Art Speaks Louder Than Bans: A Bold New Mural on Chicago Ave Is Putting Humboldt Park's Love of Books on the Wall

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Humboldt Park · April 11, 2026

Humboldt Park has a new piece of public art that's already turning heads — and making a statement. A striking mural now graces the building at 2950 W. Chicago Ave., home of Humboldt Park Montessori, commissioned by building owner Hubie Greenwald and painted by New York-based traveling artists Menace and Resa. The mural depicts children reaching for books, with titles drawn directly from the American Library Association's lists of frequently challenged and banned books — including Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," Judy Blume's "Forever," and George Orwell's "1984."

Greenwald, president of Chicago-based Greenwald Co., was clear about the message: "Why would you deny any human the ability to read something, even if you don't agree with it?" The artists were equally passionate — Menace summed it up simply: "Knowledge should never be banned." Menace and Resa, who travel the country in an RV with a goal of painting murals in all 50 states, have a history in Humboldt Park — they previously painted icons including Jennifer Hudson, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks on the back of the same building.

It's the kind of art that only Humboldt Park could produce: bold, community-rooted, and unafraid. Swing by 2950 W. Chicago Ave. to see it for yourself, and show some love to Humboldt Park Montessori while you're in the neighborhood.

Sources:
1. https://chicago.suntimes.com/murals/2026/04/03/chicago-murals-menace-resa-humboldt-park-chatham