Cooper Dual Language Academy mural

From 1991–99, artist Francisco Mendoza led the mosaic mural program at Cooper Dual Language Academy (formerly Orozco Elementary of Fine Arts and Sciences) in Pilsen. The mosaics feature Mexican and Mexican Americans, from Aztec rulers to 20th century actors.

It builds on a long tradition of Mexican murals reinvigorated by artists like Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco. In the early 20th century, the Mexican government sponsored artists creating murals that reinforced the values of the Mexican Revolution. Eventually, artists used murals to express unapproved social and political messages, inspiring others around the world, particularly American Chicanx artists in the 1960s.

The flags in this section were designed by 6th and 7th graders from Philip D. Armour Elementary School in Bridgeport.

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