2023
Miracle on Merrill: The Pergola Project
Lead Artist & Creative Director
❋ Graphic Designed by The Pergola Project was led by artists Natalie Perkins and Yaritza Guillen, who conducted an intergenerational design process in partnership with students at O’Keefe Elementary, Lost Boyz Sports, garden leadership, South Shore residents, and members of the nonprofit NeighborSpace.The South Merrill Community Garden was founded more than ten years ago by O’Keefe Elementary students and their teacher, Ms. Kinney. The Pergola Project builds upon the garden’s history as a community-designed and constructed space, continuing to support it as a welcoming and comfortable environment by providing essential shade and shelter for the young children, families, and seniors who regularly visit and participate in garden activities.
❋ The project incorporates goals of the Environment, Climate and Energy pillar of the We Will Chicago citywide plan, which was adopted earlier 2023. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) funded five artist projects designed to highlight key aspects of We Will Chicago.Partners
NeighborSpace
South Merrill Community Garden
City of Chicago We Will Chicago
“ This pergola is a thoughtful collaboration and will provide a safe and sheltering space for kids, families and elders in our community.”