South Side Community Art Center

Black Art Rising: The Art Sale
2025-08-15 13:00 - 2025-08-17 16:00 (America/Chicago) | South Side Community Art Center, 3831 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60653, United States
COLLECT THE LEGACY OF SSCAC
Honoring Our Legacy | Building Our Future

Friday, August 15: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, August 16: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, August 17: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
As we make room for our future, take a piece of our past home. From original artwork and archival prints to books, posters, studio supplies, and rare objects from past exhibitions, Black Art Rising: The Art Sale offers a rare opportunity to take home a piece of the Center’s living history. This also includes exhibition treasures and supplies that have supported decades of creativity at 3831 S. Michigan Ave.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply want to bring a story home, each piece has been priced with care and intention. Some works were made within these walls. Others have lived here for years. All carry the spirit of Black art on the South Side.
This sale also marks a transition. As we prepare for the renovation and expansion of our historic landmark building, every purchase fuels the future through our Black Art Rising Capital Campaign.
Come browse, celebrate, and collect. Let’s make space together for what’s next.
Save the Date!

SSCAC Salvage Day: Artist Appreciation & Moving Giveaway
2025-09-27 11:00 - 16:00 | South Side Community Art Center, 3831 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60653, United States
Take What You Can

Saturday, September 27 from 11 AM – 4 PM

On Saturday, September 27 from 11–4 PM, SSCAC will open its doors one last time before construction begins — inviting our artist community to explore and collect pieces and materials that can support their practices, while also taking home a piece of SSCAC’s history.
As we clear the building for the future, we’re giving back to the artists and our community who have carried SSCAC for 85 years. Materials and supplies will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
This is the only opportunity to visit before SSCAC closes for renovation. No follow-up dates, no return visits — just one afternoon to walk through and take part in this historic moment.
Salvage what you can before we break ground!

_________________________________________

Frequently asked questions

What are we giving away?
Furniture, studio (art) supplies, books, and other items that once called the Center home.
Is there a cost?
Everything is free — we’d rather it be reused than thrown away.
Do I need to RSVP?
RSVPs are preferred, however no one will be turned away.
How will items be distributed?
First-come, first-served.
Will SSCAC provide packaging, labor or holds?
We’re not able to provide packing, lifting, or holds — please plan to bring what you need to move items yourself.
What if something is no longer available?
Staff will let you know on site.

A CELEBRATION OF ARTISTS, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE - SSCAC 85TH ANNIVERSARY
2025-10-16 17:00 - 21:00 | Haven Entertainment Center, 932 E 43rd St, Chicago, IL, 60653, United States
Celebrate art, culture & community with delectable cuisine, live art, soulful music & more—support our $100K Community Renovation Fund!

_________________________________

Honoring Our Legacy | Building Our Future

Join the South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC) as we celebrate 85 years of artistic brilliance, community impact, and cultural preservation. Our 85th Anniversary Celebration is more than an evening of festivities—it is a powerful tribute to our legacy and a critical step toward our future.
Founded in 1940, SSCAC is the nation’s only remaining WPA-era Black art center, and for 85 years, we have been a cornerstone of creativity in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. As we commemorate this historic milestone, we also look forward with purpose through our Capital Campaign to renovate, preserve, and expand our beloved center.
Proceeds to Benefit the Community Renovation Fund
A portion of all proceeds from this year’s celebration will support our Community Renovation Fund, a vital part of our capital campaign. These funds will help us restore our historic facility, expand our programming space, and ensure future generations of artists have a place to thrive. Our event fundraising goal is to raise $100,000 to support our $200,000 Community Renovation Fund. This fund is a vital part of our overall $18 million dollar Black Art Rising Campaign.
Why Your Support Matters
Your presence and partnership are essential. Whether through purchasing a ticket or becoming a valued event partner, you are investing in the cultural future of Chicago. Your contribution empowers us to:

Preserve an irreplaceable landmark of Black history and artistry
Expand access to art education, exhibitions, and community engagement
Create a lasting space for artists to grow, express, and lead

Event Highlights

Culinary Experiences from Local Chefs
Live Artist Renderings
SSCAC Featured Collection on Display
Silent Auction Featuring Art, Luxury Trips, Entertainment, and Experiences
Recognition of Cultural Leaders & Legacy Honorees

Featuring 6 Live Artists

Six of Chicago’s very own artists will create new work live during SSCAC’s 85th Anniversary Celebration — a testament to the legacy and future of Black art on the South Side.

Martha A. Wade · Dana Todd Pope · Paul Branton · Kiarah Jackson · Kudzai B. Mutasa · Jess Patterson

Their work honors the past while shaping what’s next, reminding us why SSCAC has been a cultural home for 85 years and counting.

Join Us in Celebrating 85 Years of Creativity and Community
Together, let’s honor the artists, uplift our community, and preserve the culture that defines us.
_______________________

_______________________

Thanks to Our Sponsors

Margaret Burroughs Sponsor:

Robert S. Guttman Family Charitable Fund

Archibald Motley Sponsor
Bill Michel and Mark Botelho
Bryan Perry
Judy Matthews

In-Kind Sponsors:
Pigment International
William Bigham Gallery
Strategic Events Solutions, Inc.
