The mission of the Chicago Artists Coalition is to build a sustainable marketplace for entrepreneurial artists and creatives. As pioneers in advocacy and professional development, we capitalize on the intersection of art and enterprise by activating collaborative partnerships and developing innovative resources. The Chicago Artists Coalition is committed to cultivating groundbreaking exhibitions and educational opportunities, and to building a diverse community of artistic leaders that defines the place of art and artists in our culture and economy.
CAC has been deeply rooted in Chicago’s artist community for 38 years. It was founded in 1974 by a group of artists who sought to create a better environment and future for the artistic community living and working in the Chicagoland area. In addition to building a supportive peer network for artistic development, the organization has also played an important role in city and regional arts advocacy. CAC was instrumental in the establishment of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs; proved vital in advocating for the Percent for Art Bill (now adopted by cities nationwide); and was directly involved in the creation of both the Illinois Arts Alliance (now Arts Alliance Illinois) and Chicago Artists Month, now celebrating its 16th year. Over the years, as the identity and needs of CAC’s members and artistic community have evolved, so too have CAC’s services and programs as a dynamic and responsive institution. Always endeavoring to be at the forefront of artist advocacy, CAC offers a unique hybrid of educational, professional development,and exhibition programming that empowers artists to realize their full creative potential while nurturing a community inspired by and devoted to them. In June 2011 CAC moved its headquarters to the art-centric West Loop neighborhood, home to many of the city’s leading contemporary art galleries and alternative exhibition spaces. CAC transformed the 8,000 square foot space to comprise nine working artist studios, two exhibition spaces that can also accommodate public workshops,and administrative office space.