When Josh Grubbs, owner of Black Lung Brewing, approached me about completing this mural, it was an immediate and whole-hearted “YES!”.

This is Black Lung’s third location in Lake County.

In 2023, I completed the mural for the original tap room in Round Lake Beach, on Rt 83.

Then in 2024, the Fox Lake location received a simpler treatment.

Each time, Josh had a clear vision for the vibe and elements. Working together over the years, we had a mutual trust.

For this design, I wanted to balance the necessity of having a bold, cohesive graphic while also breaking down the sections into their individual uses.

I wanted patrons to feel a welcoming sense of space when they first walk in. Then to feel drawn in to explore the smaller details during their experience.

Entertainment Corner

The far left side of the restaurant is where performers will be situated. Josh has a reputation in the community as a supporter of the arts. He frequently hosts local music, open mics, Trivia, Karoake and other good times.

I wanted this portion to stand alone as a backdrop for the brave locals who share their hearts on this “stage”.

The colors are a muted, earth-tone rainbow hinting at their beer-brewing related graphics.

The green is behind the hops vines, and the wheat colors are behind the barley stalks.

(This was also an element we echoed from the Rt 83 mural)

And of course, the 4 foot tall Black Lung Brewing front and center.

When patrons post images on social media of the performers on stage, there will be no doubt where to head to join the fun!

The Brewing Schematic

In the Rt 83 tap-room, a primary element was education of the brewing process for the consumer.

Knowing what steps go into creating high quality, unique beer adds a sense of appreciation and engagement.

Josh wanted to bring the same concept into the Grayslake brewery.

This is a place where servers and beertenders can point to explain what makes each of Black Lung’s brews special, whether it’s due to Lake Michigan water or ingredients added to the mash.

While the process has been simplified for stylistic reasons, the ubiquitous elements are represented.

Fig 1. Mill - The process begins by milling high-quality grains, which vary in type and preparation.

Fig 2. Mash - These grains are then heated in water, using various times and temperatures for different effects.

Fig 3. Boil - Boil that sucker. Sometimes hops are added at different parts of this stage.

Fig 4. Cool -The temperature is reduced. There are various methods, but here it is represented by an immersion chiller.

Fig 5. Ferment - Now we give it life. The addition of yeast (represented by eyes) is what converts the sugars into alcohol. What we came for!

Ask your server how the beer in your hand was created uniquely through the steps in this process!

(And while you enjoy your brew, see if you can find all of the hidden phrases in the mural. These are core beliefs and mottos of the whole Black Lung crew.)

The Legend of Sylvie

The mural was complete only with the addition of Sylvie.

If you’ve ever driven down Rt 83 in Round Lake Beach, you’ll recognize this iconic black and white 1998 Chevrolet Silverado.

Before Black Lung Brewing had a brick and mortar location, Sylvie was the vehicle that delivered the beer.

But her story doesn’t end there.

Josh or his wife, Sarah, can tell you this story over a pint.

Just know it involves teenage hearbreak, family heirlooms and a mischievous ghost.

Joy in a Glass

The process isn’t complete until Fig 6. - ENJOY!

WIthout you, the beer drinker, the process is pointless.

So please, ENJOY!

Home-town Love

Finally, on the far right end of the mural, is an homage to Black Lung’s roots.

Josh lives in Grayslake, and this is where Black Lung beer was first brewed!

The iconic Grayslake smoke-stack sits behind the well-known building at 2 S Lake street, where Black Lung has come full circle and settled at home.

Completing this mural for the team at Black Lung was an honor and a lot of fun.

To find out more about making your home or business space really stand out with a custom mural, please reach out to Holly.

Prost!