The City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) commissioned artist Juan Angel Chavez to create HYLE, a metaphorical structure that honors the spirit of activism and social change. The goal for this project was to reflect the community in which it lives and transform a site and a sculpture into a place where you have lunch, gather for evening concerts, or enjoy and revisit for generations to come.
Helios had the unique opportunity to work with artist Juan Angel Chavez and build a 4,538 SF public art commission in Chicago’s Near West Side, turning a previous gas station site into an architectural public plaza for the community to enjoy. Helios managed the demolition and excavation of the site, followed by installing the steel, structural steel, complex metal panel design, and associated site work. The 49-foot wide, 35-foot tall structure is supported by steel ribs, features perforated metal panels, and is reinforced by concrete footings. Exterior improvements included demolishing and salvaging the landscape, reinstalling stone, and installing planters.
