I interviewed Michael and Deborah Barnum in November of 2014. Michael is lifelong Chicago resident and Deborah grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. They have lived in their home in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood for 38 years. Michael had always wanted to living in Beverly. After looking at thirty houses, Deborah says that she knew immediately that their home was the one for them, when she saw the beautiful arched openings that lead into the front room and dining room.

The Barnums were emphatic that their is nothing they would change about their neighborhood. Their street in particular means a lot to them. The way in which Michael and Deborah described their street felt special, and made me want to depict a portion of that street in the painting. The painting includes the Barnum’s home, as well as the homes on either side of the them. Deborah says that in particular, she likes the street in the winter. Thanks for stopping by!

Special thanks to Stefano Vita for use of his music in the audio recording.