After more than three decades of calling Palos Heights home, resident Mary Beth Zwolfer shared her love of family, community and childhood memories through two large-scale works of public art unveiled June 12 at The Brookfield Shops in Brookfield.
The retired professional interior decorator participated in the Art Unveiling and Creative Showcase, where her paintings, “Home is Where Everyone is Celebrated” and “Dreams Begin at Home,” were introduced as part of the exhibit’s theme, “The Art of Home.”
Zwolfer, who has lived in Palos Heights for 33 years, said her roots in the community and her role as a grandmother played a significant role in shaping the artwork.
“My young grandchildren are the light that shines in my life, and they have always been the inspiration for my art,” Zwolfer said.
Although she had been drawing since childhood, painting was a much newer creative pursuit.
“I have always drawn since I was a child, but I had never painted until last year,” she said.
That artistic journey began in 2025 after her daughter forwarded a Facebook post seeking artists to create work centered on the theme of community. Zwolfer submitted a rendering and was selected to participate in Brookfield’s outdoor public art program.
The opportunity presented a challenge. Since the artwork would be displayed outdoors on a 4-foot wooden panel, she taught herself how to paint on wood using acrylic paints.
Her first public piece, representing the theme of community, remained on display at The Brookfield Shops while she created two new works this year.
The latest paintings reflected the warmth, comfort and acceptance she associates with home. Through colorful imagery and uplifting themes, Zwolfer sought to capture memories many people share from their childhoods and family lives.
“I hope that everyone who sees my art will fondly recall good memories of home life and happy childhood days,” she said.
Visitors gathered at The Brookfield Shops during the unveiling event, which also featured a special animal guest from Brookfield Zoo. The outdoor gallery remained open to the public year-round, allowing residents and visitors to view artwork created by local artists.
Zwolfer said she was grateful to have been selected for a second consecutive year.
“I am grateful to have been chosen to participate once again in The Brookfield Shops’ outdoor art exhibit,” she said.
Her story served as a reminder that new creative chapters can begin at any stage of life. After spending decades drawing and building a life in Palos Heights, a chance opportunity led her to discover a new artistic medium and share her work with the public.
