(WTTW News)
Hyde Park Art Center, a nonprofit art center for contemporary art on Chicago’s South Side, announced Tuesday it has fully transitioned to a contribute-what-you-can model for all of its art classes.
The center first launched its Open Arts initiative in 2022 to offer 70% of art classes on a contribute-what-you-can basis. Now, the center has completed its transition to offer all art classes tuition-free in order to ensure more equitable access to artmaking, education and community engagement.
The decision to offer classes on a contribution-based model came in response to a call to action from the community, Co-Executive Director Jen Tremblay Chambers said in a news release.
“Our community asked us for better ways to alleviate the financial stress and economic barriers that can come with signing up for a class,” Tremblay Chambers said in a statement. “Many consider the school a second home, and we’re thrilled that tuition no longer gets in the way of their belonging.”
Hyde Park Art Center was able to implement a contribution-based model following a capital campaign that raised more than $17 million over several years, according to the release.
The center said patrons are invited to contribute what they can through financial donations, class participation, spreading the word via social media or however else they can.
Classes are housed at the center’s Oakman Clinton School and Studios, which offers more than 150 classes per year for all ages and skill levels. Classes range from skill-building courses such as painting and printmaking, to professional development programs for working artists such as critique feedback and grant writing workshops.
Contact Eunice Alpasan: @eunicealpasan | 773-509-5362 | [email protected]
