Glass Artists Honor History

Young people working with Chicago nonprofit Firebird Community Arts created glass memorial markers being installed throughout the city as part of The Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project. Artists used glass-blowing and screen-printing techniques to make unique pieces honoring the victims of violence and helping to highlight the riot’s impact on the city. Makers also participated in laying concrete to embed the markers on streets and sidewalks where individuals lost their lives. Firebird Community Arts serves people affected by structural and individual trauma and works to connect Chicagoans through the healing practices of glassblowing and ceramic arts. DMA helped manage development of the organization’s new expanded facility in East Garfield Park.

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Artists highlight lasting impact of Chicago's 1919 race riot with glass markers in the Loop