The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Paramont EO and Crest Lighting unveiled Lakeview East’s latest public artwork on Thursday, July 21. Located at 3300 N. Sheffield Ave., this new mural, “Energy Conversion,” is created by local artist Miguel A. Del Real and symbolizes Chicago’s skilled trade workers and their bright future. At the unveiling, the artist Del Real was in attendance as well as representatives of Paramont EO and Crest Lighting and the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce.

“Energy Conversion,” has been in development for the last four years with Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce and Paramont EO and Crest Lighting working closely with Del Real envisioning and executing this large-scale mural.

Funded by Special Service Area #17, which provides programs for the community, the design has evolved to reflect a celebration of local skilled trade workers and the hopeful future they create. This new public work may be enjoyed by people walking and driving as well as by train passengers passing it on the EL.

From the Artist

“For me the goal of public art is a reciprocal process. Just as this location serves the community by providing necessary materials and support for lighting installations – this mural has been installed to honor those in the field who are uniquely skilled and support the community,” said artist Del Real. “This project has come to fruition with years of persistence, communication of vision and dedication to the process by everyone involved and I’m grateful to have been a part of the plan to activate the site.

About Miguel A. Del Real

Artist Miguel A. Del Real illustrates intricate line work contrasted with colorful accents and original designs influenced by calligraphy and indigenous patterns.  The signature Del Real style uses depth and layers to show conceptual imagery, line precision and unique color combinations.  As a lifelong native to Chicago, Del Real finds inspiration from diverse cultural design motifs and the global art scene.  With a Bachelor of Fine Art from Northeastern Illinois University and experience as an educator, Del Real has worked in both public art installation and fine art exhibition.  The overall intention behind this body of work is authentic creative expression through unconfined design motifs.  Viewers are encouraged to reflect on life as a microcosm amidst a larger universe. Shifting focus from the big picture to observation of details is what gives meaning to this artwork and also reflects the interconnectedness of life and multiple layers to our existence. 

From Paramont EO and Crest Lighting

“Paramont EO and Crest Lighting are proud to partner with the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce and Miguel DelReal on this truly creative and uplifting piece of art that enhances our community,” added Erica Gallagher, CTMO of Paramont EO. “We hope people from all over Chicagoland will come to Lakeview East and not only enjoy it but be proud of what it symbolizes.”

Paramont EO and its retail division Crest Lighting are at the forefront of cutting edge technological innovations that are altering the Chicago lighting landscape. As a family owned and operated business, Paramont EO is dedicated to being one of the most respected electrical distributors in the industry. With over 50 years of experience as a full line electrical distributor, the team at Paramont EO is a full-service supply and logistics problem-solver that helps commercial contractors maximize profit by creating custom solutions to meet their needs for every job. Learn more at www.paramont-eo.com and www.crestlighting.com.

From the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce

“Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce has a commitment to the arts, from our annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts, returning this September, to supporting public art throughout the area,” said Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. “We appreciate Paramont EO and Crest Lighting for partnering with us to create a new must-see destination in Lakeview East with this new work from Miguel Del Real.”

About the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce

The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce is a broad community-based organization designed to represent and help merchants and other business people in the community. It is a policy of the organization to promote goodwill and a pleasant business environment for merchants, consumers, and area residents. As a not for profit organization of merchants and various business people, the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce works to foster economic growth and development within its boundaries of Diversey Parkway on the south, and Irving Park Road on the north, to the Lake on the west, through the collaborative efforts of its staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and the City of Chicago Department of Community Development. Learn more at LakeviewEast.com.