Mural on Morgan

Residents of University Commons, University Village Lofts, and the University Village Townhouses worked together with Alderman Danny Solis’ Art in Public Places initiative to bring new life to the large wall on Morgan Street between 15th and just north of the viaduct. The wall, measuring 82 feet long by 12 feet high, served as a daily backdrop for University Village Lofts residents, the Morgan Street townhouses, and the many University Commons neighbors who walked or drove past it.

The mural project had been years in the making. Paul and Israel—who later created the Morgan Street Native Garden Project—had been part of the early Morgan Mural initiative before moving to Milwaukee in 2013. They eventually returned to Chicago, reconnecting with the community just as the mural finished. Thanks to the leadership of resident Nancy Plax, who spearheaded the effort and built strong community support, the mural was completed in 2014.

The theme honored the history of the South Water Market and the Maxwell Street area, preserving a cultural legacy that helped shape the neighborhood. To prepare, residents researched historic photographs and uncovered a “jackpot” of images that revealed just how much the area had changed. Many of these photos were shared on the project’s Facebook page.

The artist for the mural was Nick Goettling, a professional muralist chosen for his ability to tell stories through large-scale public art. To fully fund the project, the community raised $12,000, ensuring the mural was created with the quality and care the neighborhood deserved.