With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to the brilliant Don’t Fret.

Cooper, the Chicago street artist known as “Don’t Fret,” was born and raised in the Wicker Park neighborhood—a community that shaped his perspective and featured prominently in his work. A few days ago he passed away at the age of 36 after a long illness, as confirmed by his family. Deeply connected to Chicago’s working-class spirit and changing urban landscape, Cooper created street art that reflected a genuine affection for the people, culture, history, and places around him.

The news of Cooper’s passing is deeply saddening. His work as “Don’t Fret” brought both humor and sharp insight to the streets of Chicago and beyond. He had a distinct ability to capture the quirks and contradictions of daily life in ways that resonated widely, and his absence will be felt across the street art community. He was prolific in a number of cities, including in Brooklyn, where we first grew to appreciate his humor and his insight into the human condition.

We once wrote, “Don’t Fret… knows how to depict us in all our eclectic and imperfect wonder without passing judgment but causing a cryptic cackle of recognition when you run into him.” His observations were pointed without being cruel, and his portraits often walked the line between satire and affection. May his legacy inform and inspire both artists and those who encountered his work in public spaces.

Following is a collection of Don’t Fret pieces as shot by photographer Jaime Rojo.

Dont Fret BK Studio Visit/BedStuy Art Residency: Sausages, Lotto Cards, and “Springfield, Springfield!” Click HERE

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