Chicago MOPD Field Office Artist in Residence Program

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), in partnership with the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD), seeks an artist or arts organization for the inaugural Field Office Artist-in-Residence Program. The nine-month residency (October 2022-June 2023) is based at the Field Office at 2102 W. Ogden, which houses programs and services for MOPD and the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS).

The artist will develop and lead accessible cultural programs for and by persons with disabilities, seniors, and veterans; help inform a strategic plan for the facility's spaces and uses; and revitalize public understanding of the space. The artist will have access to designated studio space including a carpeted room for movement/work, desk space, storage area, shared kitchen, outdoor garden, free parking, and wall space for displaying art. A $60,000 budget is provided, including a $15,000 stipend paid directly to the artist, with remaining funds allocated to community programs ($18,000), materials and supplies, access services ($15,000), and final project delivery ($2,000).

The artist will create exhibitions, workshops, and participatory events; conduct research into accessible arts programming; submit a program plan with deliverables and schedule; attend monthly meetings with staff; maintain regular onsite creative hours; track program attendance and participant feedback; and present a final project created with constituents. Selection will be based on past work with disability communities or adjacent neighborhoods, artistic merit and professional qualifications, creative and administrative skills, collaborative experience, communication ability, and knowledge of MOPD and DFSS services. Finalists will be invited to interview. Application deadline is July 21, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. CDT via CaFÉ. Applicants must submit 6-10 images and up to 1 video.