East Side Art

Like much of Chicago, the East Side neighborhood has its share of gang related issues and many streets and businesses have been vandalized due to this. Some East Side teens however, have taken a new approach to expressing their art; rather than have a meaning behind the art, it is more for the community as a whole and the way the East Side is viewed by others. Local artist Oscar Chavez says, "I make it for others to enjoy...it's all about how things look visually and not so much a meaning behind it." Although the community has definitely taken a notice to such art, they don't seem to mind since it is harmless and often humorous.

Photos and art by Oscar Chavez