Nestled on the intersection of Ida B. Wells and Dearborn, a vibrant mural captures the essence of a woman in a yellow hard hat against a backdrop of vivid blue, with a resounding message declaring “all roads lead back to the Loop.” This public art masterpiece, a tribute to essential workers during the pandemic, is emblematic of the distinctive style of Chicago artist Dwight White II. White’s artistic endeavours extend beyond murals; they encompass an entire movement to celebrate human experiences and nurture a sense of community.
From sprawling murals gracing Chicago’s streets to fostering platforms for artists of color, White’s creative journey paints an inspiring narrative. The artist, a blend of “Houston raised and Chicago made,” unveiled his most recent mural at the Broader Urban Involvement & Leadership Development’s (BUILD) community hub in Austin. Simultaneously, he orchestrated the “Something I Can Feel (SICF)” summer art experience, a July spectacle at The Shops at North Bridge on Michigan Avenue.
Balancing these endeavors proved both trying and beautiful, according to White, who praised the collaborative spirit of his team. The journey culminated in his largest mural to date and a notably impactful SICF. White acknowledges the support of a village that stood by him throughout the journey.
For White, collaboration is ingrained, a product of his background as a former college athlete and his subsequent transition after an injury during his junior year at Northwestern University. Moving from sports to academics, White secured degrees in communications. However, his creative itch persisted, leading him to experiment with oil and acrylic paints. His artworks shine a spotlight on Black subjects, a testament to his commitment to portraying the nuanced facets of Black humanity.
A self-taught artist, White’s canvas resonates with Chicago’s vibrant energy. The city’s art landscape, particularly for Black creators, is a nurturing environment where collaboration thrives. The inclusive community of artists in Chicago contributes to this familial atmosphere, engaging diverse backgrounds in artistic pursuits.
Pop-up exhibitions and immersive programming serve as White’s grassroots tools to impact his community. His initiatives extend beyond conventional art institutions, reaching people in new and engaging ways. While collaborating with esteemed galleries is part of his journey, White has confidently embraced his role as an artist and thought leader in the Chicago art scene.
Partnering with musicians such as trumpeter Sam Thousand and cellist Ayanna Williams, White infuses his exhibitions with an auditory dimension. Live music enriches viewers’ experiences, invoking a multisensory encounter. Drawing from his corporate background, White’s collaborations with brands like Lululemon and The Healing showcase his strategic prowess in leveraging his business acumen for artistic elevation.
At the SICF pop-up gallery, White not only displayed his own creations but also offered prominent space to nearly 20 artists of color, embracing the “breath of creativity.” By celebrating local talent, Dwight White II nourishes the artistic ecosystem, providing artists the opportunity to flourish and sustain themselves through their craft.
White’s journey isn’t just about art; it’s a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for community-building, empowerment, and the celebration of diverse voices.