Introducing ‘A Love Letter to Waukegan’ — a vibrant celebration of our community’s diversity, creativity, and unity. This beautiful mural, created by local artist Gabriela Escovar reflects the rich culture, friendships, and shared dreams that make Waukegan unique. Visit the library to experience this tribute to our city’s spirit and see all that the library has to offer!

This mural, funded in part with a grant by the Waukegan Arts Council, was inspired by the artist’s positive experiences at the library while growing up in Waukegan, the imaginative power discovered through reading and time spent with family and friends, and an interest in sharing the sense of belonging and support that she found here.

Read the artist’s statement about her piece and its larger meaning.
Read more about the celebration here.

Meet the Artists

Gabriela and Stephanie Escovar are a sister duo from Waukegan, IL. Both artists, they often collaborate on creative projects, the latest being this mural. Stephanie and Gaby, along with their two sisters, frequently visited the library growing up, whether to do schoolwork with friends or to spend hours looking through the shelves to find new books to read in their free time. They both credit their time growing up at the library for their love of reading and learning.

Currently, they’re both educators working with students from Kindergarten through High School. Together, as the artist collective Extra Buttons, they hope to continue their artistic pursuits and find creative ways to engage with their communities.

About Waukegan Arts Council

It is the mission of the Waukegan Arts Council to recognize, support, and promote artists and artistic expression that reflect the diverse experiences, traditions, and perspectives that make our city such a rich and dynamic place to live, work, and create.