Brookfield Shops - Cook County Arts

Grantee Spotlight: Art pieces and stage now part of Brookfield Shops

Last October, community members and local leaders gathered at Brookfield Shops at Progress Park to celebrate a community project supported by a 2025 Cook County Arts Creative Placemaking grant.

In its inaugural season in 2025, the Shops featured six entrepreneurs working out of small, cottage-like storefronts and quickly became a weekend destination for local shoppers. With support from Cook County Arts, the site now features new artist-made panels, upgraded landscaping and a small outdoor stage set to open for performances in spring 2026.

Organizers also plan to build a portable stage to be used for larger performances and street events.

“By activating the Brookfield Shops space through art, we’re not only adding beauty; we’re creating connection, an opportunity for artists to shine, and for residents to experience something vibrant and meaningful,” said Brookfield Village Manager Tim Wiberg.

One of the featured artists is Vivian Piña, an illustrator whose panel pays tribute to Kiwanis Park, a place she visited throughout her childhood in Brookfield. She created the artwork digitally before painting much of it sideways in her attic during her daughters’ nap times since it was too tall to paint vertically.

“I painted Kiwanis Park because it was my favorite place growing up,” Piña shared. “I want my daughters to have a public space where children are seen, respected, and able to play and learn together.”

The Brookfield Shops allow entrepreneurs to launch and grow their individual businesses in a supportive, collaborative community. Participants are selected by a community panel of residents, business owners, and local organization leaders.

More artists may apply to be part of Brookfield Shops in 2026, with renderings due March 20. The themes are “Art of Home” and “Stories from Brookfield.”

In sync with Cook County Arts’ mission, Brookfield Shops has become a vibrant, welcoming public space where people can gather, explore, and feel connected to their community.