The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago has partnered with local Latina artist Esperanza Rosas, widely known by her artist name Runsy, to unveil an exclusive merchandise collection in honor of the Sueños Music Festival. The collaboration, featuring a limited-edition t-shirt, blends the dynamic culture of the festival with the rich artistic heritage of Chicago.
A Creative Intersection of Art and Culture
In an inspired move that underscores both artistic innovation and cultural pride, MCA Chicago and Runsy have joined forces to present a uniquely designed t-shirt. The artwork reflects the vibrancy and diversity that characterize both the museum and the Sueños Festival. Runsy, known for her bold, emotive illustrations, incorporates her signature character into the design alongside symbolic imagery such as a Ferris wheel and stylized faces, all brimming with emotion and festivity.
The visual language draws influence from the Chicano cultural phrase “Smile Now, Cry Later,” symbolizing the balance of joy and struggle. This motif is deeply resonant for Runsy, who often blends themes of personal growth, cultural identity, and resilience in her work.
She shared that the concept behind Sueños – dreams – mirrors her own artistic path. “It’s about following your dreams and showing others who look like me that with hard work, a good heart, perseverance, and the love of my community, anything is possible,” she explained. Her words echo the mission of both the museum and the festival: to celebrate identity, passion, and community.
In-Store Launch and Community Engagement
To mark the launch, MCA Chicago is hosting a special in-store event where attendees will have the opportunity to meet Runsy in person and purchase the exclusive merchandise. Scheduled for May 20, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the event promises an intimate experience where fans can learn more about the creative process behind the artwork and engage with the artist directly.
Attendees will also receive a limited-edition postcard featuring a complementary design by Runsy, available only during the event. This personal touch is intended to foster a stronger connection between the art, the artist, and the community she represents.
The t-shirt will remain available at the MCA Store following the event while supplies last, serving as a wearable memento of both the festival and the museum’s commitment to supporting local talent.
Spotlight on Sueños Music Festival
The Sueños Music Festival, returning to Grant Park on May 24–25, 2025, is a celebration of Latin music, culture, and heritage. With performances from leading Latin artists, interactive art installations, and community-driven initiatives, it has quickly become one of Chicago’s most anticipated summer events.
This year’s partnership with MCA adds an artistic dimension to the festival’s offering, creating a bridge between visual art and musical performance. The collaboration underscores a shared mission of inclusivity and cultural celebration, amplifying Latin voices in both the art and entertainment spheres.
The Artist Behind the Vision
Esperanza Rosas, better known as Runsy, is a multidisciplinary artist hailing from Chicago’s South Side. Her vibrant and emotive works have garnered attention for their raw honesty and cultural depth. As a first-generation Mexican-American, Runsy draws heavily on her heritage, reflecting the dualities of identity and experience through a mix of digital and traditional media.
Over the years, she has built a strong following both locally and nationally, admired for her community-focused art that bridges personal narrative with collective memory. This latest partnership with MCA Chicago cements her position as one of the city’s rising artistic voices.
