Mayor Lightfoot, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) announced the first ever Artist-In-Residence Program as part of the City’s INVEST South/West (ISW) community investment and revitalization initiative. The ISW Artist-in-Residence Program will leverage art and creativity as part of a broad and integrated community and economic development plan to re-activate neighborhood cores that have historically served as focal points for pedestrian activity, shopping, services, transportation, public spaces and quality-of life amenities for local residents.

This opportunity is open to professional artists/artist teams who live or work in Chicago. The selected artists/artist teams must have a demonstrated commitment to working with and for the benefit of the public. Artists who live and work within ISW neighborhoods are encouraged to apply. Each Artist-In-Resident project scope should include public engagement, capstone plan development, and documentation at a cost of $30,000. The budget for each capstone project(s), including additional artist fees for oversight and implementation, will be $150,000 and is dependent on community and City approval of the project. The application period is now open and the deadline for submissions is 11:59 p.m., CST on July 26, 2020. Each artist or artist team must submit an entirely digital application. For more information and to apply visit www.chicago.gov/publicart.