By: Ashmar Mandou

The National Museum of Mexican Art (NMMA), one of the country’s prominent Latino cultural organizations, recently acquired a decommissioned fire station, 2358 S. Whipple St. in Little Village, from the City of Chicago in an effort to provide ample services to youth.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Brandon Johnson, to Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development and Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez for shepherding the project through the City Council, to Alderman Michael Rodriguez for his support, and to Commissioner George Cardenas, Cook County Board of Review Commissioner of the First District and former alderman, who initiated the project. Yollocalli is an important part of the Museum’s mission and legacy,” said Founder and President Emeritus of NMMA Carlos Tortolero.

In October, the City Council approved the $1 sale of the City-owned property to the Museum for redevelopment into a community center for arts programming. Once refurbished, the 8,600-square-foot building will be home to a second location for Yollocalli Arts Reach, an award-winning youth initiative of the Museum that offers free arts and culture programming to teens and young adults.

“We are beyond excited at the opportunity to repurpose this vacant building and expand our youth arts programming, providing critical resources to youth in Little Village and surrounding neighborhoods,” said Yanet Garcia, Museum Trustee, Co-Chair of the Fire station Committee, and Vice President, Construction at Related Midwest. “We look forward to working with our partners to make this important initiative a reality.”

According to NMMA, the Yollocalli program has outgrown its current programming space within the Little Village Boys & Girls Club. Museum leaders believe the additional facility will allow Yollocalli programming to double its capacity, serving 300 more students through after-school and summer programs.  The total development cost of the project is estimated at $4 million, which the Museum expects to finance through grants and related funding, pro-bono and discounted services, and support from Museum advocates.

“We’re thrilled to expand our programming for the youth of Little Village and the Chicagoland area,” said Vanessa Sanchez, Director of Education and Yollocalli Arts Reach. “We see the fire station as a spark for youth joy and expression, creative opportunities, partnerships, and community. As a former student of Yollocalli, I look forward to continuing its legacy in this place, and just like its name, it will be the ‘house of the heart’ for more young people.” 

According to NMMA, the main floor of the building will include a reception area, staff offices, lounge areas, a gallery, and a recording booth. Yollocalli students will utilize the first floor, which will also be open to community members for meetings, workshops, performances, and other gatherings. The second floor will include four art studios, additional breakout rooms, and gathering spaces. Work to renovate and restore the building is underway. The Museum hopes to open the new facility in early 2025.

Photo Credit: Gilbane