Artist Statement
"My design is meant to incorporate symbols specific to the Ravenswood neighborhood, and to create a sort of fun ‘eye spy’ for passerby interested in learning more about the neighborhood’s history. For example, the glockenspiel represents the J.C. Deagan Musical Instrument Company that once made its home on Berteau. There are also symbols calling out local businesses (Margie’s Candies, Urban Pooch, Spiteful Brewing, Chicago Glass Collective, and Lillstreet Art Center) as well as establishments like Ravenswood Elementary (where I frequently teach as a Guest Teacher for CPS) and the All Saints Episcopal Church. There’s even hints at some of the art that exists around the neighborhood – like the cicada sculptures from ‘24. My aim is to unite all the things wonderful about this neighborhood and represent it in a visually fun and engaging way!"
- ALEX PERKINS
Can You Find Them All?
- Teardrop: Chicago Glass Collective Logo
- Candy: Margie’s Candies
- Glockenspiel: J.C. Deagan, Inc. – former instrument manufacturing
company that initially started by making glockenspiels! It was located 1770
W Berteau Avenue (where the Chicago Glass Collective is now located!) - Church Building: All Saints’ Episcopal Church
- Ram: Ravenswood Elementary – AKA Ravenswood Rams
- Pie: First Slice Pie Cafe
- Paint Palette: Lillstreet Art Center
- Beer/Hops: Malt Row, home to craft beers aplenty!
- Pizza: Spacca Napoli
- Lava Lamp: Lava Manufacturing Corporation, 1965 – established in Chicago
to manufacture lava lamps! (1650 West Irving Park Road) - Cicada: The Cicada sculptures, Cicada Parade-a
- Ice Cream Sundae: Teddy’s Ice Cream
- Bone/Dog: the numerous pet retail stores and doggy daycares like
Ravenswoof, Ruff Haus Pets, Urban Pooch, Farm to Pet, etc. - Bottle Cap: Spiteful Brewing
- Leaf Sprigs x2: Berteau Greenway, Community Gardens
- Four Chicago Stars
Project Details
In the spring of 2025, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce and Special Service Area 31 issued request for proposals for a new mural to enhance the “People Space” at Damen and Leland. We received over 65 proposals from local artists, which were reviewed a panel of loca business owners, residents, and arts professionals. The top 3 proposals selected by the committee were put to a public vote, where we heard from 2,770 neighbors. In the end, “Eye Spy: Ravenswood” was the winner!
Sponsors: Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, Special Service Area #31, Hayes Properties
Team: Alex Perkins
About the Artist
“Alex P. is a nonbinary and biracial illustrator in Chicago whose vibrant artwork focuses on bold compositions and whimsical shapes.
When they’re not teaching digital illustration at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago to the artists of the future, they can be seen around Chicago painting murals and toting their little white dog around in a backpack.”
