How Many Of These Chicago Landmarks Do You Know?

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jun 15, 2016 2:54PM

Pop quiz, Chicago. We all talk a good civic-pride game, but this nifty illustration of local architectural landmarks, by local duo Cape Horn Illustration, asks you to walk the walk. How many of these iconic structures can you name? Answers below. (Not really. You can figure it out.)

These sorts of illustrations pop up from time to time, but we're particularly fond of this one. There's the clean, crisp style, plus it's very neighborhood-focused, covering a large cross-section of the city with nary a tourist trap in sight. (Sorry, Cloud Gate.)

"For me, Chicago is my inspiration," Cape Horn artist Phil Thompson told Chicagoist. "The built environment in particular. I just wanted to highlight some representative landmarks of the beloved neighborhoods of the city. Whether it's homes or buildings or maps, I really love place. And illustration is great for honoring that."

Thompson started the project by looking at selections recommended by Choose Chicago, but wanted to spin out, beyond the usual suspects. The pink Edgewater Beach Apartments, the metal Puerto Rican flag over Humboldt Park's Paseo Boricua and the South Shore Cultural Center are just a few of the landmarks you can spy in the illustration.

"The aim is to represent a variety of neighborhoods. Spotlight some places that don't always get a lot of attention," he said.

The print is available to purchase through Cape Horn's website, along with other cool, Chicago-centric work and custom-made illustrations for homeowners and business owners.