West Englewood Library Public Art
Lindsay Coleman
Published: February 23, 2011
Inspired by the hope and courage of Barack Obama’s historic run for President of the United States, artist Ian Weaver has created unique and compelling art for the West Englewood Library. With the West African Adinkra symbols of hope and courage, originally linked to spiritual leaders and royalty, Weaver has given the people of Englewood a real-life incarnation of the words—through our own President Obama.
The paintings are not only an embodiment of the belief and power of an individual, but of the success critical to a culture. The kente cloth images invoke genetic nostalgia to our roots in Africa and synonymously frame the symbols and portrait beautifully.
Using history and art to illustrate the ideas of power and infuse them into our modern African American culture, these paintings remind library users that success is in their heritage and change is possible. Infusing symbols of royalty, intricate kente cloth designs and the image of living history, library patrons are encouraged by the artist to reach their full potential, effectively changing their lives and the lives of those around them.
For more information on this and other public works of art in Chicago, please visit the Chicago Public Art Program webpage.
Artist: Ian Weaver
Barack Obama and The Principles of Courage and Hope
Oil, enamel and acrylic on three wood panels
Center panel: 48in. x 60 in.
Left and right panels: 60in. x 48in. each
West Englewood Library, 1745 West 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60636, 312-747-3481, Monday & Wednesday 12-8p, Tuesday & Thursday 10-6p, Friday & Saturday 9-5p.