Related
CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Some iconic Chicago art installations have a new look and are promoting public health.
The Art Institute of Chicago's lions have worn evergreen wreaths around their necks during the holidays and football helmets during the Chicago Bears season. Now, they are donning something else - face masks.
Crews spent Thursday morning installing giant, artisanal masks on the lions and the Picasso in Daley Plaza. The initiative is a partnership with local designers and the City of Chicago, using creative vision to promote public health. The idea came from Glenview-based Dimension Design.
"It's been really good to be able to reduce the stigma of wearing masks out in public, and really promoting the idea of 'hey, we gotta really help each other out here,'" Biewer said.
Biewer and a friend had the idea of putting masks on Chicago sculptures to promote the importance of wearing masks and staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Designer Kelly Winter at Dimension did some mockups, the firm posted them to Facebook with a nod to Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s page.
The idea followed the recommendation to wear face coverings in public, and the local protocol Chicago Together! Make a Mask, Give a Mask, Wear a Mask.
Beginning Friday, May 1 Illinoisans will be required to wear face masks in public.