February is Black History month and I wanted to highlight the creatives of Chicago, who either live or work predominantly here. Chicago is a city filled with many talented people, which is often overlooked by other major cities, like New York or Los Angeles. Creating art can come in many forms like producing music, painting, sculpture, photography, etc. Here are some that should be highlighted and appreciated not just in February.
- Previously taught here at UIC
- Studied with Charles White in Los Angeles, then moved back to Chicago, where he lives in Bronzeville
- Known for his large paintings and prominent Black figures
- Received his MFA at UIC
- Co-director and founder of Floating Museum
- Had a solo exhibit at the MCA
- Until March 27th, you can see his work at the South Side Community Art Center for free
- Works both in New Orleans and Chicago
- Did a residency at National Public Housing Museum in Chicago
- Known for his murals around the city and most noticeably, Chicago Bulls Center
- Studied at the Art Institute of Chicago
- Depicted Black social life in 1920/’30s that were often controversial but vibrant and full of life
- Referred to as the Chicago Black renaissance (a creative movement)
- A sculptor who started his career late but taught and exhibited his work at the South Side Community Art Center
- Another important artist to the Chicago renaissance movement
OBAC group (Organization of Black American Culture)
- Organization for Black American Culture
- Wall of respect, which features different mediums of art such as poetry, paint, and photography, celebrating different African American heroes
- Led, contributed, and advised mural projects across the country in the 1960s
- Know for “Black Women Emerging” a mural in South Cottage Grove
- Ceramics professor at Chicago State University
- Helped empower women, such as collections like Sapphire and Crystals
Art Centers in Chicago
Southside Community Art Center
– Cultural arts center is providing opportunities in arts, culture, and entrepreneurship to youth, adults, and families across Chicago
MSI Black Creativity Program Black Creativity – Museum of Science and Industry
DuSable Museum of African American History
- founded by Margaret Taylor-Burroughs and one of the few independent institutions