Day 9: Emerald Art Gallery presents Esmeralda Ruiz

I discovered Ruiz during one of Chicago’s art festivals when I first moved to the city. I saw myself in her work and when posting to social, a friend commented, “It’s you.” I cried.

From the artist: “Showing the city… sets the stage for where these women live, but it doesn't define them. That is why they are scaled to look bigger than the city. These women will work, live, fall in love, and thrive in these cities, but they are unique individuals. Their space and occupation will not give them an identity. Roles, ideals, or expectations will not limit them from growing or expressing themselves as they see fit.”