DCASE Artist Response & CityArts Programs Opening For Applications

The City of Chicago is facing a critical moment in its history as the COVID-19 pandemic amplifies systemic racism and the history of disinvestment on the South and West sides of the city and presents an opportunity to rebuild towards equity. Recognizing that artists have always played an important role in advancing the causes of justice and equity, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) seeks to support artists in developing projects that engage the public in a constructive, civic dialogue that will propel our collective action, facilitate progress, and make Chicago a model city for the nation as it faces the difficult work ahead.

Through this new Artist Response Program, DCASE will select 5–10 artists/artist teams to implement ambitious public art projects and 3–5 Re-granting Partners to distribute funds to artists. Artists/artist teams interested in applying for Direct Grants can download the guideline packet (PDF) and apply through Café online. Organizations interested in applying to be Re-granting Partners can download the guideline packet (PDF) and apply online through CyberGrants.

Additionally, the annual CityArts Program opens for applications Tuesday, January 19. The goal of DCASE’s CityArts Program is to encourage the attainment of artistic excellence and financial stability, and to incentivize innovation related to citywide priorities. Nonprofit arts and culture organizations of all sizes and across all artistic disciplines can apply for general operating grants and project grants focused on rebuilding and recovery across all artistic disciplines. Project grants will support initiatives that have the potential to impact the Chicago arts sector at large. Review eligibility requirements here.

  • To learn about Direct Grants, please join DCASE for a webinar on Friday, January 15 at 11AM: Register Online.

  • To learn about becoming a Re-granting Partner, please join DCASE for a webinar on Friday, January 15 at 2PM: Register Online.

  • To learn about the CityArts program, DCASE is hosting the following three workshops:

  • To hear directly from Commissioner Mark Kelly about the goals of this year’s programs, you are invited to attend a webinar on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 11AM-12PM: Register Online.

DCASE strives to provide a balanced portfolio of grants across the city and across all eligible disciplines and will prioritize projects in community areas that have been historically under-resourced. If you have questions and are not able to access these virtual meetings, if you need assistance in another language, and/or if you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to attend or apply please contact culturalgrantmaking@cityofchicago.org for assistance.

Updates, COVID-19Guest User