The purpose of the Homan Square Vacant Lot Campaign was to generate positive programming and activation on vacant lots while IFF is preparing them for permanent use. Foundation for Homan Square (FHS), IFF, and the SAIC Management Studio team (a.k.a. United Front (UF)) worked with Art West Gallery founder and artist, Alexie Young, to build signs on vacant lots that display Alexie’s work from her 2020 SAIC at Homan Square residency project, Lawndale Love Letters.
The signage displays pre-existing work along with a new piece that was created for the Vacant Lot Campaign and inspired by conversations with Homan Square residents . Via a QR code, the signs also include information for residents about the housing developments that will be built on these lots. The project partners revealed the signs during an autumn community day with art walks led by Alexie. This project aims to increase a sense of place, walkability, and community ownership in Homan Square by activating vacant lots with bright artwork reflecting the pride of North Lawndale and engaging current residents in art-centered activities. The October 2nd Homan Square Art Walk brought together over 30 community members, artists, and organizers to celebrate local art talent in Homan Square. The event included an artist talk from Alexie Young of Art West Gallery, a small parade to two of the sites, flower planting, and an “afterparty” with a taco truck and DJ. This project generated positive programming and activation on vacant lots that will be developed into affordable housing for people with disabilities by the non-profit development partnership between IFF and the Foundation for Homan Square. |