Go For It

Created with the support of neighbors in Chicago’s Pullman neighborhood, Go For It was never intended to become a defining project.

JB Daniel invited me to create a temporary installation for Market Square, then asked a simple question throughout the neighborhood: Would people be willing to help make it happen?

Some contributed financially. Others volunteered their time. Carpenters, artists, neighbors, and friends all played a role in bringing the project to life. The sculpture was built inside the historic Pullman factory and moved through the neighborhood before being installed in Market Square.

The piece was originally expected to remain in place for only a short time. Instead, it stayed for years and became part of the community around it.

Looking back, Go For It became a prototype for much of the public work that followed. It demonstrated the power of community participation, optimistic messaging, and large-scale text as a tool for creating connection in public space. More at You Are Beautiful.