Sister Cities: Hello Kirsten
Title
Listen To Learn
Artist
Hello Kirsten
Location
72 E. 11th Street
Photo Credit
Sandra Steinbrecher
Artist Statement
Hello Kirsten aka Kirsten McCrea's detailed artworks showcase layered histories, using ornamentation and patterning to reveal alternate narratives that celebrate diversity in all its forms. Her mural Listen to Learn was created as a reminder that listening is a key element of understanding, educating, and harmony. Reflecting on how she came up with the idea for this project Kirsten said: “We are living in a particularly fearful and divisive time. This work highlights a path forward through patterns, motifs and designs that honor diverse points of view, pointing a way towards dialogue that is open-minded and participatory. The mural itself is representative of multicultural patterns that hint at Chicago’s particular demographic mix. In the middle, a telephone receiver is held up and out of the ear piece a bright beam of color emerges; highlighting the fact that listening illuminates life, bringing out more nuanced color, texture, and greater general awareness."