Chicago Artists’ Month is an amazing month-long celebration of Chicago artists, featuring tons of events that showcase the unique art created by hundreds of working artists, as well as the city’s art institutions and museums. 12 artists were highlighted this year as part of the 2011 theme, Artful Networks, a theme that intends to explore the communities that nurture and inspire Chicago artists and their work, as well as examine the influences from their social environments. The kick-off for CAM takes place on Friday September 30 at Ravenswood art Center. There will be food, music, and art at the event, as well as many opportunities to mingle with and meet the artists who are the reason for celebration during this month-long extravaganza.
We at CGN intend to keep you updated on the “don’t miss” events and exhibitions and help you sort through the extensive list of great options. The first week is packed with exhibition openings that will run throughout the month, as well as many other tempting activities. Other events and happenings are one-night-only, so be sure to give yourself some planning time.
October 1-8:
Open Studios:
Hundreds of artists are opening up their creative spaces to the public, and you are invited to come and see the artists in their unique work environments – an experience that allows viewers to gain an understanding of an artist’s creative and technical process, perhaps allowing for an explanation of the work itself. Chicago’s live/work situations for artists is unparalleled around the country, and this month you can really have an up-close view of why working in Chicago as an artist is so special.
On October 1st Cornelia Arts Building is opening their doors for an open house. CAB has provided space for local and international artists for the past 24 years, and currently houses over 40 studio spaces for local artists. Featuring a range of painting and drawing, sculpture, photography, printmaking, jewelry design and performance, you don’t want to miss out on visiting this extraordinary space.
Tours:
There are many art walks and tours taking place all year, but you don’t want to miss Chicago Gallery News’s two featured tours on October 8. Start at 11:00 am and hit up the River North Gallery Tour of four galleries. Then at 1:30 head on over to the West Loop Gallery Tour and visit four more galleries. Both are led by knowledgeable galleries staff and offer a great look at the works featured. Click here for information of the specific galleries visited and times.
Performances:
Also offered throughout the month is an array of presentations given by artists and art centers. The Red Thread Project is an amazing organization that connects communities, visibly and invisibly, through crocheted hats, which are then donated to different local charities. On October 2nd The Red Thread Project: Stitching Studio will be performed at North Branch Projects. Hundreds of adults and children crochet hats that are then connected on a knitted long red thread and they wear the hats in a performance/dance. The hats are then donated to local charities such as to assist cancer patients, foster children, the homeless, and the elderly. The Red Thread Project is a great example of art being used to raise awareness for those in need, while also fostering creativity. Don’t miss this touching and inspiring presentation. It will also be performed on October 11 at the same location.
These are just some of the great opportunities to meet local artists and get involved in the Chicago art scene. Be sure to check out opening exhibitions as well, and pleae stay tuned for weekly updates on “don’t miss” events here on the CGN blog.
The 16th Annual Chicago Artists Month is presented by The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture
Event Details:
• September 30: 7-11:00 pm Kick off Party at Ravenswood Art Center, 4011 N. Ravenswood Avenue
• October 1: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Open Studios: 25 Years of Art + Community Making, Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Avenue
• October 8: Chicago Gallery News Gallery Tours
River North: 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, Meet @ Starbucks, 750 N. Franklin
West Loop: 1:30 to 3:00 pm, Meet @ Ebersmoore Gallery, 213 N. Morgan
• October 2: The Red Thread Project: Stitching Studio. North Branch Projects, 3550 W. Lawrence Avenue
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