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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250329T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250329T153000
DTSTAMP:20260805T183742Z
CREATED:20250322T163859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T183742Z
UID:10814-1743246000-1743262200@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:Black Women Collectors Shaping Cultural Heritage in Chicago Symposium
DESCRIPTION:Join us for Beyond Frames Symposium: Black Women Collectors Shaping Cultural Heritage in Chicago!\n  \n\n\nCollecting is an act of care\, a means of shaping history\, and a declaration of presence. Beyond Frames: Celebrating and Empowering Black Women Art Collectors is a one-day gathering designed to inspire and equip Black women with the resources\, knowledge\, and strategies to build and sustain meaningful art collections. \n\n\nHeld in alignment with the Beyond Frames exhibition\, this symposium brings together collectors\, artists\, scholars\, and cultural leaders to explore the impact of Black women in shaping Chicago’s art landscape. Through a keynote address\, panel discussions\, and a hands-on writing workshop\, we will examine themes of stewardship\, legacy\, relationship-building\, and the evolving role of collecting in Black cultural preservation. \n\n\n\nProgram Highlights: \n\nKeynote Address – The Power of Collecting\, The Responsibility of Remembering by Christina Steed\nPanel Discussions – Exploring the role of collecting in cultural preservation\, personal storytelling\, and market navigation\nWriting Workshop – Collecting as Legacy with Rhonda Wheatley\nCommunity Engagement – A space to connect with fellow collectors\, artists\, and cultural leaders\n\n\nBeyond Frames celebrates the powerful voices of Black women in Chicago who are at the forefront of collecting art from across the African diaspora\, shaping and preserving Black cultural heritage. Featuring works from fifteen local collections\, this exhibition explores the personal motivations and evolving journeys of each collector. It highlights the essential role these collections play in elevating Black artists\, broadening access to African American art\, and inspiring future generations of Black art collectors. By showcasing their unique contributions\, Beyond Frames emphasizes the lasting impact of these collections on national conversations about Black art\, culture\, and legacy. \n\n\nExhibition curated by Bethany Hill and rachel dukes. \n\n\n\nImage Credit: I Look for You\, 2019\, relief printing\, stipple pencil\, acrylic\, lithography\, liquid gold leaf\, decorative papers\, fabric\, hand stitching\, 15” x 20” (framed). From the collection of Patricia Andrews-Keenan. \nReserve a spot
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/black-women-collectors-shaping-cultural-heritage-in-chicago-symposium/
LOCATION:South Side Community Art Center\, 3831 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, IL\, 60653\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Beyond-Frames-1.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250815T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250817T160000
DTSTAMP:20250801T161000Z
CREATED:20250724T204657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T161000Z
UID:10914-1755262800-1755446400@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:Black Art Rising: The Art Sale
DESCRIPTION:COLLECT THE LEGACY OF SSCAC\nHonoring Our Legacy | Building Our Future\n\nFriday\, August 15: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM\nSaturday\, August 16: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM\nSunday\, August 17: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \nAs 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. \nWhether 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. \nThis 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. \nCome browse\, celebrate\, and collect. Let’s make space together for what’s next. \nSave the Date!
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/black-art-rising-the-art-sale/
LOCATION:South Side Community Art Center\, 3831 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, IL\, 60653\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Art-Sale-Thumbnail.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250927T160000
DTSTAMP:20250919T203214Z
CREATED:20250919T200909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T203214Z
UID:10970-1758970800-1758988800@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:SSCAC Salvage Day: Artist Appreciation & Moving Giveaway
DESCRIPTION:Take What You Can\n  \nSaturday\, September 27 from 11 AM – 4 PM\n  \nOn 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. \nAs 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. \nThis 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. \nSalvage what you can before we break ground! \n\n_________________________________________ \n\nFrequently asked questions\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat are we giving away? \nFurniture\, studio (art) supplies\, books\, and other items that once called the Center home. \nIs there a cost? \nEverything is free — we’d rather it be reused than thrown away. \nDo I need to RSVP? \nRSVPs are preferred\, however no one will be turned away. \nHow will items be distributed? \nFirst-come\, first-served. \nWill SSCAC provide packaging\, labor or holds? \nWe’re not able to provide packing\, lifting\, or holds — please plan to bring what you need to move items yourself. \nWhat if something is no longer available? \nStaff will let you know on site.
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/sscac-salvage-day-artist-appreciation-moving-giveaway/
LOCATION:South Side Community Art Center\, 3831 S Michigan Ave\, Chicago\, IL\, 60653\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Salvage-Day-Banner.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251016T210000
DTSTAMP:20251016T192618Z
CREATED:20250705T185625Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T192618Z
UID:10890-1760634000-1760648400@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:A CELEBRATION OF ARTISTS\, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE - SSCAC 85TH ANNIVERSARY
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate art\, culture & community with delectable cuisine\, live art\, soulful music & more—support our $100K Community Renovation Fund! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n_________________________________\n\n\n\nHonoring Our Legacy | Building Our Future\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin 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. \nFounded 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. \nProceeds to Benefit the Community Renovation Fund\nA 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. \nWhy Your Support Matters\nYour 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: \n\nPreserve an irreplaceable landmark of Black history and artistry\nExpand access to art education\, exhibitions\, and community engagement\nCreate a lasting space for artists to grow\, express\, and lead\n\n  \n \n\nEvent Highlights\n\nCulinary Experiences from Local Chefs\nLive Artist Renderings\nSSCAC Featured Collection on Display\nSilent Auction Featuring Art\, Luxury Trips\, Entertainment\, and Experiences\nRecognition of Cultural Leaders & Legacy Honorees\n\n \n \nFeaturing 6 Live Artists\n\nSix 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. \n\n\nMartha A. Wade · Dana Todd Pope · Paul Branton · Kiarah Jackson · Kudzai B. Mutasa · Jess Patterson \n\nTheir work honors the past while shaping what’s next\, reminding us why SSCAC has been a cultural home for 85 years and counting.\n\n\n\n  \nJoin Us in Celebrating 85 Years of Creativity and Community\nTogether\, let’s honor the artists\, uplift our community\, and preserve the culture that defines us. \n_______________________\n  \n \n_______________________\n  \nThanks to Our Sponsors\n  \nMargaret Burroughs Sponsor:\n\nRobert S. Guttman Family Charitable Fund \n  \n\n\nArchibald Motley Sponsor\nBill Michel and Mark Botelho\nBryan Perry\nJudy Matthews \n\nIn-Kind Sponsors:\nPigment International\nWilliam Bigham Gallery\nStrategic Events Solutions\, Inc. 
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/save-the-date-for-a-celebration-of-artist-community-and-culture/
LOCATION:Haven Entertainment Center\, 932 E 43rd St\, Chicago\, IL\, 60653\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/85th-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260128T190137Z
CREATED:20260128T180911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T190137Z
UID:11022-1770458400-1770465600@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:PARIS IN BLACK / CHICAGO: WALKTHROUGH & PUBLIC DIALOGUE
DESCRIPTION:Curator-Led Exhibition Walkthrough & Public Dialogue \nSaturday\, February 7\, 2026 \n10:00 AM–12:00 PM \nDuSable Black History Museum and Education Center \n_____ \nABOUT THIS EVENT\n  \nIn connection with PARIS IN BLACK: Internationalism and the Black Renaissance\, the South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC) invites the public to a curator-led exhibition walkthrough and dialogue at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. \nLed by Danny Dunson\, Director of Curatorial Affairs and Arts Education at the DuSable and curator of PARIS IN BLACK\, this program brings together two sister institutions shaped by shared histories of Black migration\, artistic modernism\, and cultural exchange between the late nineteenth century and the mid-twentieth century. \nPARIS IN BLACK examines how Black artists\, writers\, and intellectuals navigated the racial constraints of the United States by moving across borders—particularly to Paris—during periods spanning post-Reconstruction\, the interwar years\, and the rise of modernism. These international movements unfolded alongside the Great Migration\, when millions of Black Americans relocated from the South to northern cities like Chicago\, reshaping Black cultural life\, institutions\, and artistic networks. \nThe exhibition includes select works on loan from SSCAC’s permanent collection and archival holdings\, including Archibald Motley\, Sunday in the Park (1941). Positioned within the exhibition’s broader exploration of Black internationalism\, the work anchors global narratives of movement and exchange within the social life\, modernity\, and visual culture of Black Chicago. \nFounded in 1940\, the South Side Community Art Center emerged in direct response to the exclusion of Black artists from mainstream museums and galleries\, establishing a permanent site for Black artists working across modernist\, social realist\, and diasporic traditions within both local and international contexts. \nThe walkthrough offers a structured way to move through the exhibition together—slowing down with the work and creating space to reflect on artistic movement as both physical migration and aesthetic strategy. Following the walkthrough\, participants will gather for a facilitated public dialogue connecting Paris\, Chicago\, and the enduring role of Black institutions in sustaining artistic life\, memory\, and possibility. \nThis program is open to the public. Admission is free. \n 
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/paris-in-black-chicago-walkthrough-public-dialogue/
LOCATION:DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center\, 740 East 56th Place\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Website-Imagesbanners-2000-x-1800-px.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260225T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260225T191500
DTSTAMP:20260218T194154Z
CREATED:20260218T193719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T194154Z
UID:11028-1772042400-1772046900@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:SATELLITE EVENT | DESIGN DIALOGUE: A RENEWED SOUTH SIDE COMMUNITY ART CENTER
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a captivating look at the South Side Community Art Center as we embark on the biggest transformation in our storied 85-year history. \n\n\n\n\n_____ \n\n\nPresented by the Chicago Architecture Center\, in conversation with the South Side Community Art Center \nFebruary 25\, 2026 \n6:00–7:15 PM \nTickets: $10 General · $5 CAC & SSCAC Members · Free for Burnham Society \nChicago Architecture Center (Lecture Hall) | 111 E Wacker Drive \n_____ \nABOUT THIS EVENT\nJoin the South Side Community Art Center at the Chicago Architecture Center for an in-depth conversation on the Center’s historic renewal and future vision. \nThis public program brings together lead architect Ann Lui\, preservation architect k. kennedy Whiters\, and SSCAC Executive Director Monique Brinkman-Hill\, moderated by architecture critic Lee Bey. Together\, they will reflect on SSCAC’s legacy and share insights into the design and preservation work guiding its $15 million redevelopment. \n 
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/satellite-event-design-dialogue-a-renewed-south-side-community-art-center/
LOCATION:Chicago Architecture Center (Lecture Hall)\, 111 E. Wacker Drive
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Exterior-NW-Night-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260412T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260412T140000
DTSTAMP:20260805T184532Z
CREATED:20260409T191118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T184532Z
UID:11077-1775995200-1776002400@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:SATELITTE EVENT | A BLACK WOMEN IN THE ART CONVENING
DESCRIPTION:Join SSCAC at Blanc for a Black Women in the Arts Convening—an afternoon centered on Black women and being together in creative community. \n\n\n\n\n_____ \nBlanc Gallery\n4445 S Martin Luther King Dr\, Chicago\, IL 60653\n12 pm to 2 pm\nSunday\, Apr 12 \n\n_____ \nABOUT THIS EVENT\nSouth Side Community Art Center invites you to join us for an afternoon of gathering\, connection\, and reflection. \nAfter a pause in 2025 as SSCAC continued its capital campaign and transitioned back into our historic building\, we are returning to this convening in 2026—this year gathering at Blanc\, a Black- and woman-led space—as we create space once again for Black women\, femme\, and non-binary artists\, curators\, and cultural workers to come together. \nRooted in SSCAC’s legacy of supporting Black women in the arts\, this gathering centers the role of Black women as stewards of institutions\, collaborators across disciplines\, and builders of cultural life. \nThe convening is intentionally intimate and lightly structured\, with time to be in community. \nJoin us for drinks\, small bites\, and music as we come together. \nThis gathering is LGBTQIA inclusive. All who are aligned with the space are welcome.
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/satelitte-event-a-black-women-in-the-art-convening/
LOCATION:Blanc Gallery\, 4445 S Martin Luther King Dr\,\, Chicago\, IL\, 60653
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BWIC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260801T235900
DTSTAMP:20260805T184236Z
CREATED:20260429T165232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T184236Z
UID:11154-1776729600-1785628740@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:The Sound of the South Side: Jazz\, Form\, and Freedom
DESCRIPTION:In honor of International Jazz Day\, 2026\, experience the virtual exhibition\, The Sound of the South Side: Jazz\, Form\, and Freedom.
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/the-sound-of-the-south-side-jazz-form-and-freedom/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Exhibitions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/INTL-Jazz-Day-Banner-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260523T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260523T120000
DTSTAMP:20260805T184538Z
CREATED:20260407T194117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T184538Z
UID:11069-1779530400-1779537600@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:SATELLITE EVENT | CREATIVE WORLD BUILDING WORKSHOP SERIES
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a writing & mixed media workshop centered on reflection\, creative growth\, and building a sustainable creative practice. \n\n\n\n_____ \nThe First Presbyterian Church of Chicago\n6400 South Kimbark Avenue\, Chicago\, IL 60637 \n_____ \nABOUT THIS EVENT\nThe Creative World-Building Workshop Series\, facilitated by Rhonda Wheatley\, is an in-person program supporting artists and the broader creative community in building sustainable creative practices through writing\, reflection\, and mixed-media artmaking. \nEach session offers space to slow down and reconnect with your creative process through journaling\, guided reflection\, and intuitive making. Participants explore themes of transformation\, world-building\, and future visioning while developing practices that feel grounded and self-directed. \nWorkshops are free to attend\, with a $10 suggested donation.\nPlease RSVP in advance to attend.
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/satellite-event-creative-wold-building-workshop-series/
LOCATION:The First Presbyterian Church of Chicago\, 6400 South Kimbark Avenue\,\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/CWB-image.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T130000
DTSTAMP:20260805T184542Z
CREATED:20260805T180808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T184542Z
UID:11781-1787396400-1787403600@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:SATELLITE EVENT | MOVEMENT AS MEMORY
DESCRIPTION:A Black August Community Dance Experience Celebrating Black Art\, Cultural Memory\, and Collective Movement \nPresented by the South Side Community Art Center in partnership with Red Clay Dance Company \n\nDate: Saturday\, August 22\, 2026 \nTime: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM \nLocation: Red Clay Dance Center\nred \nAdmission: Free \nRegistration: Advance registration encouraged. \n\n_____ \nABOUT THIS EVENT\n  \n\n\n\nThis Black August\, the South Side Community Art Center and Red Clay Dance Company invite you to Movement as Memory\, an interactive community dance experience inspired by the enduring legacy of Katherine Dunham. \nRooted in the South Side Community Art Center’s longstanding commitment to championing Black artistic expression across disciplines—including dance\, music\, visual art\, and performance—this collaborative program explores how movement carries cultural memory\, preserves tradition\, and strengthens community. Guided by Katherine Dunham’s groundbreaking artistic practice\, participants will engage in movement\, historical reflection\, and collective conversation while considering the many ways dance has shaped Black cultural life\, from artistic innovation and cultural preservation to community building and collective liberation. \nNo prior dance experience is necessary. Please note that this workshop includes guided movement and may not be suitable for very young children. \n 
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/satellite-event-movement-as-memory-a-black-august-community-dance-experience/
LOCATION:Red Clay Dance Center\, 808 E. 63rd St.\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60637\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Movement-as-Memory-EB-BANNER-1024-x-800-px-3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T170000
DTSTAMP:20261021T160446Z
CREATED:20261021T160304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T160446Z
UID:12240-1792771200-1792774800@sscartcenter.org
SUMMARY:BUILDING INSTITUTIONS THAT THRIVE
DESCRIPTION:Part of Chicago to the World Convening\nFriday\, October 23\, 2026\, | Logan Center for the Arts\, University of Chicago | 4:00 – 5: 00 p.m.\nModerator: Lisa Coleman\, President\, Adler University \n_____________________ \nPanelists: Ra Joy\, Executive Director\, Bronzeville Center for the Arts\, Milwaukee \nMonique Brinkman-Hill\, South Side Community Art Center\, Chicago \nKenya K. Merritt\, Commissioner\, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) \n_____________________ \nPanel Overview\nChicago and the broader Midwest are entering a pivotal moment for Black art and cultural leadership. With the opening of the Obama Presidential Center\, renewed attention is turning toward the region’s artistic legacy\, cultural institutions and capacity to shape the national and international conversation about Black creativity. For Chicago\, this is more than a moment of visibility. It is an opportunity to build the infrastructure\, partnerships and investment necessary to sustain Black arts institutions for generations to come. \nModerated by Lisa Coleman\, President of Adler University\, this leadership conversation brings together Ra Joy\, Executive Director of Milwaukee’s Bronzeville Center for the Arts; Monique Brinkman-Hill of Chicago’s South Side Community Art Center; and Kenya Merritt\, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Together\, they will examine what it takes for Black arts institutions to grow\, thrive and fulfill their missions in an evolving cultural and economic landscape. \nThe panel comes at a consequential time for two institutions with distinct but complementary trajectories. Founded in 2020\, the Bronzeville Center for the Arts is advancing plans for a new museum in Milwaukee\, building an institution intended to elevate Black art and cultural narratives. The South Side Community Art Center\, celebrating 86 years of service\, is rehabilitating its historic facility to sustain its legacy as a vital center for Black artistic expression and community engagement. The morning of the convening\, SSCAC will mark a major milestone with its beam-raising ceremony—an expression of renewal\, continuity and investment in its future. \nThese institutional milestones invite a larger regional conversation: What systems must be in place for Black cultural organizations to move beyond survival toward sustained abundance? How can public agencies\, municipal leadership\, philanthropy\, universities\, businesses and cultural partners support the facilities\, staffing\, programming\, fundraising and long-term financial stability that thriving institutions require? \n_____________________ \nChicago’s history offers a powerful foundation for this discussion. From AfriCOBRA and the Black Arts Movement (BAM) to the city’s legacy of world-fair exhibitions\, Black artists and cultural leaders have repeatedly shaped how Chicago and the nation understand art\, identity and possibility. The Midwest has never been peripheral to this story. It has helped define it. \nNow\, with the Obama Presidential Center bringing renewed attention to Chicago and the region\, the question is how to translate visibility into lasting opportunity. How can Chicago’s cultural leadership\, including DCASE\, strengthen Black arts organizations across the city while building partnerships that extend throughout the Midwest? What does it mean for a mayor to aspire to be known as an arts and culture mayor\, and how can that ambition be reflected in sustained support for the institutions that make the city’s cultural identity possible? \nUnder the banner Chicago to the World\, this conversation will explore how Black arts institutions can build the capacity\, relationships and resources to meet this moment—not simply to be seen\, but to lead. The goal is to identify the systems\, commitments and collaborative strategies that will allow Chicago and the broader Midwest to transform historic cultural influence into a thriving\, interconnected future for Black art. \n_____________________ \nHistorical Framing: The Midwest Has Helped Shape the Narrative\nChicago has been a center of Black artistic innovation\, institution-building and collective action. AfriCOBRA helped define a distinctive visual language of Black liberation and identity. The Black Arts Movement expanded the relationship between artistic practice\, community and political expression. The city’s history also includes the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the 1940 American Negro Exposition\, which foregrounded Black achievement in different ways and within different historical circumstances. \nThe point is not simply that Chicago has a distinguished past. Black cultural leadership is part of the region’s institutional DNA. The current moment offers an opportunity to invest in the next generation of that leadership. \n  \n 
URL:https://sscartcenter.org/event/building-institutions-that-thrive/
LOCATION:Logan Center for the Arts\, 915 E 60th S\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637\, United States
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sscartcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/CTTW-Covening-Speakers-NL.png
END:VEVENT
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