Artist Spotlight

4 Artists Living in Chicago

These four artists living in Chicago create art in four different ways. Given their unique life experiences and artistic journeys, we’d expect nothing less! From bold and urban to eclectic and energizing, we’re looking at how these artists are influenced, or not, by residing in the Windy City.

With such magnificent skyscrapers, delicious deep dish pizza, and incredible history, Chicago is the third largest city in the United States. It makes sense that artists calling this famous place home would be inspired by their environment. While we often see Chicago artwork highlighting the well-known Bean structure or showing off Wrigley Field, artists can find inspiration in a variety of places. Sometimes, where you’re from drives what you create, but that’s not always the case.

From wildlife to dance parties, the work from these artists can bring peaceful serenity, joyful vibrancy, and more types of vibes to your space. Whether you prefer detailed photography or street art portraits, keep scrolling to find a new favorite artist.

1. Raymond Kunst  

Deconstructing scenes to its smallest parts, focusing on the detail, Raymond Kunst’s photographs feature architectural city views. Honing in on the famous skyscrapers and popular establishments, he spends his time roaming the streets of Chicago looking for unique and unusual settings. Whether it’s the reflective structures of well-known hotels like the Congress Plaza, or iconic bars like Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, we love the way we can escape into iconic views of the Windy City.

From the legendary Chicago Theater sign to a refreshing look at the Chicago river, we think his photography can be a great way to bring bold urban energy to your space.

Click here to see all of Raymond Kunst’s artwork available on iCanvas.


2. Edo  

Creating a narrative that speaks to specific stories from his journey through life, Edo’s digital creations feature portraits of famous musicians and other male subjects. With elements of street fashion and colorful street art designs, we can see the nods of city style inspiration taken from his background in the south side of Chicago. No matter if it’s rap legends like Drake or prominent historical figures like Malcolm X, we’re pulled into incredible visual stories through eye-catching lines and patterns.

From a pink-toned Nirvana portrait to a multi-hued Joe Freshgoods, we think his artwork can be an exciting way to bring eclectic and energizing vibes to your space.

Click here to see all of Edo’s artwork available on iCanvas.


3. Sandra Rust 

Sandra Rust’s photographs feature beautiful scenes of nature and wildlife. With no obvious Chicago influence seen in her work, we’re instead pulled into quite the opposite – fresh outdoor scenery, blooming trees, delightful creatures, and mesmerizing sunsets. Giving us a breath of fresh air through her photos, we love how she captures moments in the wild.

From horses running through the grass to a great horned owl in a tree, we think her artwork can be a wonderful way to add peaceful and serene vibes to your space. If her photography looks familiar, you may have seen her work published by the World Wildlife Fund and the National Wildlife Federation.

Click here to see all of Sandra Rust’s artwork available on iCanvas.


4. Dan Nelson 

Influenced by mid-century architecture, David Hockney, Palm Springs and the relationship between people and their pets, Dan Nelson’s paintings feature people, architecture, and dogs. Rather than diving into Chicago subjects, he hones in on tropical themes with palm trees, poolside scenes, and California settings. From skateboard tricks to carefree dance parties, we can’t help but feel cheerful when looking at his sunny scenes.

From tossing a beach ball with pups by the water to spending time with poodles outside the house, we think his artwork can be a fun way to add vibrant and joyful energy to your space.

Click here to see all of Dan Nelson’s artwork available on iCanvas.


Want to see even more? Click here to check out all the artists available on iCanvas, or click here if you’re interested in seeing more art featuring Chicago.

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