CSI Newsletter Archive
Our monthly email newsletter gives you tips on all the art happenings at Chicago Sculpture International in Chicago and beyond. Learn about art openings, exhibitions, sculpture installations, workshops, open calls for art and more. Join our email list to get the latest CSI News and Updates. If you are a member, click to submit your latest artist news to the CSI Newsletter.
May 2024 Newsletter
CSI Project Space and Gallery News
Image credit: Marianne Lovink, Plank series (detail) and Shortstop (detail)
Marianne Lovink
New Work/Chicago
May 9-18, 2024
Opening Reception May 10, 6-8PM
Created after relocating to Chicago during the pandemic, this exhibition by Marianne Lovink is a survey of new work exploring the dynamic interplay of sculptural form and its graphic embellishment. Of particular interest to me is how an imposed motif can conform to, but also resist, the underlying structure, creating intriguing visual tension.
Although the graphic black and white energy of repetitive form has been a common theme over the years; the most recent introduction of color has also added a new vibrancy and playfulness to the previously spare palette of previous works.
CSI Project Space
1912 N. Damen Avenue
Chicago, Il, 60647
Special gallery hours: May 9, 10, 16 & 17, 1-6pm; May 11, 12 & 18, 12-5pm
Parts Apart
Exhibit Opening reception: Thursday, May 23rd, 5-9 pm
Parts Apart, is a multi-media exhibition featuring new graphite drawings in a painted environment by Zsófia Otvos. Her pieces are about moments of feeling torn apart to complete happiness. She will also showcase the 40 illustrative drawings for the original fairy tale, Tzia. Guest artists presented are Melissa Kolbusz WIRED jewelry, and Lidoska Guietti oil paintings.
Other notable dates:
- Memorial Day p-Art-y and sale: Saturday, May 25th, 5-9 pm
- Tzia book release first anniversary and signing event: Sunday, May 26th, 11 am - 6 pm
- Closing reception: Saturday, May 31st, 4-8 pm.
For more information please visit www.zsofiaotvos.com | www.wiredresistance.com
Foam Carving Workshop
May 15 from 7-9PM at Project Space
We had so much fun at last month's Carving Foam workshop that Jyl Bonaguro decided to offer another one on May 15th from 7-9pm. Register on Eventbrite.
Welcome to the Carving Foam Sculptures Workshop Carve & Sip! Design, carve, and paint your own sculpture in foam during this 2 hour workshop class under the tutelage of professional stone sculptor, Jyl Bonaguro. With techniques similar to carving stone but without all the sweat, you will explore the techniques of blocking, detailing, and finishing as you create a stunning masterpiece. No experience is necessary!
Details: Adults Only Ages 21+. No previous experience is required to participate. All materials are provided along with aprons. BYOB. $40 admission fee.
Perfect Artist Exhibition Space or Special Events in Bucktown in Professional Gallery
Gallery rental available:
May 20 – June 2 (OPEN 2 weeks);
Aug. 14 – Sept. 6 (OPEN 3 weeks)
$500 per week professional gallery space includes track lighting, WiFi, folding chairs, pedestals, 8 foot ladder, bathroom no kitchen, 24 hr access. Features:
• Great local commercial district with artisans and small businesses.
• Gallery floor plans available upon request. 950 sq feet
For specs and details: https://tinyurl.com/project-space-rental
For additional information: info@chicagosculpture.org
CSI Educational Art Workshops in 2024
Michael Gallager, in celebration of the incoming “Mother’s Day”, will conduct an after school activity this May 6th for the CSI Educational Art Workshops in 2024 from 4:30-5:30 pm at The Boys and Girls Club of America, located at the Lathrop Homes, 2915 N. Leavitt in Chicago.
CSI Grants Committee News
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)
Deadlines for FY25
GAP 2: July 11, 2024 for project start date of June 1, 2025
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) provides funding to strengthen US arts/culture ecosystem
NEA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and mutual respect for diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups. Please see link for possible funding eligibility:
www.arts.gov/grants/grants-for-arts-projects/artistic-disciplines
CSI, as an arts organization can help support application processes for CSI members. If any member of CSI is interested to apply for any of of these grants please email: Anthony May - Grants Chair - anthonyheinzmay@chicagosculpture.org
Current CSI Exhibitions
Opening: Saturday, June 8, from 6-9 pm
Artists periodically ask themselves, "How am I doing?" A closer look often inspires auto-biographical work. Objects are born of thoughts and feelings, then made from an examined life. Self / Portraits invites sculptors to check-in on their condition.
Curated by Thomas Plum
CSI Project Space
1912 N. Damen Avenue
Chicago, Il, 60647
CSI Members - Teachers Needed for Workshops
The educational art workshop program wants to build a stronger presence in the community for CSI that promotes marginalized communities to use art as a way for people to connect with each other.
Presently, we are looking for artist members with creative projects to be completed in roughly 60 minutes for the boys and girls club at the Lathrop Homes, located at Damen and Diversey in Chicago.
Artists receive a stipend and materials budget. Any interested members with ideas for a kid’s art workshop activity that is roughly 60 minutes please reach out and email or call Set Gozo at setgozo84@gmail.com or (773) 372-5508.
Land Acknowledgement
The City of Chicago, and its surrounding areas, have always been and always will be, home to numerous Native American communities. As a team dedicated to the uplifting of Indigenous People's sovereignty everywhere, we recognize that each program and exhibition associated with this project is taking place on the traditional homelands of the Council of Three Fires - the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa - as well as the Menominee, Miami, and Ho-Chunk Nations. Further, we acknowledge that Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the US. We therefore invite each of our non-Indigenous colleagues to learn more about the forced removal of many of the communities listed above from the state of Illinois and to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their line of work. To provide immediate assistance to Native American Communities in Chicago, you can send donations to the city's American Indian Center here.
Current CSI Exhibitions
Image credit: (left) Bruce Webber, Targets (right) Bill Mitchell, Amalgam
CSI x ALMA Group Exhibit
2024 Chicago Sculpture International Juried Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors
Exhibition runs through September 1, 2024
Art After Hours on Friday evening of EXPO ART WEEK, and features extended hours at over 45 galleries and creative spaces throughout the city of Chicago. With a myriad of exciting events unfolding throughout the evening, be sure to plan your night accordingly using the Gertie programming schedule and map. No matter your background—whether you’re an art aficionado or a newly minted collector—Art After Hours is a great place to forge relationships with new galleries, artists and other collectors!
About CSI x ALMA: Both Indoor and Outdoor Sculptors were invited to enter up to three works for the Annual Spring Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors in Chicago, IL. The exhibition will coincide with Expo Chicago, International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, April 11- 24, 2024 Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois. Alma Art and Interiors, established 2021, is a contemporary fine art gallery in the historic Bridgeport Arts Corridor featuring over 80 artists in 10,000 sq. ft.
Exhibiting artists: Nikki Rene Anderson | Nicole Beck | Hilda deBruyne | Donna Castellanos | Michelle Corazzo | Ei Cullina | Brian Divis | Victoria Fuller | Musa Ghaznavi | Shelley Gilchrist | Karen Gubitz | Donna Hapac | Indira Freitas Johnson | Fred Klingelhofer | Yvette Kaiser Smith | Seoyoung Lee | Micheal Litewski | Luba Mendelevich | Ruth Aizuss Migdal | Bill Mitchell | Chris Newman | Connie Noyes | Kaia Olsen | Louise Pappageorge | Chris Perri | Nancy Lu Rosenheim | Olya Salimova | Dominic Sansone | James Stafford | Roberta Ulrich-de Oliveira | Nancy VanKanegan | Bruce Webber | Jamie Weinfurter | Chris Wubbena | Toby Zallman
ALMA Art and Interiors
3636 S. Iron Street
Chicago, Illinois 60609
(847) 922-5736 or (224) 522-4525
Gallery hours: Open Sundays 12 to 5pm
Contact the gallery at: hello@almaartandinteriors.com
For general information about the exhibit: info@chicagosculpture.org
CSI Call for Entries
By Degrees III (2024): Call for Submissions
Entry Deadline: Sunday, July 28, 2024, midnight central standard time
Notification by: Sunday, August 18, 2024
Artwork Drop-Off Date: Sunday, September 8, 1-5pm
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 14, 6-9pm
Pick-Up/Deinstall Artwork: Sat/Sun, October 5-6, 1-5pm
Exhibition Dates: Saturday, September 14 - Friday, October 4, 2024
Often an artist’s most groundbreaking work comes from being immersed in a culture of study and intellectual pursuit. Chicago, home to some of the most globally revered academic arts institutions, could be considered a sort of proving ground for tomorrow’s most promising contemporary emerging artists. Chicago Sculpture International (CSI) is calling for artists who are enrolled in, or recently (2023 or later) graduated from a degree-seeking program to submit works of sculpture, installation, and media work to be featured in the third annual juried group exhibition By Degrees, scheduled for September 14 - October 4, 2024, at CSI Project Space in Chicago.
Artists will be able to submit up to 3 works for consideration. There is no fee for entry. Accepted artists will be granted a one-year non-transferrable student membership to CSI. This call is not limited to students and graduates of Chicago-area institutions, but accepted artists will be required to gallery sit for at least one 4-hour shift during the exhibition run.
Please complete the application form HERE.
Look HERE for submission information.
For any questions contactprojectspace@chicagosculpture.org
Caption for photo: Above (left to right): Fairy Ring by Greta Olson, Soil Samples by Kristina Rogers, Two-Headed Fawn by Ariana Hocking, and Rest Area by Stella Moon
Members News
Thick Skinned: Lynn Basa, Christine Forni, Bobbi Meier
Thick-skinned cuts both ways. It’s the build-up of imperviousness to life’s abrasions over time and lived experience, but it’s also a form of concealment. Without these protections, the human condition would be unbearable. Lynn Basa, Christine Forni, and Bobbi Meier each have their way of approaching material as a metaphor for this survival membrane between the external world and themselves.
On View: April 5th - May 25
Epiphany Center for the Arts, Chase Gallery, 201 South Ashland Avenue, Chicago
Gallery visiting hours by appointment:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – 10:00 am-4:00 pm
To schedule an appointment contact: art@epiphanychi.com
https://epiphanychi.com/lynn-basa-christine-forni-bobbi-meier-thick-skinned/
Marci Rubin and Samuel Schwindt Solo Exhibits at Epiphany Center for the Arts
CSI Members Marci Rubin and Samuel Schwindt are having solo exhibits at Sacristy Gallery (Epiphany Center for the Arts) and they open Friday, May 31, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
About Marci Rubin’s Majora & Minora
In her sculpture and installations, Marci Rubin investigates a state of transformation, both literally and metaphorically through process and materials. Reclaiming, upcycling, abstracting, and manipulating discarded or donated clothing, Rubin questions and addresses the human body: structures & systems; proportions & scales; interiors & exteriors; textures & colors; and orientations & identities. The finished pieces unveil a dialogue that often generates debate about human rights and privileges, while touching on the status quo and deviation regarding personal bodily decisions.
About Samuel Schwindt’s Revealed Armor: Leather and Light
Inspired by archival research in Chicago, Samuel Schwindt’s site-specific installations and sculpture explore stories both forgotten and willfully disappeared. He rebuilds and recontextualizes Chicago Queer spaces of the past, seeking to showcase the LGBTQ+ community’s fight for equality. Curated by independent curator and media producer, Pia Cruzalegui, Revealed Armor: Leather and Light is an exhibition about untold tales and inconclusive archives. The work celebrates the humanity of LGBTQ+ persons, emphasizing light, boldness, discovery, and the impetus of an artist reconciling past and present.
For more information and tickets:
Marci Rubin exhibit
Samuel Schwindt exhibit
Epiphany Center for the Arts
201 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, Illinois
(312) 421-4600
Gallery visiting hours by appointment:
M, Tu, Th, & Fri: 10am-4pm
To schedule an appointment contact: art@epiphanychi.com
HARPY · HUMAN · HYBRID · BEAST
Works by Nancy Lu Rosenheim
Show run: March 29 to May 11, 2024
Epiphany Center for the Arts
201 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL
312-421-4600
Gallery Hours by Appointment: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10:00-4:00
To schedule a visit, please contact art@epiphanychi.com
Nancy Lu Rosenheim’s menagerie celebrates the vulnerabilities and limitations inherent in the human psyche. Her characters expose the flaws we prefer to conceal – a hairy mole, age-spotted skin, and the cowering posture of
embarrassment or shame. Embracing sculpture, printmaking and works on paper, scale navigates between a seven-inch homunculus to a nine-foot worm, inviting the viewer to consider their own stature relative to other living beings. HARPY ·HUMAN · HYBRID · BEAST draws inspiration from Art of the Grotesque, balancing whimsy with menace. Rosenheim’s creatures assert both frailty and boldness and bear the distinct imprint of the human hand.
Rosenheim has been featured in the Huffington Post, Chicago Tribune, NewCity, and Chicago Portraits. Exhibitions include the Hyde Park Art Center, Slow Gallery, and the Koehnline Museum, in Illinois, Galerías Cartel and Verlín in Granada, Spain. Rosenheim is Instructor at Northeastern Illinois University and College of Lake County. She holds an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a BFA from the School of Visual Arts, NY.
For information, please contact:
Julie Carpenter
Director of Art & Programming
Mobile: 708.704.3681
julie@epiphanychi.com
Memorial Sculpture by Nicole Beck
On May 24 at 12:15 there will be a dedication ceremony for the memorial sculpture created by Nicole Beck for Copeland Manor Grade School in Nicole’s hometown, Libertyville, IL. All are welcome.
The initial contact for the sculpture’s design was facilitated through a CSI contact to create a customized work to celebrate the life of a beloved 10-yr old student, Charlotte Frank who lost her life tragically to an aggressive cancer. Nicole worked with the school’s principal, art teacher, family members, school community and grounds keeper to create a work appropriate to the site, her family history and limited budget. Specifically, they wanted a figurative component that resembled Charlotte who loved the color purple/lilac, often sported Chuck Taylor high tops and displayed the deaf friendship sign (because her younger brother was deaf.) The school is collaborating by their students creating cement mosaic stepping stones around the site.
Liminal Space
The art of Bethany Cordero & Deborah Newmark
Opening: Friday, May 10, 2024 5-9pm
Show runs through June 8, 2024
Workshop: May 18, 1-4pm
Olivia Gallery, 3816 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL
www.olivagallery.com
Cordero explores issues of identity, memory, and the impermanence of self. As we are left with vestiges of thoughts-memories of a life that no longer exists. We are in a perpetual state of transition from one state of consciousness to the next. By grafting, binding, and welding these materials together, she uses the remnants to create sculptural assemblages that serve as a symbolic bridge between her selfhood of today into the liminal space of tomorrow. Each iteration is equally referential and abstract, and serve as containers for space, composition and the inherent congruency and contradictions between her past and the present.
Newmark is curious about where things touch, where one thought ends and another begins, what is left unsaid. She acknowledges that singular moment in time, one that will never exist again. Using a mix of media, a layering of materials and gesture, she finds beauty in surprising relationships, often improvised or accidental.
Asian American Heritage Month Celebration
Set Gozo’s sculpture pieces currently in Evanston Art Center as part of Sinag artist group exhibition. Sinag is a not-for-profit group representing Filipino-Asian-American artists in the US.
Set will be travelling to North Dakota to participate in a panel discussion and sculpture demonstration at the Asian-American Cultural Expo hosted by the North Dakota Asian-American Artists Cultural Initiative (NDAAACI). Some of her pieces will be on exhibit and for auction. Part of the proceeds will be donated to NDAAACI to support their initiatives to promote Asian-American artists.
Kara Cobb Johnson in System and Dialectics of Art
Member Kara Cobb Johnson will be in the spring group show, "System and Dialectics of Art" at Madron Gallery
The exhibit runs through June 14th
Exhibiting Artists: Andrew Arkell, Zach Balousek, Michael Banning, Shel Howard Beugen, Jess Beyler, Margie Criner, Matthew Cortez, Kara Cobb Johnson, Matt Kuhlman, Ruben Lima, MISU, Alison Mosher, Kristen Phipps, Joseph Royer, and Bruce Thorn
Featuring live music with the Steve Knight Trio, cocktails, and passed d'oeuvres.
Free parking available at Madron.
Madron Gallery
1000 W North Ave
Third Floor, Chicago, IL 60642, USA
Image: Artwork by Kara Cobb Johnson
The following are not CSI-sponsored calls but may be of interest to our members.
Art-In-Architecture RFQ for Purchase of Artworks
The Art-in-Architecture Program of the Capital Development Board is pleased to announce a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to Illinois professional artists for the purchase of permanent original art for the College of Lake County (CLC), Lakeshore Campus in Waukegan, Illinois.
Type of media for this project is open and includes two-dimensional media such as painting, drawing, photography, textiles, collage, mixed-media, and small-scale three-dimensional pieces suitable for hanging.
The submission instructions for this RFQ are for purchase and not commission. Artists from the Waukegan area are especially encouraged to apply. Final Deadline: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 4:30PM. Applying before deadline is encouraged.
Art in the Park, Rock Falls, Illinois
Call for Entries
Deadline: Wednesday, June 1, 2024
With the continued success of our previous six years Art in the Park Sculpture Walk, Rock Falls Tourism is making preparations for our 7th year of bringing in amazing sculptures to our RB&W District. We are now accepting submissions for sculpture art to be on display at the RB&W District along the Rock River. This open space park is used by many organizations putting on events and draws people from surrounding communities and states, which will ensure a high amount of visibility for your art throughout the year. The RB&W District is also security monitored, 24 hours a day. The Art in the Park Sculpture Walk is also featured on the Otocast application for smartphones which provides an additional layer of exposure. Artists will be asked to record an audio component for this application, should their sculpture be chosen.
The Rock Falls Tourism Department has opened up the selection process to artists within the rest of the
state, as well as surrounding states. The sculptures will be installed at the RB&W District, on August 23, 2024. Artists will be given a $1,250 stipend and will be able to make their sculpture available for purchase.
For more information: HERE
For questions, contact Melinda Jones.
For more information: https://dankhaus.com
Submit Your News
Have any news to share?
Shows, awards, residencies etc? Submit here and we'll include them in an upcoming newsletter.
While you're at it, your profile and images on CSI’s website are important. When CSI applies for grants and upcoming shows, images are solely chosen from those you have uploaded to our website. Please take a minute to look over what you have posted and make sure you are presenting the best work. Member Shelley Gilchrist sgilchristart@gmail.com has volunteered to help you if you need it, so feel free to contact her.
CSI projects are partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.
April 2024 Newsletter
In Memory of CSI Founding Member
Tom Scarff
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to one of Chicago Sculpture International's founding members, S. Thomas Scarff. Tom was a pillar of strength and a guiding light for the organization during its inception and remained an active member for many years. He also played a pivotal role in shaping CSI's mission, vision, and values, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
A long-time resident of Chicago, Tom was born in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa in 1942 and later received acclaim through exhibitions and commissions from renowned organizations such as Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago. Tom’s role at Sedgwick Studio, home to other highly-accomplished CSI sculptor members, left a lasting connection with Chicago as a whole.
Tom leaves behind an artistic legacy that will continue to inspire us to uphold the ideals and principles he held dear. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate his remarkable life and the great impact had on our organization and the community at large.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Tom will forever remain in our hearts and with the spirit of Chicago Sculpture International.
CSI Project Space and Gallery News
International Sculpture Day is April 27!
Come join us at the CSI Project Space and Gallery
Carving Foam Sculptures Workshop with Jyl Bonaguro
Master the art of sculpting and carving foam in this hands-on workshop led by a professional sculptor.
Saturday, April 27, 2 to 4pm
Location: CSI Project Space
1912 North Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60647
What you'll learn in this foam carving sculpture class:
Let’s Carve Foam – Design, carve, and paint your own sculpture in foam during this 2 hour workshop class under the tutelage of professional stone sculptor, Jyl Bonaguro.
With techniques similar to carving stone but without all the sweat, you will explore the techniques of blocking, detailing, and finishing as you create a stunning masterpiece. No experience is necessary!
Details: Adults Only Ages 16+. No previous experience is required to participate. Materials are provided. Workshop is free but registration is required to participate.
About CSI Project Space
CSI Project Space gallery is under the direction of a collective of Chicago-based artists, hosting curated indoor exhibitions, innovative educational programming for professional sculptors as well as the general public, while giving back through partnerships with local community and philanthropic organizations. In celebration of International Sculpture Day, CSI is offering this FREE workshop to the general public.
About Chicago Sculpture International
Chicago Sculpture International brings art to the public and encourages an evolving community for artists. We look forward to creating more programs that mutually benefit our members, the public, sculpture and the Chicago land area. We believe in Creating Community through Sculpture. visit chicagosculpture.org for more info or to join now!
Jyl Bonaguro is a Chicago-based sculptor and playwright with a professional studio in the Hermosa neighborhood. Jyl creates sculpture works of wings and the human figure in marble, limestone and mixed media for public and private art. Her sculptures have been featured in publications like CS Modern Luxury Interiors, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Reader, Newcity Art, and Sheridan Road and are in private art collections throughout the United States.
Above: Marianne Lovink, Plank series (detail) and Shortstop (detail)
Marianne Lovink
New Work / CSI Project Space
May 9-18, 2024
Opening Reception May 10, 6-8PM
Created after relocating to Chicago during the pandemic, this exhibition by Marianne Lovink is a survey of new work exploring the dynamic interplay of sculptural form and its graphic embellishment. Of particular interest to me is how an imposed motif can conform to, but also resist, the underlying structure, creating intriguing visual tension.
Although the graphic black and white energy of repetitive form has been a common theme over the years; the most recent introduction of color has also added a new vibrancy and playfulness to the previously spare palette of previous works.
CSI Project Space, 1912 N. Damen Avenue, Chicago, Il, 60647
Hours: May 9, 10, 16, & 17, 1-6pm; May 11, 12, & 18, 12-5pm
Perfect Artist Exhibition Space or Special Events in Bucktown in Professional Gallery
Gallery rental available:
May 20 – June 2 (OPEN 2 weeks);
Aug. 14 – Sept. 6 (OPEN 3 weeks)
$500 per week professional gallery space includes track lighting, WiFi, folding chairs, pedestals, 8 foot ladder, bathroom no kitchen, 24 hr access. Features:
• Great local commercial district with artisans and small businesses.
• Gallery floor plans available upon request. 950 sq feet
For specs and details: https://tinyurl.com/project-space-rental
For additional information: info@chicagosculpture.org
News from the Education Committee
CSI Members - Teachers Needed for Workshops
The educational art workshop program wants to build a stronger presence in the community for CSI that promotes marginalized communities to use art as a way for people to connect with each other.
Presently, we are looking for artist members with creative projects to be completed in roughly 60 minutes for the boys and girls club at the Lathrop Homes, located at Damen and Diversey in Chicago.
Artists receive a stipend and materials budget. Any interested members with ideas for a kid’s art workshop activity that is roughly 60 minutes please reach out and email or call Set Gozo at setgozo84@gmail.com or (773) 372-5508.
CSI Grants Committee News
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)
Deadlines for FY25
GAP 2: July 11, 2024 for project start date of June 1, 2025
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) provides funding to strengthen US arts/culture ecosystem
NEA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and mutual respect for diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups. Please see link for possible funding eligibility:
www.arts.gov/grants/grants-for-arts-projects/artistic-disciplines
CSI, as an arts organization can help support application processes for CSI members. If any member of CSI is interested to apply for any of of these grants please email: Anthony May, Grants Chair at anthonyheinzmay@chicagosculpture.org
Land Acknowledgement
The City of Chicago, and its surrounding areas, have always been and always will be, home to numerous Native American communities. As a team dedicated to the uplifting of Indigenous People's sovereignty everywhere, we recognize that each program and exhibition associated with this project is taking place on the traditional homelands of the Council of Three Fires - the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa - as well as the Menominee, Miami, and Ho-Chunk Nations. Further, we acknowledge that Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the US. We therefore invite each of our non-Indigenous colleagues to learn more about the forced removal of many of the communities listed above from the state of Illinois and to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their line of work. To provide immediate assistance to Native American Communities in Chicago, you can send donations to the city's American Indian Center here.
Current CSI Exhibitions
Image credit: (left) Bruce Webber, Targets (right) Bill Mitchell, Amalgam
CSI x ALMA Group Exhibit
2024 Chicago Sculpture International Juried Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors
Exhibition Dates: April 12, 2024 to September 1, 2024
with opening weekend, Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14, 12 to 5 pm.
Opening Reception pARTy EXPO After Hours
Powered by Gertie! and sponsored by Arete Wealth & Masterworks Friday, April 12, 2024, 5 to 10 pm
Art After Hours on Friday evening of EXPO ART WEEK, and features extended hours at over 45 galleries and creative spaces throughout the city of Chicago. With a myriad of exciting events unfolding throughout the evening, be sure to plan your night accordingly using the Gertie programming schedule and map. No matter your background—whether you’re an art aficionado or a newly minted collector—Art After Hours is a great place to forge relationships with new galleries, artists and other collectors!
About CSI x ALMA: Both Indoor and Outdoor Sculptors were invited to enter up to three works for the Annual Spring Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors in Chicago, IL. The exhibition will coincide with Expo Chicago, International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, April 11- 24, 2024 Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois. Alma Art and Interiors, established 2021, is a contemporary fine art gallery in the historic Bridgeport Arts Corridor featuring over 80 artists in 10,000 sq. ft.
Exhibiting artists: Nikki Rene Anderson | Nicole Beck | Hilda deBruyne | Donna Castellanos | Michelle Corazzo | Ei Cullina | Brian Divis | Victoria Fuller | Musa Ghaznavi | Shelley Gilchrist | Karen Gubitz | Donna Hapac | Indira Freitas Johnson | Fred Klingelhofer | Yvette Kaiser Smith | Seoyoung Lee | Micheal Litewski | Luba Mendelevich | Ruth Aizuss Migdal | Bill Mitchell | Chris Newman | Connie Noyes | Kaia Olsen | Louise Pappageorge | Chris Perri | Nancy Lu Rosenheim | Olya Salimova | Dominic Sansone | James Stafford | Roberta Ulrich-de Oliveira | Nancy VanKanegan | Bruce Webber | Jamie Weinfurter | Chris Wubbena | Toby Zallman
ALMA Art and Interiors
3636 S. Iron Street
Chicago, Illinois 60609
(847) 922-5736 or (224) 522-4525
Gallery hours: Open Sundays 12 to 5pm
Contact the gallery at: hello@almaartandinteriors.com
For general information about the exhibit: info@chicagosculpture.org
Rangoli Workshop with Indira Johnson
Sunday, April 28, 2024, 1 to 3pm
Alma Art and Interiors
3636 S. Iron Street
Chicago, Illinois 60609
Rangoli is a South Asian folk art tradition, where a woman inaugurates the day by painting a pattern on the threshold of her home. This tradition is embedded in a ritual practice that is centered around the protection and well being of one’s family. Drawing Rangoli patterns, establishes a ritualistic relationship to the ground we walk on, making it sacred. This traditional ritual has its origin in the need to locate the individual within a larger universe. Similar traditions exist in other cultures including Native American and Tibetan.
The making and participation in ritual art is a way of sharing sadhana or grace. We see this in the rituals we design around births, graduations, marriages and deaths. The act of performing those rituals is a way for us to come together to share our joy and sorrow.
Rangoli drawings are made up of symbols, meant to bring beauty and harmony, and counter the negative forces of imbalance with the positive powers of wholeness and vitality. Traditional materials that will be used include rice flour, turmeric powder, earth, and flower petals and leaves
Indira Johnson, has drawn Rangoli Patterns throughout the US. As she explains, “one of the goals of this project is to discover through dialog, art and ritual the commonality of our human experience, and the spiritual potential inherent in all of us.” This event is free but a ticket is required to participate.
Because tickets are limited, if you need to cancel attending after your ticket is reserved, we kindly request that you contact info@chicagosculpture.org immediately so the ticket may be made available for someone else. For more information please contact: info@chicagosculpture.org
Above: (left) Jill King, Ebb, (center); Nancy VanKanegan, Sacerdotal Clown; (right) Zelene Jiang Schlosberg, Origin
Unfavorable Conditions
Exhibition dates: Extended to April 27, 2024
CSI Project Space and Gallery
1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Unfavorable Conditions reflect on the human ability to navigate internal and external storms and emerge on the other side transformed. This exhibit examines the resilience inherent in the human spirit, encouraging a collective acknowledgement of the strength that arises when faced with life's challenges.
Exhibiting Artists: Angela McElwain, Anthony Heinz May, Cherry Tung, Autumn Lundberg, Caroline Jacobson, Cherylle Booker, Dawn Liddicoatt, Deana Bada Maloney, Frederick Napoli, Howard Sandroff, Jill King, Julia Paloma, Karl Johnson, Kasia Kay, Laurie LeBreton, Lilach Schrag, Lori Rozdolsky, Michael Gallagher, Nancy VanKanegan, Maddy Lee, Pat Brutchin, Maeve McGale, Peter Gray, Set Gozo, Wallace Bowling, and Zelene Jiang Schlosberg
Curated by Micki LeMieux
Self Portraits group exhibit at Chicago Sculpture International Project Space
CALL FOR ENTRIES
Entry Deadline: Friday, May 3, 2024
CSI Project Space and Gallery
1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Artists periodically ask themselves, “How am I doing?”. A closer look often inspires auto-biographical work. Objects are born of thoughts and feelings, then made from an examined life. Self | Portraits invites sculptors to check-in on their condition.
Curated by Thomas Plum
• Applicants must be current CSI members. To sign-up for membership: www.chicagosculpture.org/become-a-member
• 3D work accepted – Sculptural installation work encouraged.
• Open interpretations of the exhibit theme are welcomed.
• Artists must install their own work.
• An artist’s statement and short bio will be required for the accepted piece.
• Contact Info: Name, address, phone, email, website
• 1 to 3 jpg images (+ image details): Title, medium, size, price with 30% donation to CSI added
Submit on this Google form here: https://forms.gle/YaAdqMopfC4bhpUL7
Exhibition Dates: June 8 – July 12, 2024
Notification: Wednesday, May 29 & Thursday, May 30
Artwork Drop-off: Saturday, June 1 & Sunday, June 2, from 1-5 pm
Opening: Saturday, June 8, from 6-9 pm
Artwork Pick-up: Saturday, June 13 & Sunday, June 14, from 1-5 pm
Please Note: We request exhibiting artists to cover 1 to 2 gallery-sitting shifts during the show
Members News
Thick Skinned: Lynn Basa, Christine Forni, Bobbi Meier
Thick-skinned cuts both ways. It’s the build-up of imperviousness to life’s abrasions over time and lived experience, but it’s also a form of concealment. Without these protections, the human condition would be unbearable. Lynn Basa, Christine Forni, and Bobbi Meier each have their way of approaching material as a metaphor for this survival membrane between the external world and themselves.
Artists Talk: Friday, April 12, 7:00pm
On View: April 5th - May 25
Epiphany Center for the Arts
Chase Gallery
201 South Ashland Avenue, Chicago
Gallery visiting hours by appointment:
M, Tu, Th, & Fri – 10am-4pm
To schedule an appointment contact: art@epiphanychi.com
https://epiphanychi.com/lynn-basa-christine-forni-bobbi-meier-thick-skinned/
Kara Cobb Johnson in System and Dialectics of Art
Member Kara Cobb Johnson will be in the spring group show, "System and Dialectics of Art" at Madron Gallery The exhibit runs through June 14th
Exhibiting Artists: Andrew Arkell, Zach Balousek, Michael Banning, Shel Howard Beugen, Jess Beyler, Margie Criner, Matthew Cortez, Kara Cobb Johnson, Matt Kuhlman, Ruben Lima, MISU, Alison Mosher, Kristen Phipps, Joseph Royer, and Bruce Thorn
Featuring live music with the Steve Knight Trio, cocktails, and passed d'oeuvres. Free parking available at Madron.
Madron Gallery
1000 W North Ave, Third Floor
Chicago, IL
Open House at Mana Contemporary
Kara Cobb Johnson will also have an open studio on April 13, 2024, Noon-4pm at Mana Contemporary.
Mana Contemporary
2233 South Throop St., #913
Chicago, IL
Paul Gerard Somers: Muscle Memory
Opening Receptions: March 29 and April 10
SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art opens a new exhibit, Muscle Memory, featuring work by Paul Gerard Somers, on Friday, March 29, 2024. We will celebrate the opening on March 29 from 5-8 pm and have another Opening Reception on Wednesday, April 10 from 6-10 pm during Expo Chicago week.
Paul’s commentary on cultural norms and values play out using unexpected materials and motifs such as sports paraphernalia, childhood toys, and images from popular media. From gender roles to politics and the economy, important topics are explored in playful yet impactful ways.
Paul is an interdisciplinary artist working in fiber, sculpture, painting, drawing, and performance.
He was born in Dayton, Ohio, and lived in several states before settling in Chicago. He received a B.A. from Ball State University, and an MFA from The University of Chicago in 2013.
Come join us for either reception and see wonderful new works by this innovative artist.
SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art
1527 N. Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60622
Gallery open:
Fridays, 5-7 p.m. Saturdays, 12-4 p.m.
and by appointment
Roland Biermann in Aesthetic Art Prize
Member and interdisciplinary artist (sculpture, installation) Roland Biermann has an exhibit of sculpturally-descriptive photographs in the Aesthetic Art Prize Exhibition 2024
Exhibition dates: 16 February - 21 April 2024
The artist writes: “The TWA Flight Center at New York's JFK airport, with its thin shell roof and four Y-shaped piers, feels like entering a huge walkable sculpture suggested a space experience in an era where intercontinental air travel barely existed and manned space missions were still a distant idea. As an artist working with sculpture and an interest in exploring change and transformation, it is especially the two tube-shaped, red-carpeted former departure and arrival corridors that provide an immersive experience today which, paradoxically, feels nostalgic and futuristic at the same time.
York Art Gallery
Exhibition Square
York YO1 7EW
York
United Kingdom
Hours; Wednesday–Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Lilach Schrag's shows
Lilach is in two other current exhibits:
A Place to Belong is a site-specific video installation that shows at The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens between March 22–April 29 as part of the sixth Jerusalem Biennale for Contemporary Jewish Art. It offers a possibility of an alternate existence in a world of fantasy where miraculous beings assimilate, recharge and persevere in nature.
Power: A Feminist Exhibition is a two-person show with Ginny Sykes at Prairie State College
Lilach’s work includes a circle of six life-size sculptures of female mythological characters from different cultures, and two large fabric panels featuring the Hesperides sisters from Greek Mythology. This body of work looks at powerful magical women who are also vulnerable and fighting for their survival.
Exhibition Dates: March 11 – April 11
Christopher Art Gallery
Prairie State College
Chicago Heights, IL
What We Leave Behind
Work by Toby Zallman Show continues through April 13, 2024
OS Projects, 601 6th Street, Racine, WI
The show’s title, What We Leave Behind refers to plastic waste blighting our planet which will take years to break down into the toxic chemicals from which it was made. It is Zallman’s hope that by creating alluring objects and visual experiences from the waste, while simultaneously foregrounding our complicity in ecological degradation, her project will support behavioral change.
More INFO
The following are not CSI-sponsored calls but may be of interest to our members.
St. Charles Sculpture in the Park
Deadline: Wednesday, April 24, 2024
The Sculpture Committee, St. Charles Park Foundation and the St. Charles Park District invite you to participate in the Annual Sculpture in the Park Exhibit located along the Fox River in beautiful Mt. St. Mary Park, St. Charles, Illinois.
St. Charles’ Sculpture in the Park endeavors to diversify and enrich each show by featuring a wide range of artistic expression.
New this Year: Sculpture in the Park is expanding into a year-round exhibit with increased stipend.
• The honorarium per chosen sculptor will be $1,500.
• Applications must be completed online using the submission form below.
Please apply online: https://www.stcsculpture.org/application
Feel free to email or call Erika Young, Sculpture Committee Member at eyoung@stcparks.org or (630) 513-4319.
Harborpark Sculpture Walk 2024-2026, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Application Deadline: Midnight, April 30, 2024
Review and Selection: May – July 2024
(Selected sculptures must be approved by City of Kenosha)
Artist Notification: No later than July 31, 2024
Installation Dates: September 18 and/or 19, 2024 (Anticipated)
The mission of the Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is to encourage and enhance cultural life and public art in the Kenosha (WI) area through facilitation, recognition, and financial support. The Arts Fund initiative, Sculpture Walk – HarborPark, is a sculpture walk consisting of a two-year installation of sculptors’ work for which each artist will receive an honorarium of $2,250.
Sculpture Walk – HarborPark is entering the 7th exhibit for the project. The Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is soliciting artists for the 2024-2026 Sculpture Walk-HarborPark Exhibit.
Selection criteria including but are not limited to:
Durable media, must withstand all weather elements, including high winds off Lake Michigan
Suitable for an outdoor setting and safe to the public
Represents diverse materials and perspectives
Overall appeal and aesthetic quality
Art-In-Architecture RFQ for Purchase of Artworks
The Art-in-Architecture Program of the Capital Development Board is pleased to announce a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to Illinois professional artists for the purchase of permanent original art for the College of Lake County (CLC), Lakeshore Campus in Waukegan, Illinois.
Type of media for this project is open and includes two-dimensional media such as painting, drawing, photography, textiles, collage, mixed-media, and small-scale three-dimensional pieces suitable for hanging.
The submission instructions for this RFQ are for purchase and not commission. Artists from the Waukegan area are especially encouraged to apply. Final Deadline: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 4:30PM. Applying before deadline is encouraged.
Art in the Park, Rock Falls, Illinois
Call for Entries
Deadline: Wednesday, June 1, 2024
With the continued success of our previous six years Art in the Park Sculpture Walk, Rock Falls Tourism is making preparations for our 7th year of bringing in amazing sculptures to our RB&W District. We are now accepting submissions for sculpture art to be on display at the RB&W District along the Rock River. This open space park is used by many organizations putting on events and draws people from surrounding communities and states, which will ensure a high amount of visibility for your art throughout the year. The RB&W District is also security monitored, 24 hours a day. The Art in the Park Sculpture Walk is also featured on the Otocast application for smartphones which provides an additional layer of exposure. Artists will be asked to record an audio component for this application, should their sculpture be chosen.
The Rock Falls Tourism Department has opened up the selection process to artists within the rest of the
state, as well as surrounding states. The sculptures will be installed at the RB&W District, on August 23, 2024. Artists will be given a $1,250 stipend and will be able to make their sculpture available for purchase.
For more information: HERE
For questions, contact Melinda Jones.
Submit Your News
Have any news to share?
Shows, awards, residencies etc? Submit here and we'll include them in an upcoming newsletter.
While you're at it, your profile and images on CSI’s website are important. When CSI applies for grants and upcoming shows, images are solely chosen from those you have uploaded to our website. Please take a minute to look over what you have posted and make sure you are presenting the best work. Member Shelley Gilchrist sgilchristart@gmail.com has volunteered to help you if you need it, so feel free to contact her.
CSI projects are partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.
March 2024 Newsletter
Artist Resource Happy Hour
Thursday, March 7, 2024
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Registration Page: https://tinyurl.com/AR-Happy-Hour
Fees/Admission:
$13 (includes your first cocktail)
$8 (includes your first non-alcoholic cocktail)
Location: Koval Distillery, 4241 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago
As a part of our commitment to supporting creative industry, GRCC and RCC are hosting an Artist Resource Happy Hour at KOVAL Distillery.
Come out to KOVAL’s beautiful tasting room to connect with fellow creatives and learn about resources and opportunities for local artists. We’ll be joined by representatives from:
Andersonville Galleria
Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE)
Chicago Sculpture International (CSI)
Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) & Ravenswood Community Council (RCC)
Loyola University Women and Leadership Archives
Lillstreet Art Center
Tickets include admission, your first drink, (N/A options available), and light snacks. Additional drinks will be available for purchase.
CSI Project Space and Gallery News
Self Portraits - for Chicago Sculpture International Project Space
Entry Deadline: Friday, May 3, 2024
CSI Project Space and Gallery, 1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Artists periodically ask themselves, “How am I doing?”. A closer look often inspires auto-biographical work. Objects are born of thoughts and feelings, then made from an examined life. Self | Portraits invites sculptors to check-in on their condition.
Curated by Thomas Plum
Applicants must be current CSI members. To sign-up for membership: www.chicagosculpture.org/become-a-member
3D work accepted – Sculptural installation work encouraged.
Open interpretations of the exhibit theme are welcomed.
Artists must install their own work.
An artist’s statement and short bio will be required for the accepted piece.
Contact Info: Name, address, phone, email, website
1 to 3 jpg images (+ image details): Title, medium, size, price with 30% donation to CSI added
Submit on this Google form here: https://forms.gle/YaAdqMopfC4bhpUL7
Exhibition Dates: June 8 – July 12, 2024
Notification: Wednesday, May 29 & Thursday, May 30
Artwork Drop-off: Saturday, June 1 & Sunday, June 2, from 1-5 pm.
Opening: Saturday, June 8, from 6-9 pm.
Artwork Pick-up: Saturday, June 13 & Sunday, June 14, from 1-5 pm.
Please Note: We request exhibiting artists to cover 1 to 2 gallery-sitting shifts during the show.
CSI Grants Committee News
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)
Deadlines for FY25
GAP 2: July 11, 2024 for project start date of June 1, 2025
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) provides funding to strengthen US arts/culture ecosystem
NEA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and mutual respect for diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups. Please see link for possible funding eligibility:
www.arts.gov/grants/grants-for-arts-projects/artistic-disciplines
CSI, as an arts organization can help support application processes for CSI members. If any member of CSI is interested to apply for any of of these grants please email: Anthony May - Grants Chair - anthonyheinzmay@chicagosculpture.org
Land Acknowledgement
The City of Chicago, and its surrounding areas, have always been and always will be, home to numerous Native American communities. As a team dedicated to the uplifting of Indigenous People's sovereignty everywhere, we recognize that each program and exhibition associated with this project is taking place on the traditional homelands of the Council of Three Fires - the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa - as well as the Menominee, Miami, and Ho-Chunk Nations. Further, we acknowledge that Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the US. We therefore invite each of our non-Indigenous colleagues to learn more about the forced removal of many of the communities listed above from the state of Illinois and to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their line of work. To provide immediate assistance to Native American Communities in Chicago, you can send donations to the city's American Indian Center here
Current CSI Exhibitions
CSI x ALMA: 2024 Chicago Sculpture International Juried Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors
Exhibition dates: April 12 - September 1, 2024
Opening Reception pARTy EXPO After Hours: Friday, April 12, 2024, 5 to 10 pm
with opening weekend, Saturday, April 13, and Sunday, April 14, 12 to 5 pm.
Both Indoor and Outdoor Sculptors were invited to enter up to three works for the Annual Spring Exhibition at ALMA Art and Interiors in Chicago, IL. The exhibition will coincide with Expo Chicago, International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, April 11- 24, 2024 Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois. Alma Art and Interiors, established 2021, is a contemporary fine art gallery in the historic Bridgeport Arts Corridor featuring over 80 artists in 10,000 sq. ft.
Exhibiting artists: Nikki Rene Anderson | Nicole Beck | Hilda deBruyne | Donna Castellanos | Michelle Corazzo | Ei Cullina | Brian Divis | Victoria Fuller | Musa Ghaznavi | Shelley Gilchrist | Karen Gubitz | Donna Hapac | Indira Freitas Johnson | Fred Klingelhofer | Yvette Kaiser Smith | Seoyoung Lee | Micheal Litewski | Luba Mendelevich | Ruth Aizuss Migdal | Bill Mitchell | Chris Newman | Connie Noyes | Kaia Olsen | Louise Pappageorge | Chris Perri | Nancy Lu Rosenheim | Olya Salimova | Dominic Samsone | James Stafford | Roberta Ulrich-de Oliveira | Nancy VanKanegan | Bruce Webber | Jamie Weinfurter | Chris Wubbena | Dan Yang | Toby Zallman
This exhibition is juried and curated by Kimberly Oliva and Gosia Korsakowski.
ALMA Art and Interiors
3636 S. Iron Street
Chicago, Illinois 60609
(847) 922-5736 or (224) 522-4525
Contact the gallery at: hello@almaartandinteriors.com
For general information about the exhibit: info@chicagosculpture.org
Drop off and installation dates:
March 4th, 10-5 and/or Sunday, March 10th, 12-5, as well as the March 15th, 11-8
Image credit: (left) Bruce Webber, Targets (right) Bill Mitchell, Amalgam
News from Project Space
Unfavorable Conditions
Exhibition dates: Feb. 17 - April 19, 2024
CSI Project Space and Gallery, 1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Thank you to all the artists for making the Unfavorable Conditions Exhibition and Opening successful.
Unfavorable Conditions reflect on the human ability to navigate internal and external storms and emerge on the other side transformed. This exhibit examines the resilience inherent in the human spirit, encouraging a collective acknowledgement of the strength that arises when faced with life's challenges.
Exhibiting Artists: Angela McElwain, Anthony Heinz May, Cherry Tung, Autumn Lundberg, Caroline Jacobson, Cherylle Booker, Dawn Liddicoatt, Deana Bada Maloney, Frederick Napoli, Howard Sandroff, Jill King, Julia Paloma, Karl Johnson, Kasia Kay, Laurie LeBreton, Lilach Schrag, Lori Rozdolsky, Michael Gallagher, Nancy VanKanegan, Maddy Lee, Pat Brutchin, Maeve McGale, Peter Gray, Set Gozo, Wallace Bowling, and Zelene Jiang Schlosberg
Curated by Micki LeMieux
Image credit: '(left) Porcelain Schoolbag by Cheuk Yan Cherry Tung, (center) Untitled by Howard Sandroff, (right) Claw Machine by Anthony Heinz May
Workshop: Carving Foam Sculptures with Jyl Bonaguro
Master the art of sculpting and carving foam in this hands-on workshop led by a professional sculptor.
Saturday, April 27, 2 to 4pm
Location: CSI Project Space
1912 North Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60647
What you'll learn in this foam carving sculpture class:
Let’s Carve Foam – Design, carve, and paint your own sculpture in foam during this 2 hour workshop class under the tutelage of professional stone sculptor, Jyl Bonaguro.
With techniques similar to carving stone but without all the sweat, you will explore the techniques of blocking, detailing, and finishing as you create a stunning masterpiece. No experience is necessary!
Details: Adults Only Ages 16+. No previous experience is required to participate. Materials are provided. Workshop is free but registration is required to participate.
Jyl Bonaguro is a Chicago-based sculptor and playwright with a professional studio in the Hermosa neighborhood. Jyl creates sculpture works of wings and the human figure in marble, limestone and mixed media for public and private art. Her sculptures have been featured in publications like CS Modern Luxury Interiors, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Reader, Newcity Art, and Sheridan Road and are in private art collections throughout the United States.
CSI Call for Entries
RFP: 2024-2026 Sculpture in the Parks
Application Deadline: Thursday, March 21, 2024, 11:59 PM CST
Chicago Sculpture International, in collaboration with the Chicago Park District and parks in the Chicagoland area, is inviting artists to submit proposals for the 2024-2026 Sculpture in the Parks exhibition season.
Works must be large-scale and suitable for outdoors. They will be installed on hardscape or softscape (grass), so artists must be prepared for either type of installation. Only select sites have concrete pads; all other sites are softscape. Sculptures will be on view for two years, from October 2024 to October 2026 (exact dates to be determined). Each sculpture will receive a stipend of $3000.
Eligibility: This call is open to professional artists who are at least 18 years of age. Artists whose proposals are accepted will be asked to join CSI if they are already not a member. There are many membership benefits, including exhibition and networking opportunities, a presence on our website and access to valuable professional information. See what we’re all about at: chicagosculpture.org/become-a-member.
For more information and application click HERE.
For questions, contact info@chicagosculpture.org
Member News
Howard Sandroff Interview in Northfield Life
Congratulations to CSI member Howard Sandroff. He is featured in this month's edition of Northfield Living magazine. Writer Paul Clements discusses Howard's artistic journey as a renowed classical music composer and sculptor.
What We Leave Behind
Work by Toby Zallman
Show runs February 10 - April 13, 2024
OS Projects, 601 6th Street, Racine, WI
The show’s title, What We Leave Behind refers to plastic waste blighting our planet which will take years to break down into the toxic chemicals from which it was made. It is Zallman’s hope that by creating alluring objects and visual experiences from the waste, while simultaneously foregrounding our complicity in ecological degradation, her project will support behavioral change.
More INFO
The following are not CSI sponsored projects
But may be of interest to our members:
Public Art Passport
Deadline: April 10, 2024
Artists from the Great Lakes states (Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, New York, and Pennsylvania) are encouraged to submit their artwork for the exhibition. Entries are being accepted now through March 30. Submissions will be reviewed and accepted by the Public Art Passport committee. After the committee reviews the entries, artists will be notified by April 10, 2024, if they are a finalist and their final acceptance status by April 15, 2024.
The Public Art Passport is a rapidly developing initiative that enhances the existing public art landscape while promoting and increasing visibility and tourism to the Great Lakes Bay Region. The 2024 summer exhibition will draw visitors to the area during this time of year when many are on their way “up north” and on vacation..
Click here for more details and to apply
Submissions will be reviewed and accepted by the Public Art Passport committee. Artists will be notified if they are a finalist by April 10, 2024 and their final acceptance status by April 15, 2024.
Contact for more information:
Ashley Ross, amross13@svsu.edu, 989-964-7125
Call for Entries:
Pentwater Public Arts: Sculpture Walk 2024/25
Deadline: March 15, 2024
Pentwater is a lakeside community in West Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan, north of Muskegon and south of Ludington. Well known by Great Lakes sailors, Pentwater is a vibrant tourist destination with an abundance of outdoor activities such as boating, camping, and beach going. It is home to Charles Mears State Park. Pentwater has several art galleries, is an active arts community, and is home to the Artisan Learning Center, and the Pentwater Arts Council which is a 501(c)(3) and the sponsor of this event.
They are planning to select 5 dynamic works for a one year commitment. Stipend is $3000.
More information and application can be found HERE.
Call for Entries: St. Charles Sculpture in the Park
Deadline: Wednesday, April 24, 2024
The Sculpture Committee, St. Charles Park Foundation and the St. Charles Park District invite you to participate in the Annual Sculpture in the Park Exhibit located along the Fox River in beautiful Mt. St. Mary Park, St. Charles, Illinois.
St. Charles’ Sculpture in the Park endeavors to diversify and enrich each show by featuring a wide range of artistic expression.
New this Year: Sculpture in the Park is expanding into a year-round exhibit with increased stipend.
The honorarium per chosen sculptor will be $1,500.
Applications must be completed online using the submission form below.
Click here for submission requirements, important dates and more details, please review the Propectus
Please apply online: https://www.stcsculpture.org/application
Feel free to email or call Erika Young, Sculpture Committee Member at eyoung@stcparks.org or (630) 513-4319.
Harborpark Sculpture Walk 2024-2026
Kenosha, WI
Application Deadline: Midnight, April 30, 2024
Review and Selection: May – July 2024
(Selected sculptures must be approved by City of Kenosha)
Artist Notification: No later than July 31, 2024
Installation Dates: September 18 and/or 19, 2024 (Anticipated)
The mission of the Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is to encourage and enhance cultural life and public art in the Kenosha (WI) area through facilitation, recognition, and financial support. The Arts Fund initiative, Sculpture Walk – HarborPark, is a sculpture walk consisting of a two-year installation of sculptors’ work for which each artist will receive an honorarium of $2,250. The Sculpture Walk – HarborPark is entering the 7th exhibit for the project. The Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is soliciting artists for the 2024-2026 Sculpture Walk-HarborPark Exhibit.
Selection criteria including but are not limited to:
• Durable media, must withstand all weather elements, including high winds off Lake Michigan
• Suitable for an outdoor setting and safe to the public
• Represents diverse materials and perspectives
• Overall appeal and aesthetic quality
Download the full RFP and application
Art in the Park - Call for Entries
Rock Falls, IL
Deadline: Wednesday, June 1, 2024
With the continued success of our previous six years Art in the Park Sculpture Walk, Rock Falls Tourism is making preparations for our 7th year of bringing in amazing sculptures to our RB&W District. We are now accepting submissions for sculpture art to be on display at the RB&W District along the Rock River. This open space park is used by many organizations putting on events and draws people from surrounding communities and states, which will ensure a high amount of visibility for your art throughout the year. The RB&W District is also security monitored, 24 hours a day. The Art in the Park Sculpture Walk is also featured on the Otocast application for smartphones which provides an additional layer of exposure. Artists will be asked to record an audio component for this application, should their sculpture be chosen.
The Rock Falls Tourism Department has opened up the selection process to artists within the rest of the
state, as well as surrounding states. The sculptures will be installed at the RB&W District, on August 23, 2024. Artists will be given a $1,250 stipend and will be able to make their sculpture available for
purchase.
For more information: HERE
For questions, contact Melinda Jones.
Submit Your News
Have any news to share?
Shows, awards, residencies etc? Submit here and we'll include them in an upcoming newsletter.
While you're at it, your profile and images on CSI’s website are important. When CSI applies for grants and upcoming shows, images are solely chosen from those you have uploaded to our website. Please take a minute to look over what you have posted and make sure you are presenting the best work. Member Shelley Gilchrist sgilchristart@gmail.com has volunteered to help you if you need it, so feel free to contact her.
Cover image: Anthony Heinz May, Claw Machine, Aluminum, mirror, marble, paint, LED and wire, 4-3/4 x 7-3/4 x 5-1/2 in.
CSI projects are partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.
February 2024 Newsletter
News from the Board
Welcome to our new President, Jyl Bonaguro!
Jyl Bonaguro’s works have been featured in publications like NewCity Art, CS Modern Luxury Interiors, the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Reader and Sheridan Road and are in private art collections throughout the United States. Select sculpture exhibitions include: SOFA Chicago, Scope Miami, Aqua Art Miami, “Nature in Motion” Lincoln Park Zoo IL, “Voices and Visions” at the Highland Park Art Center IL and “Intertwined” at the Korean Cultural Center IL. Her plays like Swan Soong have been sponsored by Loyola University Chicago, Columbia College Library, Zhou B. Center, Hinsdale Public Library and the Chinese American Museum of Chicago. She currently lives and works in Chicago, IL. Her latest carving project is the Modern Athena Sculpture.
CSI Project Space and Gallery News
Unfavorable Conditions
Opening: Saturday, Feb. 17, from 6-9PM
Exhibition dates: Feb. 17 - April 19, 2024
CSI Project Space and Gallery, 1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Join us for fun, conversation, and Art!
Unfavorable Conditions reflect on the human ability to navigate internal and external storms and emerge on the other side transformed. This exhibit examines the resilience inherent in the human spirit, encouraging a collective acknowledgment of the strength that arises when faced with life's challenges.
Image credit: 'Hidden' by Deana Bada Maloney
CSI Grants Committee News
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)
Deadlines for FY25
GAP 1: Feb 15, 2024 for project start date of Jan. 1, 2025
GAP 2: July 11, 2024 for project start date of June 1, 2025
Grants for Arts Projects (GAP) provides funding to strengthen US arts/culture ecosystem
NEA is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and mutual respect for diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups. Please see link for possible funding eligibility:
www.arts.gov/grants/grants-for-arts-projects/artistic-disciplines
CSI, as an arts organization can help support application processes for CSI members. If any member of CSI is interested to apply for any of of these grants please email: Anthony May - Grants Chair - anthonyheinzmay@chicagosculpture.org
Land Acknowledgement
The City of Chicago, and its surrounding areas, have always been and always will be, home to numerous Native American communities. As a team dedicated to the uplifting of Indigenous People's sovereignty everywhere, we recognize that each program and exhibition associated with this project is taking place on the traditional homelands of the Council of Three Fires - the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa - as well as the Menominee, Miami, and Ho-Chunk Nations. Further, we acknowledge that Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the US. We therefore invite each of our non-Indigenous colleagues to learn more about the forced removal of many of the communities listed above from the state of Illinois and to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their line of work. To provide immediate assistance to Native American Communities in Chicago, you can send donations to the city's American Indian Center here
Current CSI Exhibitions
Poetry of Sculpture
Chicago Sculpture International Juried Exhibition at Prairie State College – Christopher Art Gallery
February 5 – 29, 2024
Opening Reception: Wednesday, Feb 7, 2024 11 AM – 1:30 PM
Closing Reception and Pick up work: Feb. 29, 4-7PM
(work may be removed at 7PM)
Exhibiting Artists:
Michele Corazzo | Debra Couch | Darlys Ewoldt | Michael F. Gallagher | Beth Kamhi | Terry Karpowicz | Victoria Kowalczyk | Kelly Lawler | Laurie LeBreton | Margot McMahon | Ruth Aizuss Migdal | Louise Pappageorge | CV Peterson | Howard Russo | Zelene Jiang Schlosberg | Michele Thrane | Nancy VanKanegan | Lisa Nelson Raabe | Gina Lee Robbins
The exhibition will be juried and curated by Beth Shadur.
About the gallery: The Christopher Art Gallery gallery is located on the first floor
of the main campus building and consists of 1300 square feet.
Prairie State College
202 S. Halsted St.
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Gallery Hours:
Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on days that college is open.
For questions about the gallery: bshadur@prairiestate.edu
For general information: info@chicagosculpture.org
CSI Call for Entries
RFP: 2024-2026 Sculpture in the Parks
Application Deadline: Thursday, March 21, 2024, 11:59 PM CST
Chicago Sculpture International, in collaboration with the Chicago Park District and parks in the Chicagoland area, is inviting artists to submit proposals for the 2024-2026 Sculpture in the Parks exhibition season.
Works must be large-scale and suitable for outdoors. They will be installed on hardscape or softscape (grass), so artists must be prepared for either type of installation. Only select sites have concrete pads; all other sites are softscape. Sculptures will be on view for two years, from October 2024 to October 2026 (exact dates to be determined). Each sculpture will receive a stipend of $3000.
Eligibility: This call is open to professional artists who are at least 18 years of age. Artists whose proposals are accepted will be asked to join CSI if they are already not a member. There are many membership benefits, including exhibition and networking opportunities, a presence on our website and access to valuable professional information. See what we’re all about at: chicagosculpture.org/become-a-member.
For more information and application click HERE.
For questions, contact info@chicagosculpture.org
Member News
Howard Sandroff Interview in Northfield Life
Congratulations to CSI member Howard Sandroff. He is featured in this month's edition of Northfield Living magazine. Writer Paul Clements discusses Howard's artistic journey as a renowed classical music composer and sculptor.
What We Leave Behind
Work by Toby Zallman | OS Projects in Racine, WI
Opening: Saturday, Feb. 10, 1-3PM, artist talk at 2PM
OS Projects, 601 6th Street, Racine, WI
The show’s title, What We Leave Behind refers to plastic waste blighting our planet which will take years to break down into the toxic chemicals from which it was made. It is Zallman’s hope that by creating alluring objects and visual experiences from the waste, while simultaneously foregrounding our complicity in ecological degradation, her project will support behavioral change.
For more INFO
Fiat Lux
Nicole Beck has signed a contract with the City of Davis, CA to produce Fiat Lux, a 12' x 10' x 4' Stainless steel, dichroic and prismatic glass sculpture for Sycamore Park. The artwork is in remembrance of Karim Abou Najm, a UC Davis student who was tragically killed on April 23, 2023 while biking home. Following his death, his family, friends and the Davis community came together to honor his memory and initiated a fundraiser to create a space to remember and celebrate his life. The artwork signifies elements of Karim’s character, including emphasis on healing and connection and the ways the community has come together during a time of grief and turmoil.
Chicago artist Nicole Beck was chosen by Karim’s family to create a site-specific public sculpture. She met with Karim’s parents many times to learn about his life and the best way to honor him and the community; and the proposed design represents months of collaboration to arrive at something that would both honor Karim and be meaningful to the community at large.
The artwork symbolically captures the many facets of Karim’s light and brilliance, as well as his drive to connect and care for people. This artwork represents care and impact while providing an aspirational model for the community to continue to demonstrate intelligence, compassion and kindness. The central star is an abstract motif and connects with the constellation Phoenix, which often represents regeneration and restoration, integrated at the top of sculpture. A subtle image of Karim appears as the dominant star Aanka in that formation. The aspirational text reads FIAT LUX (Into the Light) and FREE SPIRIT, alluding to Karim's "free spirit".
The sculpture will be fabricated at Vector Custom Fabricating.
Render: Christopher Tedin
Hai-Wen Lin wins Hopper Prize
Congratulations to CSI member Hai-Wen Lin for winning the prestigious Hopper Prize. “The works made by these artists are shot through with powerful and blatant curiosity about the world around them and, more specifically, the imprints that this world makes on people”
Laura Phipps, Assistant Curator, Whitney Museum of American Art The Hopper Prize is a grant-making institution and online platform established to support emerging artists. It was founded in 2017 by artists for artists in honor of painter Edward Hopper. The prize provides financial assistance, exposure, and recognition to emerging artists worldwide. The Hopper Prize aims to bridge the gap between artist recognition and institutional support by providing unrestricted grants to talented individuals working in various media. The prize is awarded biannually, and winners are selected through a juried process. To see more of Hai-Wen Lin’s work, visit haiwenlin.com To learn more about The Hopper Prize, visit hopperprize.org
The following are not CSI sponsored projects
But may be of interest to our members
2024 Farm/Art DTour Call for Entries
Deadline: February 12
Wormfarm Institute is currently seeking artists to produce original, site-responsive installations for the 2024 Farm/Art DTour (October 5-14, 2024). Artists will install their works in farm fields after the last cutting of hay, to draw attention to the importance of what farmers do every day and the beauty and history of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area.
Learn more and apply on our website.
The Farm/Art DTour is a self-guided, 50-mile drive through the working farmlands of rural Sauk County, Wisconsin, punctuated by ArtWorks (large-scale temporary art installations), Field Notes (interpretive signage), pasture performances, roadside poetry, local food markets and more.
Individuals or teams, formally trained or self-taught, from all disciplines — who are interested in creating works that engage with the landscape and surrounding rural communities may apply. Finalists will be invited to an orientation in Sauk County this spring and receive a stipend to revise their proposals. Selected artists will receive support ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 to realize their work in the fall.
Photo credit: Curious Erratic of the Driftless by W. Scott Trimble, 2022 Farm/Art DTour; photo: Katrin Talbot
Call for Artists:
Sculpture/Obelisk and Viaduct Art Installation
Oak Park, IL
Deadline: February 20, 2024, 4PM
The Village is seeking qualifications from professional artists to create permanent, original, exterior public art installations to be located along Oak Park Avenue as part of the Oak Park Avenue Streetscape project.
Learn more HERE.
Further project information site images HERE.
18th Annual National Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition - Call for Entries
City of North Charleston, SC
Deadline: February 25, 2024
Sculpture artists from across the nation are invited to participate in the 18th Annual National Outdoor Sculpture Competition & Exhibition. Up to 14 sculptures will be juried into the exhibit and compete for cash prizes totaling up to $19,750. Accepted artists will receive a $1,250 honorarium check to assist with transportation, installation, de-installation, and incidental expenses. Once all pieces are installed, the juror will award Best in Show ($1000), Outstanding Merit ($500), and up to three Honorable Mentions ($250 each).
The juror for this year’s competition is Lauren Nye, Associate Curator at the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, TN.
Organized by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department and presented as a component of the annual North Charleston Arts Fest, this unique exhibition offers established and emerging artists the opportunity to display their inspiring and extraordinary sculptures throughout the picturesque North Charleston Riverfront Park, set along the banks of the Cooper River. An estimated 50,000 people visit this public park annually to enjoy the amenities located in the heart of the city's arts community.
Visit NorthCharlestonArtsFest.com to view the currently installed exhibition and updates on the 2024 festival schedule.
Visit HERE for more information and application.
Wall by Mark Chatterley (2023/24 Best in Show)
Call for Entries:
Pentwater Public Arts: Sculpture Walk 2024/25
Deadline: March 15, 2024
Pentwater is a lakeside community in West Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan, north of Muskegon and south of Ludington. Well known by Great Lakes sailors, Pentwater is a vibrant tourist destination with an abundance of outdoor activities such as boating, camping, and beach going. It is home to Charles Mears State Park. Pentwater has several art galleries, is an active arts community, and is home to the Artisan Learning Center, and the Pentwater Arts Council which is a 501(c)(3) and the sponsor of this event.
They are planning to select 5 dynamic works for a one year commitment. Stipend is $3000.
More information and application can be found HERE.
Call for Entries: St. Charles Sculpture in the Park
Deadline: Wednesday, April 24, 2024
The Sculpture Committee, St. Charles Park Foundation and the St. Charles Park District invite you to participate in the Annual Sculpture in the Park Exhibit located along the Fox River in beautiful Mt. St. Mary Park, St. Charles, Illinois.
St. Charles’ Sculpture in the Park endeavors to diversify and enrich each show by featuring a wide range of artistic expression.
New this Year: Sculpture in the Park is expanding into a year-round exhibit with increased stipend.
The honorarium per chosen sculptor will be $1,500.
Applications must be completed online using the submission form below.
Click here for submission requirements, important dates and more details, please review the Propectus
Please apply online: https://www.stcsculpture.org/application
Feel free to email or call Erika Young, Sculpture Committee Member at eyoung@stcparks.org or (630) 513-4319.
Harborpark Sculpture Walk 2024-2026
Kenosha, WI
Application Deadline: Midnight, April 30, 2024
Review and Selection: May – July 2024
(Selected sculptures must be approved by City of Kenosha)
Artist Notification: No later than July 31, 2024
Installation Dates: September 18 and/or 19, 2024 (Anticipated)
The mission of the Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is to encourage and enhance cultural life and public art in the Kenosha (WI) area through facilitation, recognition, and financial support. The Arts Fund initiative, Sculpture Walk – HarborPark, is a sculpture walk consisting of a two-year installation of sculptors’ work for which each artist will receive an honorarium of $2,250. The Sculpture Walk – HarborPark is entering the 7th exhibit for the project. The Kenosha Community Foundation Arts Fund is soliciting artists for the 2024-2026 Sculpture Walk-HarborPark Exhibit.
Selection criteria including but are not limited to:
• Durable media, must withstand all weather elements, including high winds off Lake Michigan
• Suitable for an outdoor setting and safe to the public
• Represents diverse materials and perspectives
• Overall appeal and aesthetic quality
Download the full RFP and application
Art in the Park - Call for Entries
Rock Falls, IL
Deadline: Wednesday, June 1, 2024
With the continued success of our previous six years Art in the Park Sculpture Walk, Rock Falls Tourism is making preparations for our 7th year of bringing in amazing sculptures to our RB&W District. We are now accepting submissions for sculpture art to be on display at the RB&W District along the Rock River. This open space park is used by many organizations putting on events and draws people from surrounding communities and states, which will ensure a high amount of visibility for your art throughout the year. The RB&W District is also security monitored, 24 hours a day. The Art in the Park Sculpture Walk is also featured on the Otocast application for smartphones which provides an additional layer of exposure. Artists will be asked to record an audio component for this application, should their sculpture be chosen.
The Rock Falls Tourism Department has opened up the selection process to artists within the rest of the
state, as well as surrounding states. The sculptures will be installed at the RB&W District, on August 23, 2024. Artists will be given a $1,250 stipend and will be able to make their sculpture available for
purchase.
For more information: HERE
For questions, contact Melinda Jones.
Submit Your News
Have any news to share?
Shows, awards, residencies etc? Submit here and we'll include them in an upcoming newsletter.
While you're at it, your profile and images on CSI’s website are important. When CSI applies for grants and upcoming shows, images are solely chosen from those you have uploaded to our website. Please take a minute to look over what you have posted and make sure you are presenting the best work. Member Shelley Gilchrist sgilchristart@gmail.com has volunteered to help you if you need it, so feel free to contact her.
CSI projects are partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.