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 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 opportunities for artistic development through subsidized Studio Residencies, Think-Tank Cohorts, and contemporary Exhibitions and Programs rooted in justice. CAD residents are activists, educators, and leaders—each at the fore of a radical reimagining of Chicago. CAD’s physical space features soaring 18' ceilings, two public galleries, private studio space for 20 artists, and community event areas. It is located in the historic Fountainhead Lofts building which today is the heart of the Chicago Arts District in East Pilsen. CAD has a variety of ways to engage during OHC: Saturday, October 14, 2023 11am-12pm | Pilsen Classical Performance Pilsen Classical presents ensemble performances with a rotating roster of musicians passionate about the art of string quartet. This program features pieces by Maurice Ravel and Benjamin Britten, along with selections from Caroline Shaw and Jessie Montgomery that will take both the performers and the audience on a journey of color and groove. Musicians: Everardo Sanchez (Cellist), Alejandra Switala (Violinist), Sherri Zhang (Violinist), and Mason Spencer (Violist). 12-2pm | Depression Press Activation Come “pull a print” with CAD Artist Kent Henderson and browse his printmaking studio stacked with antique letterpress equipment, vintage typefaces and printing ephemera. Kent is a printmaker, photographer, educator, and co-founder of Depression Press Mfg. & Ink, Inc. (@depressionpress @kjameshenderson). 2-3pm | Pilsen Classical Performance Pilsen Classical presents ensemble performances with a rotating roster of musicians passionate about the art of string quartet. This program features pieces by Maurice Ravel and Benjamin Britten, along with selections from Caroline Shaw and Jessie Montgomery that will take both the performers and the audience on a journey of color and groove. Musicians: Everardo Sanchez (Cellist), Alejandra Switala (Violinist), Sherri Zhang (Violinist), and Mason Spencer (Violist). Sunday, October 15, 2023 12pm | Exhibition Gallery Tour Lit & Luz Festival 10th Anniversary: A Celebration of Language, Literature & Art The Lit & Luz Festival is a one-of-a-kind series of events featuring renowned authors, visual artists, and musicians from Chicago and Mexico in cultural exchange and conversation. This exhibition features work from Lit & Luz Collaboration Cohort artists from the past decade. 12-4pm | Depression Press Activation Come “pull a print” with CAD Artist Kent Henderson and browse his printmaking studio stacked with antique letterpress equipment, vintage typefaces and printing ephemera. Kent is a printmaker, photographer, educator, and co-founder of Depression Press Mfg. & Ink, Inc. (@depressionpress @kjameshenderson).