Founded with the intention to expand the dialogue between Chicago and the rest of the world, the residency invites visiting artists and curators from around the globe to become part of our community. These eight week residencies emphasize cross-cultural exchange and authentic dialogue and conversation surrounding international contemporary art practices, which stimulate Chicago’s own cultural community by infusing a range of artists and cultural producers into the city.
Our main criteria for inviting a visiting artist is their willingness to put curiosity and engagement first. We reach out to artists that work across media, aiming to represent a wide range of what an artistic practice can look like. Established in their own city, this residency provides the opportunity to experience and connect with the Chicago community where they have never been before. Often, their work links to work made locally in Chicago, as the social and political discourse generates endless possibilities for intersections to be found and enhanced.
While in residence, the staff work closely with the artist to tailor their visit to best engage and expand their research projects. Our Blackstone artist apartment is the home away from home for our visiting residents, complete with bicycle, on site laundry and walking distance from the Center.
CURRENT VISITING RESIDENTS
UPCOMING VISITING RESIDENTS
We supply what you need to help enrich your practice.
Resources available to residents include:
- Creative Innovation Exchange Membership
- One free class during each semester
- Studio/Classroom/Darkroom access
- Pond space for events/programs or program collaborations in other Chicago venues
- Studio visits with Chicago-based & International visiting curators and artists
- Studio visits with Exhibitions and Residency team, Allison Peters-Quinn and Mariela Acuña, as needed.
Artists have the opportunity to use the exhibition space directly outside of their studio door, post on social media and program workshops/performances/events in public program spaces at the Center.
Open studios are hosted every other month, as we invite the community into the Center to explore the exhibitions, education programs, and engage with the artists on site to increase transparency within the artistic process. Furthermore, artists are encouraged to host public programs and workshops, with the support of staff, to increase awareness and dialogue around their practice.
