Village Launches 'I Love Shorewood' Public Art Event Wednesday

Public art will soon be on display in Shorewood, with 35 custom-decorated, super-sized hearts accenting its sidewalks.

Coined "I Love Shorewood," the event will fully kick off Wednesday featuring a collection of hearts created by local artists on display until Sept. 1. The hearts can be found in front of several businesses, the post office, , , and the .

The village's Marketing Committee, which has organized the event, set up a walking and/or biking tour of the village to make it easy to view all 35 hearts. Event programs are available at any of the participating sponsor locations, Village Hall and the library.

After the event wraps up, organizers will hold a public auction allowing the public to purchase the hearts Sept. 16 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at , 3565 N. Morris Blvd. All proceeds from the sale of the hearts will benefit the Shorewood Foundation, a local charitable, non-profit organization. Additionally, bid on a heart prior to the auction at shorewoodtoday.com.

Organizers are also offering a free drawing to enter to win a specially selected heart form. Sign up at any participating sponsor location (18 years or older, one entry per person). 

Various businesses and community groups are sponsoring the display of a heart at their location. Major co-sponsors of the event are the Shorewood Foundation and the Mandel Group Inc. Additional funding is being provided by the Shorewood Men's Club.

Stay tuned to Patch for a special online contest, where readers can vote for their favorite heart.