CHICAGO (April 16, 2021) – Chicago Fire FC has partnered with local Chicago street artist Joseph Perez, better known as Sentrock, to create a collection that includes soccer balls designed exclusively for the Club’s PLAYS program, a signed limited-edition silkscreen, the flag for partners with season tickets and a series of apparel to be released later.
For the collection’s debut, the Fire and Sentrock distributed 1,000 exclusively designed soccer balls to the 40 Chicago Public Schools that are partners in the Chicago Fire Foundation’s PLAYS program (Participate, Learn, Achieve, Youth, Soccer).
“I am very proud to partner with the Chicago Fire and the Chicago Fire Foundation for this collection,” said Sentrock. “What the Club is doing in our communities is really important, so designing a soccer ball for the students of the Chicago Public Schools is special because it will reach directly to students. I hope the design inspires children to share their voice and express themselves, whether through art or on the football field. ”
Sentrock’s signature bird mask on a human figure, his most recognizable statement, appears prominently on the ball. He describes his bird mask as analogous to humanity: a person who is able to find or escape his freedom by placing it in a different reality. The self-taught artist chose a red, blue and orange color palette, adding the PLAYS logo, plus custom artwork inspired by the show.
Sentrock’s early work grew out of writing graffiti in Mexican American neighborhoods. Through her work, she has become a catalyst for her community. Her work presents a background of hope, freedom and expression, while at the same time summarizing her background, history, education, as well as empathy and compassion for her community.
A total of 200 limited edition prints will be available to purchase next week. The limited edition print includes several exclusive Sentrock-designed characters, Soldier Field, the L-train, and the words “HOME” hidden on the front of the print. All proceeds from the sale of the screenprints will benefit the Chicago Fire Foundation.
In addition, all fans attending the Home Opening Game on Saturday, April 17 will have the opportunity to receive an exclusive Sentrock-designed flag, which will be one of three flags given to fans as gifts. Fans are asked to wave their flags during the procession of the players, after the Fire’s goals and at the final whistle when the Fire secures all three points.
Sentrock currently serves as a member of the Stand for Chicago Council, a group of six Chicagoans who support the development of the club’s new primary crest.
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