LOVES PARK — The latest addition to the 2021 CRE8IV public art initiative is underway outside CD Source, 5723 N. Second St.

Painted by Rockford muralist Brett Whitacre, the large-scale mural project will take five to seven days to complete and will mark the 11th large-scale mural created in the region this summer. The first set of murals was finished in early June, with multiple local and visiting artists creating murals as a part of the CRE8IV public art initiative.

“The CRE8IV program is fantastic way to promote public art, bring vibrancy to the streetscape, and strengthen the regional draw. The City of Loves Park couldn’t be happier to participate in this program,” said Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury. “We are excited to see the finished mural at 5723 North Second Street and to start planning for future murals, in Loves Park, next year. I would like to thank everyone involved in making this happen; David and Colleen Anderson, the Painter’s District Council No. 30, Local 607, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and CD Source for providing the unique canvass.”

Whitacre will paint the final two murals, the one in Loves Park and one in Pecatonica. His art is inspired by a mix of vintage and modern advertising as well as American history. After moving to Chicago in 2000 he began collecting otherwise discarded materials from alleyways such as old windowpanes, television sets, luggage, and salvaged wood. He applies his imagery to the found objects juxtaposing old and new. The result of his work has a strong modern feel contrasted with a rustic warmth.

The mural in Pecatonica is expected to be finished in September, which will mark the completion of all 12 murals for 2021.

“These murals have brought new life and creativity to multiple neighborhoods and communities this year in the Rockford region,” said Kristen Paul, RACVB director of destination development. “The importance and value that public art can bring to an area is very impactful and recognizable. In the future, we hope to bring more public art to additional neighborhoods and communities in Winnebago County.”

The public is encouraged to stop by while the mural is being painted and to check back occasionally to see its progress.