In the Spotlight
Thirteen seasons in, First Monday Jazz remains one of the most beloved tradition on the Arts Block. This year, Arts + Public Life welcomes drummer, composer, and Chicago music fixture Clif Wallace II as season curator. In conversation with APL, Wallace reflects on the deep historical roots of jazz on the South Side, his vision for the 2026 lineup, and how the series continues to honor the musicians and venues that shaped an era. The Clif Wallace Big Band performs September 14 on the Arts Lawn—join us for the last show of the season!
STAY IN THE KNOW!
Sign-up to receive news, events, updates, and opportunities from Arts + Public Life
Arts + Public Life (APL) at the University of Chicago is a neighborhood platform for arts and culture in Washington Park. Grounded in cultural stewardship and community partnership, APL provides residencies for local artists and creative entrepreneurs, arts education for youth, and artist-led programming and exhibitions. Launched in 2011, APL is part of UChicago Arts in the Division of the Arts & Humanities.
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.
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.