Try it, Make it, Share it.
History
Founded in 2004 by artists, educators, and activists, Chicago Art Department (CAD) grew out of a need to create space for artists to thrive in Chicago, fostering a spirit of community, collaboration, and inclusion for all individuals working toward civic change.
CAD is a community art center where artists have everything they need to step into their power and brilliance. CAD residents are activists, educators, and leaders—each at the fore of a radical reimagining of Chicago.
Since starting the Studio Residency Program CAD has worked with over 100 Resident artists, and through partnerships and exhibitions, has exhibited works by thousands of creatives at the intersection of art, justice, and activism from Chicago and beyond.
MISSION
CAD is an artist-run nonprofit with a mission to provide space and resources for civically-minded artists to grow their practice while questioning the city we live in.
CAD provides equitable and accessible opportunities for artistic development through subsidized Studio Residencies, Collective Learning Cohorts, and contemporary Exhibitions and Programs rooted in justice.
VISION
Chicago Art Department will serve as a gathering space for civically-focused artists, creative practitioners, and the larger justice community of Chicago, materializing an intersectional environment that bridges activism and contemporary art.
DEIA
Chicago Art Department is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. CAD is open to all artists, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, ability, gender identity, citizenship, geographic location, and income. Our residents, staff, volunteers, and board members reflect our diverse community and are led by a majority of BIPOC voices.
CAD participates in equity workshops and makes subsidized and fully-funded opportunities available to artists of color, non-binary people, and those with disabilities. CAD ascribes to a lateral organizational structure and adheres to WAGE guidelines when paying artists, partners, and collaborators.
