INVEST South/West Artist in Residence Program

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), in partnership with the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), seeks artists to participate in the INVEST South/West (ISW) Artist in Residence Program. ISW is a community improvement initiative focused on re-activating neighborhood cores on Chicago's South and West sides that have historically served as focal points for pedestrian activity, shopping, services, transportation, and quality-of-life amenities.

The initial pilot round focuses on four neighborhoods: Englewood, Auburn Gresham, New City, and Austin. Selected artists will work directly with DCASE, DPD, city agencies, local organizations, and residents to develop and implement community engagement, public art, and site-specific cultural programs. As embedded members of ISW teams, artists will lead community engagement programs to create and build upon neighborhood-specific cultural plans. At the conclusion of the engagement period, the artist will deliver a plan for a capstone public art project and provide recommendations to guide future creative projects in the neighborhoods. Depending on the nature of the capstone project, each artist in residence will be engaged for 1-2 years.

Eligibility: Professional artists or artist teams who live or work in the City of Chicago. Artists living and working within ISW neighborhoods are encouraged to apply. Selection criteria include past work in or ties to pilot communities, artistic merit and professional qualifications demonstrated through a portfolio including community-based projects and public art, creative and administrative skills applicable to public engagement and commissions, commitment to equity and access, and ability to translate complex concepts to diverse audiences. Budget for scope of services including artist fees is $30,000. Budget for capstone project(s) is $150,000 and is dependent on community and city approval. Work sample requirements: 6-10 images and up to 1 video (6-11 total samples).