A new mural at Palmer Commons adds to downtown Chelsea’s growing public art collection. Chicago-based artist Raul Ramirez, known professionally as Rawooh and represented by Artist Replete Gallery, completed the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority (DDA) project on Sunday after painting throughout the weekend of Oct. 3–4.
Related: Chicago Artist Rawooh to Paint New Mural at Palmer Commons
The Chelsea project began with a public Call for Artists that attracted submissions from a broad range of artists, including several from the Chelsea community. A local jury of artists, DDA members, and Chelsea business representatives reviewed the submissions and selected Rawooh.
Just weeks before coming to Chelsea, Rawooh completed another downtown mural in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. That project received media coverage, including a feature by NBC 26, highlighting his work in bringing public art to downtown spaces.
As painting progressed Saturday, visitors to the nearby Chelsea Farmers Market could see the artwork take shape.
The completed mural advances the DDA’s effort to develop a thoughtful, coordinated approach to downtown public art. Building on Chelsea’s longstanding connection to the arts, the DDA aims to create a growing collection of artwork that complements the existing Sculpture Walk, reflects the community’s creativity, and gives residents and visitors more to discover downtown.
About the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority
The DDA exists to preserve downtown Chelsea’s unique character, while helping it thrive by supporting local businesses, guiding thoughtful investment, improving public spaces, and strengthening a year-round downtown that serves residents, welcomes visitors, and creates lasting community value.
