Photography Exhibit 'To Washington Park, With Love' Celebrates Community's Rich Cultural Heritage

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Washington Park · November 3, 2025

South Side photographer Rose Blouin's powerful work 'To Washington Park, With Love' is capturing attention across Chicago. Released by Haymarket Books, this collection showcases Blouin's remarkable black-and-white photography from the summer of 1987, when she visited Washington Park every weekend to document its vibrant community life.

The photographs celebrate Washington Park as 'a palette of Black life in Chicago' and document the neighborhood's cultural events, parades, family gatherings, competitive sports, and everyday moments of joy. Blouin captured thousands of portraits chronicling the park's 'doings and delights' that showcase why this 'righteous and gorgeous patch of green' continues to anchor the South Side.

Neighborhood residents and art enthusiasts are invited to view the collection at local galleries featuring Blouin's work throughout November. The Washington Park Field House will host a special reception on November 15th where community members can share their own park stories and participate in a community photography workshop inspired by Blouin's documentary approach. For more information on viewing times or to register for the workshop, contact the Washington Park Advisory Council.

Sources:
1. https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/11/06/column-washington-park-chicago-history-washington/