We Rise#3 by CJ Hungerman in Chicago

I have created public artwork with cities, towns, corporations, and private individuals. Each of these experiences has a variety of different directions on the design and completion of the art. In many cases a successful piece of public art begins with the idea of collaboration. I enjoy working with panels or committees to create the perfect piece of original site-specific art for the space and the environment it will be residing. The desire of unity in our community is the base abstract concept I use in all my work. I do this to demonstrate the way all of us can interact with each other as we traverse through the friction of life. I work with the theme of project in order to create a perfect fit for your public artwork. I have had the opportunity to work with the Chinese community, a Middle Eastern corporation, and the city of Chicago to mention a few of my public artwork commissions. Each of these experiences has allowed me to research the space the art will reside, the people that will be exposed to the art the most, the history of the area and stories of the people in the community. Previously to being a public artist I was adjunct faculty at universities and colleges teaching graphic design. The studious environment is one of my favorite places to be and create. I also enjoy creating public art with children of all ages as well as adults. Engaging with people while creating art is fantastic and also allows me to interact with people that live in the area I am painting. As you will see in my sample public art pieces, although I create abstract art I have incorporated or used specific images and icons to fit the theme of each public art I have completed. When I was creating the design for the Chinatown Library in Chicago we went through more than 20 revisions of the 10 foot by 60 foot piece. Each revision, small and large, was an idea from a different individual which made the creation expand into a beautiful piece that the community, the architects, public art works department, and the Mayor could relate to in a positive manner. I did not compromise any individual’s idea but found a way to combine them all together working as one. My work ethic and dedication to visually depict any theme combined with my style (literally, abstractly, or both) is why I am a fantastic candidate for public art projects. The desire to research and listen to the committee or panel that has laid out the theme directives and to create a variety of preliminary designs is my goal. I can work within the budget allowed which includes travel, lodging, equipment, painting materials, as well as any other miscellaneous supplies.