Hyde Park residents now have a striking new tribute to one of Chicago’s most celebrated Black artists. A large portrait of the late sculptor Richard Hunt adorns the side of a building at 1515‑19 E. 54th St., a permanent installation that brings his likeness into the neighborhood where many of his public works stand.
Creation and Funding
The mural was painted by local artist Chris Devins, who spent two and a half to three days on the wall, doing most of the work himself with a few helpers for safety. Devins and author‑historian Michelle Duster, both longtime friends of Hunt, began planning the project in 2021. After considering more than 50 possible sites across the South Side, they settled on the current Hyde Park location because it is close to several of Hunt’s outdoor sculptures.
The $30,000 cost was covered by an Illinois Arts Council grant, a GoFundMe campaign and private donations. Devins noted that the project’s funder required completion by Sept. 30, adding pressure to the fundraising and production timeline.
Honoring a Legacy
Richard Hunt, who died at age 88 three years ago, left a legacy of over 35 outdoor sculptures that dot Chicago’s streets and parks. One of his final works, the Ida B. Wells Monument in Bronzeville, was a collaboration with Duster’s great‑grandmother’s family.
“He was a modest person,” Duster said. “I wanted to honor him with a large‑scale mural to make his image more visible.” The mural’s photograph was taken by Devins during a visit to Hunt’s studio, ensuring an authentic representation of the artist.
Community Impact
Both Devins and Duster see the mural as more than a decorative piece; it is a reminder that artists are partners in shaping neighborhoods, not merely hired hands to beautify walls. Devins, whose 2023 “Bronzeville Legends” project earned a Landmarks Illinois Preservation Award, emphasized that honoring Hunt underscores the vital role of creators in cultural life.
The mural invites passersby to pause, learn Hunt’s name, and explore the many works that define Chicago’s public art landscape. “Richard is larger than life. He deserves to be represented as larger than life. He embodies Chicago,” Duster added.
Celebration Event
To mark the installation, Devins and Duster will host a small gathering at 4 p.m. on Oct. 15, followed by a reception at the Bronzeville Historical Society, 4455 S. King Drive. Those interested are asked to RSVP via email to [email protected].
The mural adds a fresh cultural landmark to Hyde Park, reinforcing the neighborhood’s rich artistic heritage and offering residents a new point of pride.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
