COUNTRY’S OLDEST BLACK ART CENTER TO GET $15M REHAB
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The South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC), the country’s oldest, independently run, and continuously operating Black arts institution has announced its planned rehabilitation and expansion. The project will add over 10,000 square feet of space to the Center and is estimated to be between $12M — $15M.
The project, which includes the rehabilitation of the historic building plus a state-of-the art expansion, will expand the SSCAC’s capacity for exhibitions, art practice, research, and community engagement. Upon completion SSCAC will be able to facilitate more exhibitions and interactions with Black artists while increasing access for community members, researchers, arts administrators, historians, and educators.
The Center was home to the preeminent artists of the Works Progress Era (WPA) including Margaret Taylor-Burroughs, Eldzier Cortor, Bernard Goss, Charles White, William Carter, Joseph Kersey, Gordon Parks and Archibald Motley Jr. Founded through the Federal Art Project of Illinois, it has supported artists over eight decades, today offering relevant exhibitions and programs that speak to an intergenerational audience. Now that what we call history.
ST. BENEDICT THE AFRICAN — A SANCTUARY OF BEAUTY
Chicago’s St. Benedict the African inspires both spiritually and artistically. From the front door to the baptismal pool to the amazing stain glass windows this sanctuary is a balm to the soul. It was designed by the renowned architectural firm of Belli & Belli and is one of the very few Catholic churches built to serve a predominately African American community. Original works on canvas, sculpted wood and stained glass welcome and draw congregants and visitors into the building. Many of the stained-glass windows depict strong black women, among them Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks.
Each year a work is commissioned for the Ann and Arthur Eiland Art Gallery and Collection. This year’s work is by artist Triple Black.
St. Benedict’s pastor Father David Jones, says, “In our art there is a record of our beauty and value. We bring and leave it here in order that our church may be assisted in her ministry by a fully grown, functioning, willing and able community who sees Jesus in the center of the circle.
OUR LIVED EXPERIENCE OPENS AT LOGAN CENTER
Photo credits Tony Smith and Doug Williams
Our Lived Experience curated by Dorian Sylvain, opened at Café Logan on the campus of the University of Chicago on Friday. Featuring the work of nine emerging women artists, it includes a variety of artistic mediums, weaving together personal narratives and stories that reflect the complexities of identity, heritage and lives realities.
In commenting on the show, Sylvain, an artist, muralist, and mentor to many in the art community, invoked the artistic mentors that shaped her over her long career, including Abena Joan Brown, Dr. Margaret Burroughs and Marva Jolly. The show continues through April 6.
PIGMENT FOUNDER DISCUSSES LEGACY OF BLACK ART WITH ROLLING OUT
The founder of Pigment International discusses her journey from flea market finds to establishing October as Black Fine Art Month. By Vera Emoghene
THE OTHER ART FAIR RETURNS MARCH 27–30
The Other Art Fair Chicago returns March 27–30 with original works of art from 115+ emerging Artists and will kick off with an Opening Night event on Thursday, March 27 complete with Interactive Workshops, Guest Artists, DJ Sets, Unique Installations. Food Trucks and much more. NEW this year, an Artisan Section will feature a dozen artists showcasing decorative artwork made from Ceramic, Glass, Metal and Wood.
USA TODAY ASKS US TO VOTE FOR OUR FAVORITE ARTS DISTRICT!
USA Today asks, what makes for an inspiring arts district? Revitalized and renewed urban spaces in once derelict neighborhoods, big-name museums with architecture as impressive as the art housed within, or streets lined with small galleries and studios interspersed with trendy cafes? No two of these 20 arts districts — nominated by an expert panel — are the same, nor do they offer the same experiences, but they all culturally enrich their cities and those who visit.
Which arts district do you enjoy the most? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, February 17 at noon ET. The winning arts districts, as determined by your vote, will be announced on Wednesday, February 26.
Here at Pigment, we’re cheering on Bronzeville, but it’s Chicago, so we get to vote more than once!
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