Downers Grove Considers Public Art Program, Macho Man Statue Supporters Criticized

Village commissioners voice support for public art program, but criticize inaccurate social media post about Macho Man monument

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:03am

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A vibrant, silkscreen-style illustration of a wrestling championship belt repeated in a grid pattern, capturing the iconic imagery and pop culture significance of Randy 'Macho Man' Savage.A bold, colorful tribute to the legacy of professional wrestling icon Randy 'Macho Man' Savage, whose supporters are advocating for a public monument in his honor in Downers Grove.Downers Grove Today

The Downers Grove Village Council has taken steps to create a new public art program, tentatively hiring a firm to oversee the process. However, the council faced criticism from supporters of a proposed sculpture honoring former professional wrestler Randy 'Macho Man' Savage, a Downers Grove resident, after an inaccurate social media post claimed the council would not recommend building the statue.

Why it matters

The public art program is an effort by the village to bring more artwork and cultural attractions to the community. The Macho Man monument proposal has generated significant interest and support from local residents, so the council's handling of the issue is important for maintaining community trust and engagement.

The details

The council approved a contract with Sculpture Milwaukee to select and install public art in four initial locations, including Linda Kunze Plaza and three flexible amenity areas. While the Macho Man statue will not be included in these first installations, commissioners said there are 36 total sites identified for public art, and the Macho Man monument could be considered for other locations. The council faced criticism from supporters of the Macho Man statue who posted inaccurate information on social media, claiming the council would not recommend the statue. Council members expressed frustration with the misinformation and urged the supporters to 'get the facts straight' before making public statements.

  • The Downers Grove Village Council approved the public art program contract on Tuesday, April 18, 2026.
  • The inaccurate social media post by Macho Man monument supporters was published on Sunday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Downers Grove Village Council

The governing body of the Village of Downers Grove, Illinois that is overseeing the development of a new public art program for the community.

Sculpture Milwaukee

The firm tentatively hired by the Downers Grove Village Council to oversee the selection and installation of public art in the village.

Macho Monument Movement

A group of supporters advocating for the creation of a public monument honoring former professional wrestler Randy 'Macho Man' Savage, who was a resident of Downers Grove.

Kevin Larke

The president of the Macho Monument Movement who apologized for the inaccurate social media post made by the group.

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What they’re saying

“I think a great majority of us up here are supportive of celebrating our Downers Grove resident, and we have all made comments up here and with residents and one on one with each other.”

— Leslie Sadowski-Fugitt, Village Commissioner

“Please get your facts straight before you start putting stuff out on social media.”

— Chris Gilmartin, Village Commissioner

“Nice work guys, way to build friends and influence people.”

— Bob Barnett, Mayor

“Any and all discourse, if it was generated from us, despite our massive efforts to slow it down, I'd like to personally apologize to every single one of you.”

— Kevin Larke, President, Macho Monument Movement

What’s next

The Downers Grove Village Council will consider the placement of a Randy 'Macho Man' Savage monument in future phases of the public art program, beyond the initial four locations selected. The council has indicated the north train station plaza as a potential site that could be suitable for the Macho Man statue.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of clear communication and transparency when implementing new community programs. While the Downers Grove Village Council appears supportive of honoring Randy 'Macho Man' Savage, the inaccurate social media post by supporters created unnecessary tension and mistrust. Going forward, the council and Macho Monument Movement will need to work collaboratively to find an appropriate location and process for the statue that aligns with the broader public art program.