- Credibility:
LOGAN SQUARE — Unity Park’s popular Art in the Park event is coming back.
After last year’s event had to be reworked because of the pandemic, organizers plan to bring back the event July 31. Neighbors are invited to produce art under the theme “taking care of each other” 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Unity Park, 2636 N. Kimball Ave.
Art supplies and refreshments will be provided.
“Last year was very difficult because we had to cancel some events, and other events were pickup only. They weren’t festive, they weren’t participatory in the park, like this event will be this year,” organizer Joel Monarch said.
Instead of hosting a big gathering, organizers last year gave out 1,000 art kits so families could create art at home. But this year, the park will be filled with neighbors of all ages making art at craft tables. Working artists will also be at the event, so neighbors can learn from “real artists at work,” Monarch said.
The event, now in its 13th year, typically draws 200-500 people, he said. “Art in the Park” started in 2009 thanks to a $2,000 seed grant from Logan Square artist Victor Montanez.
This year’s event also is expected to double as a vaccination clinic. Unity Park Advisory Council is working with Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35th) and Heartland Health Centers on a pop-up clinic, Monarch said. The clinic will administer first shots at the event and help patients set up appointments at their office for second shots.
“This is a way to reach some children, and others, that may not otherwise receive vaccination,” Monarch said.
Ahead of the event, Monarch and the rest of the Unity Park Advisory Council seek volunteers to set up and take down craft tables. Those interested in volunteering should email Unity Park organizer Rosita De La Rosa at rositadelarosa@yahoo.com.
Masks will be required to participate.
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