Promotional image for "Vends + Vibes" arts marketplace featuring a bag with photos of outdoor event scenes, a "Vendor Open Call," and a deadline to apply by April 14. Includes logos for UChicago Arts and Arts & Public Life.

Are you a talented maker, artist, and/or creative entrepreneur with a passion for sharing your unique creations? Applications are now open for the annual Vends + Vibes Arts Marketplace! Apply now to be part of a cherished South Side tradition that brings community together and puts your work in front of the right audience. This is your chance to expand your customer base, connect with a legacy of South Side creativity, and showcase what makes your craft undeniable

Course flyer for "Arts + Public Life" at UChicago, featuring class details, quotes about the program, course schedule for Spring 2025, and contact information for instructor.

We are offering an APL course at UChicago in the Spring Quarter for UChicago undergraduate students to immerse in APL's dynamic work fostering neighborhood vibrancy through the arts, focusing on relationship building, community engagement, and cultural stewardship. Learn more below.

STAY IN THE KNOW!

Sign-up to receive news, events, updates, and opportunities from Arts + Public Life

 

Launched in 2011, Arts + Public Life (APL), an initiative of UChicago Arts at the University of Chicago, has been providing residencies for local artists and creative entrepreneurs, arts education for youth, and artist-led programming and exhibitions. We believe our greatest achievements are our relationships, and we want to thank you for a decade marked by meaningful exchange and ambitious cultural production.

Events and Programs

Make Your Reservation Today!

Check out the new APL event calendar to learn more about upcoming exhibitions, events, and programs at APL’s venues on the Arts Block, including the Arts Incubator, Green Line Performing Arts Center, L1 Retail Store, and the Arts Lawn.

All of our venues, Arts Incubator, Green Line Performing Arts Center, L1 Retail Store, and Arts Lawn, are wheelchair accessible. If you need additional accommodation in order to participate in our programs, you can include a note when you RSVP or contact us for assistance at artsandpubliclife@uchicago.edu.

Group of people celebrating indoors, with one woman taking a photo and others smiling and clapping, against a backdrop of framed artwork.

Arts + Public Life events are free and open to the public.

A Dynamic Hub of Exploration, Expression, and Exchange

Arts + Public Life fosters neighborhood vibrancy through the arts on the South Side of Chicago.

 

Artist Residencies

 

Arts Education

Exhibitions

 

Creative Entrepreneurship

Programs + Events

 

Cultural Stewardship

 

We can’t wait to see you on the Arts Block

A creative corridor in the heart of Washington Park, the Arts Block is a vibrant collection of cultural and commercial spaces on historic Garfield Boulevard. The Arts Incubator, Green Line Performing Arts Center, L1 Retail Store, and Arts Lawn are operated and managed by Arts + Public Life.

 

The Arts Lawn

335-347 E. Garfield Boulevard

Green Line Performing Arts Center

329 E Garfield Boulevard

L1 Creative Business Accelerator + Retail Store

319 E Garfield Boulevard

Arts Incubator

301 E Garfield Boulevard

SUPPORT SOUTH SIDE ARTISTS

Arts + Public Life (APL) thrives thanks to supporters who help foster the vibrant creativity happening every day on the Arts Block. Learn more about how you can be a part of sustaining a rich ecosystem of South Side artists, youth, and entrepreneurs.