WeGo Full Steam Ahead
“WeGo Full Steam Ahead” A Public Art Celebration of West Chicago’s Railroad Legacy
Presented by: People Made Visible | The West Chicago Parks Foundation | West Chicago City Museum | West Chicago Public Library District in collaboration with We Go Together for Kids, the City of West Chicago and Cultural Arts Commission
WeGo Full Steam Ahead will….
•Revitalize Public Spaces: Transform downtown into an outdoor gallery to draw visitors and support local businesses.
•Celebrate Local Artists & Diversity: Each of the sculptures will feature unique designs by area artists from diverse backgrounds.
•Honor Railroad History: West Chicago was the first Illinois community created by the railroad.
•Educate & Engage: QR codes on each sculpture will link to museum-hosted digital exhibits; activities include artist talks, walking tours, and library programs.
WeGo Full Steam Ahead
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WeGo Full Steam Ahead *
Project Overview:
" WeGo Full Steam Ahead " is a public art initiative that will place artistically painted train sculptures throughout West Chicago to celebrate the community's railroad heritage and cultural diversity. Launching in May 2026, this project aligns with America’s 250th anniversary and will promote pride, tourism, and engagement.
2026 Project Features:
• 8 Large Painted Train Sculptures with benches in downtown public spaces
• 10 Mini 3D Printed Trains placed inside downtown businesses to encourage foot traffic
• Blooming Fest Unveiling Event (May 2026)
• Programs & Events: School tours, library workshops, museum storytelling, and artist-led talks.
Timeline:
• Fall 2025: Artist selection
• Winter–Spring 2026: Painting & preparation
• May–Oct 2026: Downtown installation & programming
• 2027 Expansion: Additional trains in parks and public spaces beyond downtown West Chicago
Our Sponsors
Ball Seed
WeGo Full Steam Ahead’s Premire Sponsor
Become a Featured Artist
We are looking for local artist to showcase your work to the community through the train installations.
I you are interested in becoming a featured artist please send a completed portfolio of your past works and potential ideas to the following email.
Community
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Heritage
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Education
· Tourism ·
Community · Art · Heritage · History · Education · Tourism ·
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Inventive · Progressive · Equitable ·
Follow the journey…
Notes from our journal
