm       Unveiling of Cloudburst by artist Peter N. Gray—Artist Talk/Q&A

12:45 pm        Oak Tree planting and Reception to follow

The Art and Artists

CLOUDBURST is a 14’-tall metal sculpture in bright primary colors depicting three towers of raindrops emanating from three clouds onto the Open Lands Arboretum.  Artist Peter N. Gray owns Metal-i-Genics Studio, which creates designs and fabricates steel interior and exterior design elements, furniture, and sculpture for commercial and residential properties.  His large-scale public sculptures are in permanent collections of sculpture parks, public schools and colleges, and a CTA subway station.

HAZELNUT ARCH is a 10’-tall tree sculpture that incorporates Siberian Elms that grew in the arboretum and carved wood elements created in the artist’s studio, representing a human figure and aspects of the hazelnut shrub.  Artist Christine Perri is a wood sculptor whose work can be found in Chicago parks and the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

 

About

The Beautification Commission's "Art in the Woods" project at the Open Lands Arboretum is an exciting initiative designed to transform our community's landscape by blending art with nature. This project invites residents to participate in every step, from the design to the installation of a captivating collection of sculptures. These artworks will serve not only as visual focal points but also as catalysts for connection during community gatherings. Our goal is to create a vibrant space that fosters interactive and dynamic experiences, immersing community members in both art and nature.

Social Media

Facebook- (20+) Facebook,

Website: yourhazelcrestopenlands – Hazel Crest Open Lands News and information blog

YouTube History of Hazel Crest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1thiZ0veWK4

Questions?

Marilyn Allen, Chair, Open Lands Beautification Commission, marilynmallen@aol.com

Andre Lewis, Public Works Director, alewis@villageofhazelcrest.com

Karl Persons, Open Lands Coordinator, kjpersons@ameritech.net

William G. Hill, Project Manager, info@williamhillgallery.com

Alpha Bruton, Project Art Consultant, alphabruton@gmail.com

Peter N. Gray, Artist, https://www.metal-i-genics.com/

Christine Perri, Christine Perri Wood Sculpture

Village of Hazel Crest Open Lands "Arts in the Woods" Soundscape- Reggie Nicholson Concepts

On August 9, 2025, the Village of Hazel Crest will host a Moonlight Social at the Open Lands Arboretum, featuring a community listening session. This event will showcase the musical talents of Reggie Nicholson on percussion, Ed House on saxophone, and Yosef Ben Israel on bass, who will create a unique soundscape inspired by the natural surroundings of the Arboretum. This is a great opportunity for community members to engage with music and nature in a collaborative and enriching environment.

The sessions will occur during the Moonlight Social in an outdoor classroom specifically designated for community engagement, located at the entrance of the preserve and the beginning of the trail. Please bring your lawn chairs to enjoy live music as the full moon rises from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM. pm.

Artist Talk a Conversation Led by SHOLO BEVERLY

"Art is Business"

Hazel Crest Open Lands Community Mandala Build

"Art is Business"  Botanical PLACEMAKING Caryl Henry Alexander

For more than 40 years, Visual Artist Caryl Henry Alexander has collaborated with multigenerational, multicultural, and interfaith communities to design and implement community-centered public art projects.

With a deep focus on culture, environment, and nature, Caryl’s work explores the connections between people and our environment, collectively weaving stories through visual-based creative expression.

In the studio, her work spans painting, printmaking, papermaking, textiles, installations, and sculpture, often incorporating repurposed materials and natural plant elements. 

In the community, she engages as a visual artist, curator, lecturer, and activist, using art to foster collective creative vision and action.

From her perspective as a visual artist and herbalist, the Hazel Crest Open Lands Project is an excellent and valuable asset to the community. I am inspired to present three ideas to you that engage the land and the arts in lifting up the efforts that have already been successfully achieved at the site. My ideas are centered on the power of nature to help us relax and remember ourselves.

Join the artist as she gathers natural elements to build the mandala project, including rocks, twigs, branches, grass, flora, and leaves.

August 8: Visit the land and design the mandala

August 9: Hazel Crest Family Mandala Build, 11am-1pm at the gathering space

Full Moon Social Mandala Ceremony 7:30pm -10:00pm

August 10: The artist will document the mandala and then travel back to her studio to construct the Soundscape sculpture.

 

Project History:

Hazel Crest Open Lands Arboretum received ArbNet Level II Accreditation in 2019. The Hazel

Crest Open Lands Area totals 53 acres along Kedzie Avenue between 172nd Street. The

Open Lands Commission is evolving to be more than just about transforming the Open Lands

from an invasive brush-infested jungle into an enjoyable woodland. They have added more

educational presentations and guest speakers at Commission meetings, embraced other

cultures, and experimented with Climate Change Projects with the U.S. Forest Service, and

Morton Arboretum. (Some would brag about their education sessions and research projects to

get into the Level III area.) Not only has the commission labeled hundreds of trees, but they

have also identified and cataloged different species of trees.

Meet the Artist 2025: Roberto Fatal on “En Memoria”

Greetings, Loved Ones! 

Reaching out to share and bring you information on some of my current, recent, as well as Upcoming Movimiento Charcoalfoot Travels and opportunities to connect, share, and support! 

On 8.13.25, Weaving Spirits Festival of Two Spirit Performance will be screening a beautiful action, drama full-length feature film Ponyboi; written, produced & starring Indigequeer y Salvadorian Intersex Advocate, relative  River Gallo! 

The screening will happen at AMC Kabuki 8, in Historic S.F. Japantown on August 13th at 7 pm,  we only have 30 tix until selling out: 

Ponyboi Kabuki 8 

This is my 1st venture leading a fundraiser as resident co-producer with WS alongside the Phenomenal Leadership and Love of J. Miko Thomas {Landa Lakes} and Javier Stell-Fresquez at Weaving Spirits ( Please click and Learn more about these PowerHouse relatives and the Necessary International & Intergalactic work they lead across the globe! Please note that if you have space to provide towards this fundraising event, please dedicate tax-deductible gifts to Weaving Spirits directly.  Thank you to all who have already supported us this past week. 

I am grateful to my community peers and mentors at BAAITS for receiving my heart & dedicated time as a guest here in Yelamu & Huichin. Since our connection in '22 I have been supported as an Artist/ Culture Bearer grantee, Community Fellow in part with the San Francisco Human Rights Commision funding, and in the capacity of an on call Consultant over my time migrating in between Sacramento/Bay and alas transitioning my base to Oakland,  here at Studio Amaru52 (more to share in due time). 

A nod also to Luna Dance & Creativity, as I have recently completed my Dance & Justice Artist Residency supported by a grant from the San Francisco Foundation. 

A huge thank you to Roberto Fatal & Ali Meyers -Ohki for their guiding light and welcoming me back into my film / et. al journey as actor/ producer. We are celebrating the Sundance Indigenous Film Lab National Tour of the latest film they both wrote and produced, which was shot in Sacramento!  visit En Memoria,  and last but not least, we offer a link to check out River Gallo in DO DIGITAL CURANDERAS USE EGGS IN THEIR LIMPIAS. Please enjoy, however we ask you to be in contact to request any sharing, please y thank you. 

Thank you for your tiempo y energia-

Simpre con Amor,

yAyA

Women in Nature: About the Exhibition

"Art is Business"

Women In Nature: Taking Up Space

"Art is Business"

My vision for this show is to reflect nature and the strength of women of color. Being a fine artist, my passion lies in painting large-scale murals. This show will be curated around the consideration of large-scale paintings, like as murals. I would like to create little utopias for our viewers with your art. 

Thank you very much to everyone for your submissions, my heart is full.   

SHOLO BEVERLY

Symbolism in Dragonflies and Praying Mantis

In 2013, I began creating environmental installations that simulate ceremonial purification circles. In these installations, objects and images are chosen to “serve as cultural mirrors, and their situated sites contribute to a broader cultural commentary.

This project, “Women in Nature”, is a pivotal step in my artistic career, as it aligns with my dedication to creating art in unconventional environments as an environmental installation artist. I deliberately seek to move beyond the boundaries of traditional gallery experiences, immersing myself in diverse settings to broaden the dialogue around art. Over the past couple of decades, my journey has led me across various landscapes, both nationally and internationally, where I have embraced the role of artist-in-residence in the natural environment. In these capacities, I have worked with local communities to transform empty lots, national forest preserves, and conservation lands into vibrant spaces for artistic expression. 

Symbolism in Dragonflies and Praying Mantises

Across different cultures, dragonflies symbolize renewal and self-awareness. They inspire us to embrace the present, highlighting the value of personal growth and change.

One summer, a vibrant, emerald-green praying mantis made its way into my home, capturing my attention with its graceful movements and poised demeanor. In many traditions, this fascinating creature is considered a symbol of good luck and protection, suggesting that my environment is blessed with serene and positive energy. 

However, during my observations, I became a witness to the stark reality of nature's sometimes brutal ways. I saw a female mantis consume her mate in an act of sexual cannibalism during their mating ritual. This shocking scene prompted me to reflect deeply on its significance. How could an event so violent coexist with the notion of good luck and protection?

As I pondered this, I began to draw parallels to my own life. The reality of survival often demands sacrifices, and I recognized that, in nature, women—much like the praying mantis—navigate their existence by any means necessary, fiercely asserting their role in procreation to ensure the continuity of their lineage. This contemplation left me with a profound understanding of resilience and the complexities of life and survival.

Concepts and Color Studies:

 

Concept of a gate for the back panel

 

BOSS MOVES: BLACK WOMEN IN BUSINESS

"Art is Business" https://www.bigdayofgiving.org/story/Wbjmkf

As we face a time when accessing information about diverse communities is becoming more difficult, and often removed from public view, organizations like the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum play a vital role. They provide access to art, artifacts, and literature, highlighting the importance of year-round education and resources that celebrate diversity. This underscores the necessity for ongoing opportunities to honor and learn about different cultures.

Please join us to ensure that celebrating Black history goes on beyond the month of February-help us make sure that it continues 365 days a year!!! We are asking business owners to sponsor 10 or more prints to gift to Black Women in their community. Our beautiful video link is below. 

 Thank you for your consideration. Shonna McDaniels 

https://youtube.com/shorts/K5LvrAaonK4?si=Dd8PCgESxSOpyNH1

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Hazel Crest Open Lands: “Art in the Woods” Placemaking Project

One Resident's Story-  by William G. Hill

Hazel Crest Open Lands: “Art in the Woods” Placemaking Project

The Hazel Crest Open Lands "Art in the Woods" placemaking project is an exciting initiative to transform our community's landscape by integrating art with nature. This project strives to engage residents at every step, inviting them to participate in both the design and installation of a captivating collection of sculptures. These artworks will serve as visual focal points and catalysts for connection during community gatherings.

Each sculpture will be carefully crafted to embody the unique character of our local Arboretum, skillfully incorporating elements that highlight the area’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and shared community values. The designs will take inspiration from the vibrant flora and fauna of the region and significant historical and cultural narratives that resonate with the residents.

Karl Persons and William G. Hill

Over the past three years, the Hazel Crest Open Lands Area has achieved significant milestones, culminating in its esteemed Level II Accreditation. Guided by the Open Lands Committee, the mission is to transform the sprawling fifty-three (53) acres along Kedzie Avenue, situated between 171st Street and the I-80 interstate, from an overgrown, invasive brush-choked wilderness into a vibrant and inviting woodland that enhances the quality of life for residents and serves as a valuable community asset.

Hazel Crest Open Lands Area

The Open Lands Beautification Commission is evolving beyond its initial focus on physical transformation. In recent years, it has expanded its programming to include educational presentations and invited guest speakers at Commission meetings, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship. Additionally, the Commission has embraced the rich diversity of cultures within the community and actively engaged in innovative Climate Change Projects in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and Morton Arboretum. 

Their efforts have not been limited to reforestation; the Commission has meticulously labeled hundreds of trees and diligently identified and cataloged various species, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the local ecosystem. This multifaceted approach beautifies the area and educates and unites residents, reinforcing the importance of environmental conservation and community involvement.

The committee has creatively enhanced fire hydrants that were initially used as placeholders during the early stages of housing development in the picturesque Open Lands. They have skillfully transformed unsightly tree stumps along the winding pathways into inviting seating areas, providing rest stops for passersby. Large boulders now elegantly cover manhole covers, ensuring public safety and adding natural beauty to the surroundings.

 

In addition to these improvements, the Open Lands Committee hosts a delightful annual tree-lighting event each December, bringing the community together to celebrate the holiday spirit. They also organize community planting days, inviting residents to join in the effort to beautify the woodland areas with vibrant flowers. These activities highlight and enhance the area’s natural splendor, fostering a deeper connection between the community and the environment.

As the Arboretum evolves with an increasingly diverse collection of trees, we envision that the introduction of new artistic installations will enrich the landscape, creating captivating spaces for visitors to explore. This enhancement will not only beautify the area but also provide vital green spaces that support the mental and physical well-being of our community. Those who engage in the process of placemaking and take on the role of stewards will foster a vibrant environment that encourages connection, relaxation, and appreciation of nature.

Presentation Gathering Space entrance to the Open Lands

• Work with the Homewood-Flossmoor High School Science Department, Hillcrest High School, and Grammar School Districts 144 and 152 ½ to augment the students’ classroom education. 
• Develop a brochure to promote the Open Lands to the education staff of the local schools. 
• Providing an outdoor classroom for the students will bring some realism and hands-on experiences to their education.

Phantom Gallery Chicago Open Studio 2025 Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour

"Art is Business" www.bronzevilleartdistrict.com

This summer is extra special as we’re celebrating 20 amazing years of programming!

Also, don’t miss out—The Phantom Gallery Chicago Network will be hosting an Open Studio in ROOM 205, on the second floor of the Bronzeville Artist Lofts, over ten years 2014 to 2025. I'm looking forward to seeing you all there! 

Jazmin Davis is the founder and owner of JD Events, hosting events in Baltimore, Maryland, specifically at restaurants sometimes referred to as supper clubs or closed-door dining establishments. These venues often operate out of someone's home or a small, intimate space, such as our atelier gallery. JD Events will join the Phantom Gallery Chicago during our Trolley Tour from June 20th to September, where we will be mixing drinks and serving bites.

Join us for small bite appetizers from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM, happy hour cocktails by JD Events from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, and a party with our appetizer catering services from Soul Kitchen Chicago. 

NOEL Catering:https://soulkitchenchicago.com/our-story/

Meet Noel Peters, founder and the driving force behind Soul Kitchen Chicago. Noel developed an early passion for cooking from watching her grandmother, mom, and aunts cook in the kitchen. Inspired and having learned from the matriarchs in her family, Noel quickly became known amongst her friends for making the best home-cooked meals and never shying away from sharing with everyone after school. Many years later, with ample experience under her apron, Noel has perfected her skill by traveling to various Caribbean islands, where she immersed herself in the local culture, learning from skilled chefs and home cooks alike.

This experience not only expanded Noel’s culinary knowledge but also inspired the creation of Soul Kitchen Chicago. In 2022, Noel founded Soul Kitchen Chicago to bring the soulful fusion of Southern and Caribbean flavors to the heart of Chicago. No matter the event, the hint of home-cooked dining is always present. Noel has successfully catered for various events: pop-ups, corporate events, holiday parties, business launch parties, and more!

DANI'S ART CORNER- CHILDREN AND FAMILY CREATIVE PAINTING 6pm to 8pm

We have everything you need for a fun and creative time: canvases, paints, brushes, aprons, easels, music, and plenty of inspiration! Perfect for families with young aspiring artists aged 5 to 12, it's a great opportunity to bring your friends along. Let the creative painting adventures begin while you wait for the next Double Decker! We can’t wait to see what you create!