Hannah Lee Dykstra
carl street in situ
joining the artist colony
living history
This year, our book A Total Work of Art - The Story of Edgar Miller was published by Edgar Miller Legacy. In Chicago’s roaring 20’s, Miller designed the initial artist colonies from Old Town’s artist colony movement, beginning with the Carl Street Studios. The Carl Street Studios are still a thriving and eclectic oasis. As the residency evolved I realized my primary goal was to experience this community and enjoy its residents, encounter the space as a live-work studio, and share its history.
Special Thanks to all the Carl Street residents ~~ balcony neighbors who said hi, those who invited me into their beautiful Edgar Miller & Jesus Torres designed spaces, and all who made this such a kind and welcoming place. Thanks especially to Graham, Fran, & family for inviting me into their iconic Sol Kogen Studio to share the book with the people continuing its legacy. Here’s to the beautiful conversations and memories! Cheers.
Map of Old Town’s Artist Colonies
During the residency, I created a map of the artist colonies in Old Town. This was for the express goal of distribution and exhibition in 2026’s book launch and exhibit.
Book Launch & Exhibition
As part of my time in the Carl Street studios I assisted with curation & design of the exhibit & book launch for A Total Work of Art. See photos of the opening below. Ongoing as of Summer & Fall of 2026, Handmade Histories | One Hundred Years of Old Town Art & Design features never before exhibited work by Edgar Miller, my illustrations & process from the graphic novel, and artwork from Old Town’s historic art scene.
Location: 1406 N. Sedgwick Street
Artist Bio
Hannah Lee Dykstra is a multidisciplinary artist, illustrator, and educator currently based in Guangzhou, China. Her recent work includes illustrating a graphic novel about Chicago artist Edgar Miller, A Total Work of Art (2026), published by the artist’s foundation. Dykstra works in a variety of traditional and new media, often incorporating historic print processes and traditional paper marbling into her compositions. Her practice integrates historical research, graphic design, and narrative illustration, often exploring the intersection of history, place, and creative freedom.
