For half a century, North Riverside Park Mall in neighboring North Riverside has served as a local hub for shopping, dining and employment for tens of thousands of residents across the near-west suburbs. 

And last Saturday, dozens of students from across Cicero District 99 got to be a part of both the 50th anniversary celebration and ring in the future of the mall with the unveiling of their selected artwork pieces, which will be displayed permanently in both the mall's food court and upper level concourse near JCPenney.

Prior to showcasing the winning art pieces, the event kicked off with a special village proclamation by North Riverside Mayor Joe Mengoni, followed by celebratory comments from both mall management, North Riverside village trustees and District 99 art teacher Tara Mangia. 

With a call to action for artwork earlier this winter, students created pieces showcasing both celebratory imagery of the mall itself, along with expressions of the many influences on their local lives. from cultural traditions, community icons and the diverse tapestry of their daily lives.

Now, mall patrons from across the region will have the opportunity to enjoy colorful displays of youth artwork, and Cicero students will have a sense of pride in knowing that their artful expressions are decorating spaces outside of town — and generating positive exposure for the District and its dedication to fine arts.