Smile Politely

The La Casa Cultural Latina murals are returning to campus

Julie McClure

In 1974, artist Oscar Martinez and several students created elaborate wall murals in what was then the Latino Cultural Center at 510 E. Chalmers. They were created in protest of the possible closing of the center, and depict the struggle of Latino/a students. 

Students have continued to fight for the existence of the murals after La Casa Cultural Latina moved to their current home on Nevada Street, and again when the university was slated to demolish the building on Chalmers. You can read more about their history here. 

In 2016, conservation efforts began with removal of the murals from the Chalmers house, and their tranport to Parma Conservation in Chicago where they would be restored. Here’s a video from 2017 about that process:

Now, the murals are ready to return to the U of I campus. They will installed at Spurlock Museum and the Illini Union. There will be a reception on February 21st from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Spurlock. Those interested in attending should RSVP here.
 
Top image: Three walls and a ceiling are covered by colorful murals. There is a double door with a wooden frame and panes of glass in the center of one wall. Photo by Ben Wolosyzn from Illinois News Bureau. 

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