Created by BarkleyOKRP's Black Employee Resource Group (The HUB) alongside Group Creative Director Rony Castor and Creative Director George Chapman Jr., "Protect Our Piece" is a contemporary fiber art installation featuring an iconic plastic-covered living room couch. Handcrafted over 100 hours by Chicago textile artist Chelsea B., the sofa showcases 19 custom crochet and knitted elements celebrating Black culture, including HBCUs, Black beauty, Juneteenth, AAVE, and banned books. Debuting at the 2026 Chicago Juneteenth Freedom Market, the interactive artwork functions as an evolving archive where visitors are invited to sit, reflect, and submit their own ideas for future stitched additions.

Read the full story on Art Business News.