Chicago’s Magnificent Mile is once again the stage for a captivating public art display, as the ‘Monuments of Stillness’ installation by New York artist Carole A. Feuerman takes center stage. This new exhibit seeks to evoke the charm of the 1999 ‘Cows on Parade,’ which transformed the city’s perception of public art.
The unveiling took place in front of the iconic Wrigley Building, with local leaders such as Aldermen Brendan Reilly and Brian Hopkins, as well as community figures like events department Commissioner Kenya Merritt and Kimberly Bares, CEO of the Magnificent Mile Association, in attendance.
Hopkins highlighted the historical significance of Michigan Avenue as a long-standing outdoor public art gallery, noting, “This tradition began almost 30 years ago with the famous Cows on Parade installation, which really kind of started this idea that public art should be placed in the most accessible, prominent location for citizens, residents, and tourists alike.”
The ‘Monuments of Stillness’ features 10 statues, with two already installed at the Wrigley Building: ‘Justice’ and ‘The Golden Mean.’ Additional statues, such as ‘Christina’ and ‘Contemplation (with Candy Pink Suit),’ will soon join the exhibit along Michigan Avenue.
Feuerman’s work often draws from personal experiences, as seen in ‘Patience,’ modeled after her weight management doctor, and ‘Brooke with Beach Ball,’ inspired by the 10-year-old daughter of her lawyer. The artist explained, “Water is life, sustains us, connects us, and reminds us that we’re part of a larger something other than ourselves.”
The reflective nature of some statues, like ‘Justice,’ allows viewers to become part of the artwork. Feuerman stated, “When you look into those surfaces, you become part of the work, and that was my idea. The sculpture is not complete without you, the viewer.”
For those interested in exploring more of Feuerman’s art, the Hilton Contemporary gallery at 714 N. Wells St. offers additional pieces. The sculptures will remain on display on Michigan Avenue until November, after which they will travel to California.
As the installation aims to draw both locals and tourists, it is already capturing the attention of passersby, with ‘Justice’ becoming a popular attraction shortly after its unveiling.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
