These Chicago illustrators perfectly capture what life is like right now

Life in Chicago looks a bit different these days, and some of the city's most talented artists are capturing that energy in their work. From mask-covered faces and friendly reminders to wash your hands to social commentary about shuttered venues, these digital masterpieces make us feel more connected than ever before—even if we can't leave the house.

Chicago-based artist Evan Miller, who goes by EvanArt when it comes to his creative work, says a series he created last year has taken on an eerie new meaning. "Twenty-Second City" depicts familiar Chicago sights—like concert venue Lincoln Hall shown above—crawling with masked humans and covered in plant life that looks like it was pulled straight from a sci-fi flick.

"Went I started the series in 2019, I wanted to depict the people of Chicago overcoming and adapting to even the most transformative and bizarre of disasters—invasive ecosystems, toxic air, you name it," Miller says. "I never expected that the subject matter of my work would hit so close to home, but I hope people can take a hopeful and optimistic message from it. No matter what the world throws at us, we're always going to find a way to keep moving on."

Throughout the month of April, Miller will donate all proceeds from his work to Chicago businesses that are being hit hard by the stay-at-home order. Take a look at the state of Chicago through the eyes of its artists—and if you like what you see, show them some support with a follow or a purchase.

Sentrock

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Ryan Duggan

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Laura Gomez

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Wasted Talent Social Club

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Olivia Olsen

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Eddie Fieg

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Derek Erdman

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CHema Skandal

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Belinda Kou

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Ray Kelley

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JC Rivera

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EvanArt

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Jay Ryan (The Bird Machine)

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Kowal Creative

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Josie Adams

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