Chicago Art Department

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.

Today, CAD is an artist-run, BIPOC-led 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.