AVONDALE — A colorful locker installed on an Avondale corner has become a catalyst for creating community, sharing resources and uplifting local artists.

The Chicago Art Locker at Roscoe Street and Kildare Avenue has quickly become a popular pit stop for neighbors and their pups, artists from the suburbs and Indiana and children eager to find surprises tucked inside the locker’s six cubbies.

Installed by neighbor and artist Shea Michals and her father over Memorial Day weekend, the art locker concept is similar to little free libraries and other free art boxes found around the city. People can take and leave art to showcase and support local makers, create friendships, boost mental health and increase art access, Michals said.

“It kind of combats depression,” Michals said. “I really lov

See Full Page