In November 2023, the Cook County Historical Society (CCHS) and the Johnson Heritage Post (JHP) announced Sam Gathje as the artist selected for a Site-Specific Public Art Project. The goal of the Public Art Project, is to commission a public art piece that reflects artistic and technical qualities, and fosters a welcoming and uplifting environment. The finished piece will be placed at the main plaza entrance of JHP, and will create a focal point for visitors of the gallery, as well as those passing by. 

A panel made up of community members, CCHS board members and staff have begun to work with Gathje on a final design for the project, including the medium. As part of the design process, JHP and CCHS are interested in feedback from full or part-time residents of Cook County to participate in a survey. 

“From the start, we have desired that this artwork is representative of our vibrant community and the ways we all interact with our home. The survey will allow us to choose some themes and ideas that will go on to inspire the work of art,” said Aliya Marxen, Gallery Manager for JHP. 

More information about the project and artist Sam Gathje can be found here. 

The survey will be open until February 15, and can be found here. 

This project was made possible through the generous support from the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation.