Arts and Public Life

How does fashion thread through generations?

Chicago Style
Saturday Sept 21
3:00-6:00pm
Green Line Performing Arts Center
329 E. Garfield Blvd

Get ready for the Chicago Style: Film & Fashion Show! Experience a multidimensional exploration of Black fashion on Chicago’s South Side from the 1930s through the 80s. Enjoy exclusive interviews with the Chicago Style Cohort, explore clothing from a local vendor, and stunning photography, all culminating in a fashion show, and the debut of an archival film curated and scored by Ayana Contreras.

The waitlist is now open, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event!


Register though the link in our bio!

APL EDU is hiring a Teaching Artist for our Design Apprenticeship Program.

Join the APL team as a DAP Teaching Artist, where you’ll inspire the next generation of diverse arts leaders from the South Side. Collaborate with local teens on projects that matter—giving them the tools to shape their communities while nurturing their creative identity, leadership, and social development.

Be part of a transformative, process-based approach to education that’s all about community, creativity, and growth.

Please note: This position is offered as a temporary, contract position.

Interested? Learn more about the position and how to apply through the link in our bio

photo by natasha moustache |

Grab your mat and join Arts + Public Life's free weekly yoga classes every Friday and Saturday on the Arts Lawn! This 1-hr class focuses on standing and seated poses, stretching, and healthy alignment. We'll also incorporate yogic breathing, meditation, and relaxation techniques. All are great for stress relief and relaxation.

photo by Jovan Landry

Our beloved First Monday Jazz series is back on the Arts Lawn with Chicago native Taylor Iman!

Hailing from Chicago, IL, Taylor Iman's sultry pop soul is poised to leave a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Her journey began in high school, where she showcased her talent in local theater productions. A transformative moment came when she was accepted into Disney Dreamers Academy, later becoming both a talent and ambassador for the program.

In addition to her time at Disney, Taylor has made her mark in various television and theatrical productions, including *The Wiz*, *Les Misérables*, PBS, Nike commercials, *The Chi*, Donda, and more. She has been a featured performer on *The Steve Harvey Talk Show* and *The Steve Harvey Morning Show*, sharing the stage with her hometown hero, Michael Jackson, as well as notable figures like CNN's Soledad O'Brien and Lisa Nichols from *The Secret*.

Taylor has graced stages around the globe, from South Africa to the legendary Apollo Theater and Essence Fest. After opening for renowned recording artists Mario and Jordin Sparks, she felt a calling to give back to her community. Today, she delivers keynotes at universities on the significance of lucid dreaming and teaches performing arts to inner-city youth, inspiring the next generation of talent.

Let us know you are coming by registering through the link in our bio!

Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant September lineup of programs that celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and community. Whether you're an artist, a creative, or simply someone passionate about the arts, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on these opportunities to connect, collaborate, and be inspired!

September 9th - First Monday Jazz: Taylor Iman |
September 10th- Office Hours with Fabi + Olu
September 20th- Social Abstraction: Ayanah Moor & Sampada Aranke in Conversation
September 26th- Arts Block Monthly Tour
September 4th + 18th- Committed Knitters
Friday + Saturday mornings- Community Yoga

Register and reserve your spot today!

Applications are open for our fall edu program!

Are you, or do you know, a teen interested in pursuing creativity, joining a community, and being paid? Join our community of young people at Arts + Public Life!

Arts + Public Life (3) Youth Arts Education programs offer the opportunity to learn more about the arts, develop as a leader, positively impact the community, and meet peers who share similar interests while earning a paid stipend.

TERM DATES:
September 23-December 14

Eligibility Requirements:
Age: 14-19 | Must be a South Side Resident

Questions? Email Education Programs Manager Ebere Agwuncha at [email protected]

Photos from Youthful Expressions: Summer Art Fest by Joel Maisonet

Of Her Becoming: Elizabeth Catlett’s Legacy in Chicago closes on August 31st! There are only a few days left to view APL's highly acclaimed exhibition honoring the work of Elizabeth Catlett. Plan a trip to the Arts Incubator's gallery space so you can see Catlett’s work along with South Side printmakers, Angela Davis Fegan, Krista Franklin and Rebel Betty.

“There’s a realness to Catlett’s work. She didn’t make work purely for beauty, though her work is beautiful. She wanted to convey the reality of labor. As Catlett herself said, “I learned how you use your art for the service of people, struggling people, to whom only realism is meaningful.” Catlett’s success as a Black female artist during her lifetime doesn’t negate the pressure and stress of her work and her endeavors at making a living as a Black woman. What I get most from the pieces in “Of Her Becoming” is the struggle to survive against all odds.”
-Delaney Eubanks for the Chicago Reader

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Oluwaseyi Adeleke’s Prgrssn () clothing brand focuses on the Black experience. His conversation-starting tees, jackets, and hoodies carry phrases like “Let Black Boys Be” and “Black Women Are the Future.”⁠
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Pictured here, Adeleke wears his brand’s For Baldwin suit, inspired by James Baldwin’s first trip to Paris in 1948, and holds a bone china teacup from the same collection.⁠
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Read more at the link in bio.⁠
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📸 ⁠
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・・・
New Issue Drop!

On the Cover: Elizabeth Catlett, “Red Leaves,” 1975. © 2024 Mora-Catlett Family / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY.

This piece will be on view through 8/31 in “Of Her Becoming: Elizabeth Catlett’s Legacy in Chicago” presented at Arts + Public Life Arts Incubator Gallery.

Pick up yours tomorrow in person or read the PDF at the link in our bio.

Join us at Homecoming for a day filled with free activities and treats that are sure to delight.

🌟 Chess Games & Instructions - Sharpen your strategy skills with expert guidance from the amazing Carmenita Peoples. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there's something for everyone!

📚 Book Giveaway - Dive into new worlds with a special Book Giveaway from Call + Response Books. Discover your next favorite read and take it home with you—on us!

🍦 Sweet Treats - Cool down with delicious Ice Cream and Italian Ice from Big Bros. Perfect for a summer day, these treats are available while supplies last, so be sure to grab yours early!

Come for the fun, stay for the community, and make the most of these wonderful offerings. We can't wait to see you there! 🌈

HOMECOMING
August 20th + 21st
4PM-7PM
Arts Lawn | 337 E. Garfield Blvd

In addition to the incredible sculpture and DAP 11 furniture we are thrilled to have Ben Lamar Gay and Mecca Elevated join us at HOMECOMING | August 20th + 21st | 4pm-7pm | The Arts Lawn - 337 E. Garfield Blvd

At 5PM immerse yourself in the innovative sounds of Ben LaMar Gay. As a celebrated composer and multi-instrumentalist, Ben is known for his mesmerizing electro-acoustic collages that weave together sound, color, and space. A former 2019/20 APL Artist-in-Residence, Ben will be performing a special piece that pays homage to the rhythm and spirit of "Ode to Rhumboogie."

Then at 6PM let your senses be uplifted by Mecca Elevated, a multi-faceted artist and skilled sound meditation facilitator. Mecca will guide you through an outdoor sound bath, creating a serene and meditative space where you can relax, rejuvenate, and connect with the natural world around you.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of sound in our beautiful outdoor setting. Come early, bring a friend, and let the music unwind you.

Let's rest together!

Celebrate Washington Park’s vibrant cultural heritage with ‘ode to rhumboogie,’ an interactive sound sculpture by Chicago artists Ebere Agwuncha and Josué Esaú. Inspired by the legendary Rhumboogie Cafe, this installation invites you to play, experiment, and connect through its woven strings, metallic gong, and vibrant arch.

“Through ‘ode to rhumboogie’, we wanted to create a space where the community can engage with the past, present, and future of sounds,” said agwuncha and Esaú, “The Rhumboogie Cafe holds a special place in Chicago’s history, and we hope our work inspires people to remember and celebrate that legacy. This sculpture is an invitation to play, listen, and discover sound’s power to shape our lives and communities. We’re excited to see how people interact with the sculpture and make it their own during Homecoming and beyond.”

View the sculpture and enjoy a wide variety of way to rest and unwind at

HOMECOMING
August 20th + 21st
4pm - 7pm
The Arts Lawn | 337 E. Garfield Blvd

Let’s rest, together!

🎉 HOMECOMING on the Arts Lawn 🎉
🗓️ August 20 & 21 | ⏰ 4pm-7pm
📍 337 E. Garfield Blvd. | Just steps from the Garfield Green Line CTA stop and #55 bus route

Washington Park, it’s time to reclaim leisure on Chicago’s South Side! Join us at the Arts Lawn for an unforgettable evening of sound, play, and community vibes. Explore the stunning sound sculpture by Chicago artists ebere agwuncha and Josué Esaú, inspired by the iconic Rhumboogie Cafe. Experiment with new rhythms, relax on beautifully designed outdoor furniture by APL's Design Apprenticeship Program II, and kick back with games, refreshments, and more.

Special Highlights:
Highlights Include:

5pm | Sound activation by Ben Lamar Gay
6pm | Sound bath by Mecca Elevated
*Chess games & instruction with Carmenita Peoples
*Free ice cream, Italian ice, and watermelon (while supplies last)
*Book giveaway from Call + Response Bookstore

Let’s make new memories together—see you on the Arts Lawn!

Presented with generous support from the Gertie Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, and Traubert/Pritzker Foundation.

Thanks to everyone who attended last months apophenia: anatomy of a prayer. Poets Ireon Roach and Victor Musoni led a powerful writing workshop through intertextual somatic meditation and close reading. Together, attendees delved into the anatomy of prayer, incantation, and the transformative magic of 'speaking over oneself' in Black poetry.

It was an amazing evening and we are so happy for our friends at Jupiter Magazine! Give them a follow and keep up with all of their incredible happenings!

Have you visited the Arts Incubator Gallery to view Of Her Becoming: Elizabeth Catlett's Legacy in Chicago?
You have until August 31st to view this incredible exhibition.

"Catlett’s work is sharp and detailed. Her skill in lithography and linocut printmaking is evident. The image-etched stone or linoleum coming in contact with a surface makes for high-contrast images that leave little room for mistakes. Using these processes makes sense—Catlett’s subjects almost pop off the page and appear three-dimensional, like sculptures." - Delaney Eubanks | Chicago Reader

Arts + Public Life, Arts Incubator: 301 E Garfield Blvd
Gallery Hours Thursday-Saturday 1PM-5PM

Photos by Anjali Pinto

・・・
New PDF drop!

On the cover: Film stills of the Bud Billiken Parade, circa 1940 to 1955, from the Ramon Williams Collection, courtesy of the South Side Home Movie Project, an initiative of Arts + Public Life at the University of Chicago. (). Design by Reader Art Director .

Pick up yours tomorrow in person or read the PDF at the link in our bio.

Happening tomorrow!!!

Youthful Expressions: Summer Art Fest
August 1, 2024 | 6:00-8:00pm
The Arts Lawn | 337 East Garfield Boulevard
Green Line Performing Arts Center | 329 E. Garfield Blvd

Join us as we celebrate the incredible talent and creativity of our young, emerging artists.
Connect with youth, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore the potential of the next generation of artistic visionaries.

Featuring a special performance by the KLEO Center.

See you Thursday!

Have you seen of Her Becoming: Elizabeth Catlett's Legacy in Chicago? Come spend some time learning about her work and the amazing work of South Side contemporary printmakers Angela Davis Fegan, Krista Franklin, and Rebel Betty.

"Of Her Becoming” is meant to both introduce Catlett’s work and connect the artist’s practice to contemporary south-side artists. Their works are in conversation within the space: Catlett’s hangs on the far right of the exhibition space across from the Chicago artists featured. All three are artists, like Catlett, explore themes of Black womanhood, but while the themes are similar, their styles and mediums vary. Rebel Betty collages images of revolutionary women, roses, the Black Panther symbol, and graffiti. Krista Franklin’s work is a range of collages, letterpress on cyanotype, and mixed media." -Delaney Eubanks from the Chicago Reader

photos by Anjali Pinto

Community Yoga on the Arts Lawn
Friday + Saturday | 9:30-10:30a
The Arts Lawn | 337 E. Garfield Blvd

Join us for the last two Community Yoga sessions (this Friday and Saturday) on the Arts Lawn before our August programming break! Take advantage of these final opportunities to soak in the benefits of practicing yoga in the great outdoors. Breathe in fresh air, feel the grass beneath your feet, and embrace the tranquility of nature as you focus on self-care and rejuvenation. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting out, these classes offer the perfect way to refresh your mind, body, and spirit. See you on the Arts Lawn!

photos by: Jovan Landry

Youthful Expressions: Summer Art Fest
Thursday, August 1, 2024 | 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
The Arts Lawn | 337 East Garfield Boulevard

Announcing APL's Summer Education Arts Showcase: Youthful Expressions: Summer Art Fest!
Creative Expressions is a celebration of community, unity, and the transformative power of art. This event celebrates the remarkable talent and creativity of our community’s young emerging artists. Connect with youth, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore the boundless potential of the next generation of artistic visionaries.

Featuring a special performance by the !

Register now through the link in our bio. See you on August 1st!

We are excited to share that our Arts Block neighbors Miyagi Records will be selling records tomorrow at Vends + Vibes!

Miyagi is not your average record store. They are also a small cafe, shared workspace (w/ wifi), and gathering space hosting various cultural and community events. But as a record store, they specialize in obscure and classic - Soul, Funk, Jazz, Latin, Rock, Blues, World Music, New Wave / Industrial, Hip-Hop, Disco, House LP, 12inch single, & 45rpm formats. As a BIPOC-owned store, they want to serve the diverse Southside community by showcasing the vibrant musical legacy of Chicago’s Southside and by offering all of their patrons high quality customer service and fair prices.

VENDS + VIBES IS TOMORROW!

The weather looks just right for you to come out and celebrate South Side art & soul. Find unique art, apparel, jewelry, home decor, and more from 35 talented South Side creative entrepreneurs, including current cohort and alumni of our L1 Creative Business Accelerator! Support local artists and entrepreneurs while enjoying a day of art, music, and community.

Pro tip: Take public transportation for an easy and convenient trip! From the Garfield Red Line Station, hop on the CTA 55 Bus and get off after 5 stops. If you're coming from the Garfield Green Line Station, APL is right across the street—just use the crosswalk and it's on your left. There's free street parking on Garfield Blvd, 55th Place, and South Prairie Avenue. If you choose to drive, please be considerate of our neighbors.

Vends + Vibes 2024 Features:

Hosts: Mike Atcherson ( ) + Binkey ()
DJs: DJ Loxso () + DJ Trew ( )

Vendors:
A Versatile You
Adventures with Abuela
By Yamani Yansa
Callie Decor
Chetoni Designs .jewels.designs
Chicago Torture Justice Memorials Foundation
Dandykingzman
Drifta .world
Found Objects
Herb & Sip Tea
HOOKK'D
IcreateArt2
IceBoxx, LLC
ILAVA
K-FLEYE LLC
La Juicy Jars
Liquid Dyet, LLC
Majestic Wellness
Marcela Adeze Okeke ._
Muted Earth
Peaceful body essentials .body.essentials
prgrssn
Red Elephant Candle Company .elephantcandleco
Reformedschool
Relax&Be
ROCKaBLOCK
Royal Oils
Samantha Jo's Balm Yard
Sated Seasonings
Soap Junkii Bath & Body
Solo Noir + Zen Soul Apothecary |
Soma Gems Jewelry
Stoviink Creatives LLC
Tabby’s Closets
Unity Hues

We are excited to share that Vends + Vibes will have a special guest on Saturday! Former Artist-in-Resident Cecil McDonald will be presenting his work Joy Ride: An Odyssey in Black.

“Encouraged by art's healing and regenerative power, I’m bringing a new public project called Joy Ride: An Odyssey in Black to the streets and parks on Chicago’s South Side. This project is inspired by West African traditions that use music and dance for ceremonial and spiritually uplifting purposes. Working with a team of collaborators, our joy ride will be to pull a musician/DJ on a rickshaw through the community. We will walk, ride, and play as we make our way to significant spaces of nightlife and religious and creative culture in this storied Chicago neighborhood. We will kick off the first of three pulls/walks in the Washington Park Natural area just two short blocks east of the Incubator, specifically the circling of the lagoons and casting ponds. This circle is nearly two miles in diameter with a mostly flat, smooth terrain. Public members are invited to walk with the rickshaw's puller and musician, absorbing music's healing power and energizing our bodies and spirits while communing with nature and community.” - Cecil

See work starting at 1pm on Saturday near the Arts Lawn.

Get ready for an unforgettable Saturday at the L1 Retail Store! Stop by to vibe with our incredible L1 Fellows, then head to the L1 Patio to reconnect with our amazing L1 Alumni and friends. The energy will be electric, the vibes will be unmatched, and you won't want to miss a moment of the excitement on the Arts Block!

DandyKingzman's mission is to have his works of art worn globally. All hats are handmade custom one of one wearable art pieces.

[ROCKaBLOCK] is a lifestyle brand that makes inspiring products for inspired people. The collection of apparel and accessories highlight the richness and depth of Black culture through thought-provoking design.

DRIFTA is a Japanese inspired streetwear brand formed in Chicago IL, by digital artist and designer Bryson Scott. With a focus on simplicity and comfort, we put together pieces that demand attention without the need of being flashy.

Relax&Be’s mission is to illuminate lives through the power of scent. They are dedicated to creating handcrafted candles that promote wellness, relaxation, and a sense of home. All candles are designed to transform any space into a sanctuary of calm, filling it with beautiful fragrances that inspire and soothe.

| @ | @.world |

Get ready for an unforgettable Saturday at the L1 Retail Store! Stop by to vibe with our incredible L1 Fellows, then head to the L1 Patio to reconnect with our amazing L1 Alumni! The energy will be electric, the vibes will be unmatched, and you won't want to miss a moment of the excitement on the Arts Block!

Soma Gems offer an extensive catalog of unique, affordable and ethically sourced gemstone jewelry that comes in high quality ecofriendly reusable packaging.

Callie Decor products infuse positive messaging into every item, as evidenced by the affirming Hip Hop lyrics which adorn the hand painted wall tapestries. Candles are hand mixed, the scent profiles are custom blended, and on each label a quote from a soul artist inspires us to love.

Red Elephant Candle’s are made with natural components. With the base of Coconut wax one will be able to apply the wax to your skin as a topical. The natural oils and essential oils are blended to aid to calmness, focusing, clarity, restlessness, relaxation and happiness to ones space.

At Balm Yard, Samantha Jo stocks a range of medicinal herbs, spiritual amulets, and other products used for remedies. She believes in the power of nature and its ability to bring healing that is both subtle and powerful. From oils to attract luck, candles to light up an altar, or incense to induce peace, Balm Yard has something for everyone's individual needs.

Solo Noir + Zen Soul Apothecary stays true to their eco-conscious ethos. They blend organic and non-toxic ingredients, and use recyclable and sustainable packaging, minimizing our environmental footprint. Every product is a labor of love, infused with the passion and dedication of our collective, offering a sensory journey that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul.

ReformedSchool’s Mission is to use Fashion as a lens through which people can learn about history, politics, culture, and the world. His designs celebrate Black and LatinX history by using fashion accessories to educate.

| | | .elephantcandleco | | | |

This Saturday, Vends + Vibes is turning the Arts Block into an artistic paradise! Head behind the Green Line Performing Arts Center to find tasty pre-packaged treats and self-care essentials from amazing vendors to keep your vibes high all day. Don’t miss:

Herb & Sip Tea blends vibrant Caribbean flavors with soothing teas, offering a sensory journey for wellness and relaxation. Enjoy premium, handcrafted teas that celebrate Caribbean heritage, sustainability, and community engagement.

IceBoxx is a Frozen Treat and Dessert business that specializes in gourmet freeze pops, homemade ice cream, baked cookies, and fresh lemonade.

Sated Seasonings has a specialized focus of bringing fresher, bolder flavored spice blends utilizing natural and single-origin ingredients into your kitchen.

Muted Earth aims to cater to this need by reconnecting the collective to the healing elements of nature.

Majestic Wellness likes to educate consumers on natural herbs and remedies. We develop exclusive Herbal Tea blends and skin care products focused on functional benefits

La Juicy Jars are 100% natural, healthy and refreshing. They believe everyone deserves to be healthy and can create your La Juicy Jars of your choice! La Juicy Jars will make your life easier, your skin glow and your body healthy and strong.

Royal Oils is carefully crafted to address common skin concerns such as eczema, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity. From luxurious body oils to soothing balms, each item is meticulously formulated using natural ingredients that are gentle yet effective.

Peaceful Body Essentials empowers individuals to embrace their natural beauty and wellness through clean, sustainable, and effective skincare products. We aspire to redefine beauty standards by promoting a holistic approach to skincare that nurtures both the skin and the soul.

| | | | | | | .body.essentials

Vends + Vibes is transforming the Arts Block this Saturday into a haven of artistry and excitement. Inside the Green Line Performing Arts Center Lobby are five incredible creators who you must visit

Chicago Torture Justice Memorials Foundation (CTJMF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation whose mission is to facilitate the creation and construction of the memorial promised as part of the reparations legislation for Chicago Police Torture Survivors passed by Chicago’s City Council in 2015.

Found Objects is a jewelry brand that is dedicated to empowering women to feel confident, beautiful, and deserving through handcrafted pieces.

By Yamani Yansa sells hand made, fair trade Senegalese baskets imported directly from women weavers in Ngaye, Senegal which Yamani sells exclusively at markets as they are sold in Senegal.

Adventures with Abuela is a children's books series that provides interesting and beautifully illustrated stories for young children. Inspired by Virginia’s adventures with her grandchildren, Rio and Lily, these books aim to encourage parents and grandparents to read to their children and explore Chicago area institutions together.

ILAVA is a socially responsible lifestyle brand that uses fashion to empower women and inspire change around the world. Currently, ILAVA specializes in four strong products: lifestyle fashion, jewelry, handmade cards, and home decor.

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