If you have walked through downtown Oak Park recently, you may have noticed that some of the outdoor pieces of art have changed. Organized by the Oak Park Area Arts Council, these eight new sculptures, joined by nine additional sculptures in the Harrison Arts District, will be on display until May 2026. All the downtown pieces are an easy stroll from one to the next.
The sculptures are all original and unique. John McNamara, a sculptor and journeyman of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, created “Lantern” by hand, using traditional math instead of a computer-generated program to create his piece. Located in front of Oak Park Jewelers on South Boulevard, you’ll find a large lantern with doors that open.
“Mars” by Emanuel Arturo Zarate Ortiz, is a colorful heron that stands in front of the Lake Theatre. Zarate Ortiz specializes in monumental art and whimsical animal sculptures that honor his Mexican heritage. He uses recycled materials in his work. The large bird looks as if it is ready to take off and fly high over Oak Park.
My favorite is “Safe Haven” at the corner of Lake Street and Forest Avenue, in front of Byline Bank. It consists of three children’s silhouettes in blue, turquoise, and purple on a merry-go-round with birds, squirrels and leaves above them. The children are chasing each other. It was done by Northern Illinois University sculpture professor Shenceng Xu, who has lived in China and the United States. He blends traditional and contemporary elements to show the connection between nature and humanity. The artist tells us that he is trying to convey the “universal longing for peace, safety and a hopeful future.” Looking at this creation, I feel hopeful and uplifted.
As a writer, I love the “story behind the story.” And if you do too, I encourage you to download the free OtoCast app and go to Oak Park, IL – Oak Park Sculpture Walk. Click on the blue bubbles on the app’s map to find the sculptures, the name of each piece and the artists’ names. When you click on the photo of the sculpture at the bottom of the screen, the artist will speak briefly about who they are, the materials they use and what the artwork means to them. It’s like having them next to you as your personal guide.
If you don’t have a smart phone or would like to read about the pieces, you can also find information at https://www.downtownoakpark.net/take-a-stroll-through-downtown-oak-parks-2025-sculpture-walk/
I encourage you to explore these outdoor sculptures and find your favorites.
Joy Aaronson is an Oak Park resident who previously contributed to Chicago Parent and wrote the Kids’ World column for the former Logan Square Free Press.