College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, has launched a free outdoor art exhibition titled "Walking with Giants" that features 10 larger-than-life silhouette paintings of iconic American cultural figures. The exhibition, running through October 18, includes portraits of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Aretha Franklin, Norman Rockwell, Georgia O'Keeffe, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, John Williams, and Bob Fosse. Created by local artists Rich Lo and Judith Mayer, the 7- to 10-foot-tall silhouettes are installed across the campus grounds, with maps guiding visitors to each piece. The exhibition is presented by the McAninch Arts Center, Cleve Carney Museum of Art, and the College of DuPage Foundation, and ties into the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding.
The exhibition matters because it celebrates America's cultural contributions through accessible, public art that invites community engagement. By featuring a diverse range of artists from music, theater, dance, and visual arts, "Walking with Giants" highlights how innovation and creativity have shaped American identity. The free, outdoor format allows visitors to experience art at any time, fostering broader appreciation for the arts. Additionally, the exhibition complements other free summer programming at the college, such as the photography exhibit "Saturday Man," creating a cultural hub that connects the campus with the surrounding community.