By: Ashmar Mandou

The City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the launch of the Together We Heal Creative Place Program. This grant initiative supports artists in designing and implementing art projects that promote healing and transformation in Chicago’s neighborhoods. Applications for the Creative Place Program will be accepted through July 20, 2022.    

From Fall 2022 through Winter 2024, selected artists and organizations will work in partnership with stakeholders to create projects that strengthen the economic, physical, and social character of a neighborhood or place. This program is part of Mayor Lightfoot’s Chicago Recovery Plan, which utilizes once-in-a-generation federal funding and an equity-based investment strategy to catalyze a sustainable economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“At its core, Together We Heal is a commitment to heal ourselves, heal our communities, and heal our city,” said Candace Moore, Chief Equity Officer at the City of Chicago. “Through the Creative Place Program, the City is putting resources in the hands of the community to use art as a vehicle to reflect, reclaim, and reimagine.  

Projects can be focused on any artistic discipline including, but not limited to, architecture, dance, film, music, performance art, photography, public art, or theater. Successful proposals will energize public spaces and invite residents to interact through dialogues, activations, or creative problem-solving. All project work and programming must be free to the public. The goal of the program is to promote dialogue and connection, activate shared spaces, beautify communities, and celebrate local culture. From Fall 2022 through Winter 2024, selected artists and organizations will work in partnership with stakeholders to create projects that strengthen the economic, physical, and social character of a neighborhood or place.