Arts of Life, Chicago

The Arts of Life Summer Carnival and Fundraiser Event

2011-05-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Denise Joseph artsoflife@gmail.com

The Arts of Life Summer Carnival and Fundraiser Event

On June 18th, The Arts of Life will host a classic carnival and fundraiser in celebration of a community of people in the Chicago area, with and without disabilities, who create an artistic culture where they can realize their full potential.

This carnival is the perfect event for arts-supporters of all ages to take chances in the dunk tank, at the bucket toss, and as contestants at the premier of The Arts of Life game show, Art or No Art. The face-painting booth will transform carnival-goers into living works-of-art painted by The Arts of Life artists. Plus, raffle-prize winners will have a chance to take home an original artwork, created by an Arts of Life artist, as well as other fabulous prizes.

All your concession-stand favorites will be on hand featuring hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, Gatorade, and ice-cold Pabst Blue Ribbon.

The event will take place at The Arts of Life North Shore Studio located at 1963 Johns Drive, Glenview, IL 60025 on June 18th from 4-8 PM. Cost: $30 adults with advance tickets from http://www.artsoflife.org/events before June 11, 2011, or $40 for adults at the door. Kids under 12 are FREE.
Adult guests will receive 15 carnival tickets and kids will receive 7 tickets with admission to the event. Tickets can be applied toward games, food, and drinks. Raffle tickets will be accommodated separately.

The event is open to the public, and is made possible through the support of sponsors of The Arts of Life including Gatorade, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Ice Cream Team, Red Rabbit Catering, Quaker Oats and CityArts Grants.

For more information, contact artsoflife@gmail.com, or visit:
http://www.artsoflife.org
http://www.facebook.com/artsoflife
http://summercarnival.eventbrite.com

The Arts of Life is people, with and without disabilities, creating an artistic culture to realize their full potential. Opened in 2000, The Arts of Life was the first program in Chicago to provide employment in the arts for adults with developmental disabilities. The studio serves as both an alternative day program and creative epicenter for its artists. Funded partly by the Department of Human Services, The Arts of Life also greatly depends on fundraising efforts and grants to sustain its program.

Articles on The Arts of Life have appeared in the Chicago Reader, Time Out Chicago, Chicago Social, and the Chicago Tribune. The organization has also been featured on ABC, WCIU, CAN-TV, and Metromix TV. Artist's work can be viewed at 14 Starbucks locations throughout Chicago as well as many other generous businesses and cafes.

Place to Hide of Harry Potter

2011-05-17T07:56:00.001-07:00

Place to Hide of Harry Potter, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

The Band

2011-05-17T07:55:00.003-07:00

The Band, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Football and Basketball

2011-05-17T07:55:00.001-07:00

Football and Basketball, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Ron Weasley

2011-05-17T07:54:00.003-07:00

Ron Weasley, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Barack Obama in Court

2011-05-17T07:54:00.001-07:00

Barack Obama in Court, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Barack Obama

2011-05-17T07:53:00.003-07:00

Barack Obama, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Husband and Wife 2010

2011-05-17T07:53:00.001-07:00

Husband and Wife 2010, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

A Celebration of a Life

2011-05-17T07:52:00.003-07:00

A Celebration of a Life, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Music Cat

2011-05-17T07:52:00.001-07:00

Music Cat, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Superman Through the Clouds

2011-05-17T07:51:00.003-07:00

Superman Through the Clouds, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Superman Bending Steel

2011-05-17T07:51:00.001-07:00

Superman Bending Steel, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

More Circles Around Different Designs

2011-05-17T07:50:00.003-07:00

More Circles Around Different Designs, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

People Looking at Blown Leaves

2011-05-17T07:50:00.001-07:00

People Looking at Blown Leaves, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Different Big Balloons

2011-05-17T07:49:00.005-07:00

Different Big Balloons, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Up and Down Circle

2011-05-17T07:49:00.003-07:00

Up and Down Circle, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Lots of China House

2011-05-17T07:49:00.001-07:00

Lots of China House, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

London, England

2011-05-17T07:48:00.001-07:00

London, England, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

William the Life Guard

2011-05-17T07:47:00.003-07:00

William the Life Guard, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Franklin D. Roosevlet

2011-05-17T07:47:00.001-07:00

Franklin D. Roosevlet, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Thomas Jefferson

2011-05-17T07:46:00.003-07:00

Thomas Jefferson, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

John Adams 2nd U.S. President

2011-05-17T07:46:00.001-07:00

John Adams 2nd U.S. President, a photo by ARTS OF LIFE on Flickr.

Arts of Life Award Show 2011

2011-02-07T09:21:00.001-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Arts of Life Annual Awards Show and Fundraiser

Chicago- Join The Arts of Life on February 17th from 6 to 9 pm at the Irish American Heritage Center for their annual awards show and fundraiser. Once a year this awards show is held to honor the hard work and progress of Arts of LIfe artists. Alongside the ceremony is a an art sale featuring Arts Of Life artist's affordable and original works of art. Admission is $40 in advance, which includes beer donated by Two Brothers Brewing Company, hors d’ oeuvres pairing from Red Rabbit Catering, access to purchasing works of art and the chance to win cash in a raffle. All proceeds go directly back into The Arts of Life studio.

Year after year, The Arts of Life artists experiment, learn and teach each other, staff members and volunteers the meaning of art, community, perserverance and creativity. Awards for Most Improved, Artist of the Year, Rock Star, Bravery and Independence will be the centerpiece of the evening, as a gesture of gratitude for and celebration of Arts of Life artist's daily efforts to create exemplary art, succeed in personal goals, and support their community.

Where: Irish American Heritage Center - 4626 North Knox Avenue
Chicago, IL 60630

When: Thursday, February 17th, 6 pm to 9 pm

pertinent links:
http://www.artsoflife.org
http://www.twobrosbrew.com/

The Arts of Life
We are people with and without disabilities creating an artistic culture to realize our full potential.
#####

Heartside studio, Grand Rapids

2010-10-29T07:55:00.001-07:00

fuzzy jane
Originally uploaded by Heartside Gallery and Studio

Cosmic! Jean is currently making a similar painting to this one from Heartside studio in Grand Rapids, The Director, Sarah, is getting a tour of our studio as we speak!

Untitled

2010-10-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Untitled

2010-10-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

Untitled

2010-10-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

We did it!

2010-10-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Kinzie Corridor Art Walk Block Party

2010-08-12T03:33:00.001-07:00

CHICAGO, IL -- The 2nd Kinzie Corridor Art Walk Block Party will be held August 14th and 15th near the corner of Damen and Carroll Ave. The Art Walk Block Party is an open studio and music festival which opens the event to artists from all over Chicago by providing street spaces for artists and craftspeople to sell their work. This year, The Kinzie Corridor Art Walk Block Party has 12 open studios, 10 rock bands, and 20 artists selling their work on Carroll Ave.

The Art
Neighborhood artists and artist services opening their studios to the public for the weekend will be: Kevin O'Rourke, the Arts of Life, Woodwork By Lou, Lee Tracy, Solstice Art Source, Art Services Chicago, Catherine Jasek, Aloft Circus Arts, Judy Bonem, Frames Graphics Studio, and Dennis Johnson.

Artists showing their work at tables or tents will be Jodet Shuquem, Clarence Lindsey, King Art Collective, Project Onward, Nina Bargielski, Lydia Bargielski, Kevin O’Rourke, Jessica Wagner, Matthew Shelton, Spudnick Press, Mike Lenkowski, Lynnda Pardoe, Juana Ryan, CHIRP Radio, Jackie Orozco, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Illinois Art Therapy Association.

The Music
Bands will be performing on the street on both days starting at 3 pm and finishing by 7 pm. The performances will be emceed by comedy duo the Puterbaugh sisters.

Saturday’s schedule includes Samwell, Aloft Circus Arts, Descarga, and Get Up with the Get Downs.

Sunday’s schedule includes the Hollows, Aloft Circus Arts, Velcro Lewis, The Thin Man, and DHF express.

Samwell - His mix of catchy pop, electronica and comedy has garnered him over 30 million views on YouTube and secured him an appearance on Comedy Central’s Tosh.0. His music was also prominently featured on an episode of South Park.

Aloft Circus Arts - Often referred to as the local Cirque du Soleil, these performers will wow you with their cutting edge aerial spectacular that will leave you momentarily speechless - until you run to tell your friends about them of course.

Get Up with the Get Downs - This funk and soul ensemble will get the crowd dancing with their stellar brass section, frontman Izzy's endless energy, and their irresistible funk groves. Wallflowers need not attend.

Puterbaugh Sisters - These sisters from Ohio have been performing since their Grandma was the sole member of their audience and it shows. Their innovative humor will catch your attention in between performers and might even steal the show.

The Hollows - Chicago girl-group sensations. The love-child of the Shangri-Las and the Misfits.

The Velcro Lewis Group - Chicago retro revivalist that play good old fashioned rock n roll that doesn’t say “please” or “thank you.” The way it should be.

The Thin Man - If scotch whiskey could make music this is what it would sound like. Too bluesy to be folk and too folk to be pure rock, the only thing that is certain is there is never a dull moment in their songs.

DHF Express - More than just a soulful, high-energy band, DHF Express is on a mission: frontman Adam Hines and bassist Louis DeMarco are young men with autism, and both are talented visual artists. Hines and DeMarco are members of Project Onward, a studio program for artists with special needs at the Chicago Cultural Center.

For the kids
For attractions sure to please the kids, we have a Bouncy House provided by The Fun Ones, roaming jugglers and stilt-walkers from Aloft Circus Arts, and pretzel-twisting demonstrations that are tasty and fun from Kim and Scott’s pretzels.

About the Kinzie Corridor Arts Association The Kinzie Corridor Arts Association is a group of local artists within the Kinzie Industrial Corridor which exists to share information, resources and promotion in an effort to strengthen and support a centralized artist community.
More information is available at www.kinziecorridorarts.com
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# # #

warm up

2010-05-28T08:24:00.001-07:00

warm up
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Getting ready for the Summer Exhibit performance !!

Perhaps 15 Pounds

2010-05-03T17:37:00.001-07:00

Perhaps 15 Pounds
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Carolyn Kelly
2010
Mixed Media on Paper
13.75 x 12.5 inches
$260

With All His Heart

2010-05-03T17:36:00.001-07:00

With All His Heart
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Carolyn Kelly
2010
Mixed Media on Paper
23 x 12.5 inches
$200

Rib Cage

2010-05-03T17:35:00.001-07:00

Rib Cage
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Carolyn Kelly
2010
Mixed Media on Paper
20.5 x 9 inches
$200

Music Cat

2010-05-03T17:33:00.003-07:00

Music Cat
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Jean Wilson
2010
Mixed Media on Panel
22 x 17 inches
$200

Leaf

2010-05-03T17:33:00.001-07:00

Leaf
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Kelly Stone
2010
Mixed Media on Paper
14 x 11 inches
$100

Heaven from Darksiders

2010-05-03T17:32:00.001-07:00

Heaven from Darksiders
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Jenny Kominsky
2010
Colored Pencil
$70

Capitol of Israel

2010-05-03T17:31:00.003-07:00

Capitol of Israel
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Jenny Kominsky
2010
Colored Pencil
12x18
$220

Starry Night

2010-05-03T17:31:00.001-07:00

Starry Night
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Starry Night

Jenny Kominsky
2010
Acrylic on canvas
$200

Spring Flowers

2010-03-22T13:47:00.001-07:00

Spring Flowers
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Now available in our gallery!

Go and See the reptiles

2010-03-22T13:46:00.001-07:00

Go and See the reptiles
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

available at BITE restaurant - being installed this Wednesday, March 24

Mrs. Puff

2010-03-22T13:36:00.001-07:00

Mrs. Puff
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Only $60 !!!!
will be available at the Glam Buccaneer event at Fulton Street Collective on Saturday!!

2 Did

2010-03-09T06:39:00.001-08:00

2 Did
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Now Available

Apple Orchard

2010-03-09T06:35:00.001-08:00

Apple Orchard
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Just in time for Spring, "Apple Orchard" by Josh

Lady Playing Cards and Drinking Beer

2010-03-09T06:34:00.001-08:00

Lady Playing Cards and Drinking Beer
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New from Frances, from her new series, images inspired by post-impressionists

The Pope and His Dog

2010-02-18T14:04:00.001-08:00

The Pope and His Dog
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

this is framed and ready to take home!

Mural

2010-02-09T14:59:00.001-08:00

Mural
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Girl Fish

2010-01-26T06:46:00.001-08:00

Girl Fish
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Veronica Cuculich
2009
Mixed media on Paper
8 x 14 inches

Wine Event

2010-01-26T06:45:00.001-08:00

Wine Event
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Alexander Scott
2009
Acrylic on Canvas
4 x 5 inches

$50

Love Hearts

2010-01-26T06:44:00.001-08:00

Love Hearts
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Debbie Vasquez
2009
Mixed Media on Paper
12.5 x 11.5 inches

$100

X

2010-01-26T06:43:00.001-08:00

X
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Debbie Vasquez
2009
Mixed media on Paper
17 x 14.5

$200

Two houses with Green Clouds

2010-01-26T06:38:00.003-08:00

Two houses with Green Clouds
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Stefan Harhaj
2009
Acrylic on Panel
12 x 9 inches

$200

Colored Trees

2010-01-26T06:38:00.001-08:00

Colored Trees
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Kelly Stone
2009
Mixed Media on Paper
15.5 x 12 inches

$150

Puppet Collage

2010-01-26T06:36:00.001-08:00

Puppet Collage
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Design Cross

2010-01-26T06:35:00.001-08:00

Design Cross
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

The Eggs With Claws

2009-10-28T06:20:00.001-07:00

The Eggs With Claws
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New from Jean

Puppets

2009-10-28T06:19:00.001-07:00

Puppets
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New from Debbie

Smiling Sun

2009-10-28T06:17:00.001-07:00

Smiling Sun
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New simple and charming smiling sun from Debbie Vasquez

Roller Skates

2009-10-28T06:16:00.001-07:00

Roller Skates
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New from Lillian

artist Ronnie Cuculich at BITE

2009-10-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hey - we've just hung a whole show just of Ronnie at Bite!!! on Western and Cortez
Check it out!

Whoop Dee Doo

2009-10-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

We had a great time taping the TV show Whoop Dee Doo on October 2nd. It was awesome!!!!

Horse

2009-09-16T06:36:00.001-07:00

Horse
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

A great gift for the folk art lover.
A charming horse with a glass eye. from Jean Wilson

Franklin D. Roosevlet

2009-09-16T06:34:00.001-07:00

Franklin D. Roosevlet
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

An emotional portrayal of the legendary F.D.R.

Black Lagoon

2009-09-16T06:33:00.001-07:00

Black Lagoon
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

5 foot 5 inches window. New from David

What to do with Icewater

2009-09-16T06:30:00.001-07:00

What to do with Icewater
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Beautiful large mixed media work on paper by Carolyn Kelley

Girl with Blue Squares

2009-09-16T06:29:00.001-07:00

Girl with Blue Squares
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Only $50. Get it while you can!

Arts of Life Band is ... RECORDING

2009-09-02T15:07:00.001-07:00

spent a great day with Tom from CPE Sound http://www.cpesound.com/
He was very friendly and efficient. We have the basic tracks completed for Good Morning America, Shark Attack, I like Rain, Summertime Summertime Fun, and Bells and the Dog!

Horsey Horsey Horsey

2009-08-28T06:34:00.001-07:00

Horsey Horsey Horsey
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Lovely new work from "Grandma" (Ronnie Cuculich)

Good Pink

2009-08-28T06:32:00.001-07:00

Good Pink
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Robert Verran is on a roll, ladies and gentlemen. Get this while you can!! only $250

Light in Green Grass

2009-08-28T06:30:00.001-07:00

Light in Green Grass
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Soft and subtle new work from Kathy McDonald. Mixed media on wood

John F. Kennedy, 35th President

2009-08-28T06:29:00.001-07:00

John F. Kennedy, 35th President
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

The latest in Daniel's president series, JFK himself.
Only $250.

Bop

2009-08-28T06:28:00.001-07:00

Bop
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

"Bop" by Jean Wilson. This large piece is sure to attract attention and create conversation!

Web of Love, Web of Hate with Record

2009-08-28T06:26:00.001-07:00

Web of Love, Web of Hate with Record
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Fascinating new window painting from Gaby Carroll!

Summer Trip

2009-08-28T06:22:00.001-07:00

Summer Trip
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

A beautiful medium size abstract for modern sensibilities.
"Summer Trip" by Carolyn Kelley
Mixed media on panel

Duck

2009-08-28T06:21:00.001-07:00

Duck
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

"Duck" by our new artist, Josh Wykes
Acrylic on wood, an attractive and sturdy little piece

Blue Water

2009-08-27T06:25:00.001-07:00

Blue Water
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New from Bobby Verran!
About 14x18 inches
Acrylic on marble and wood

Michael Jackson Thriller

2009-08-27T06:24:00.001-07:00

Michael Jackson Thriller
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

new from Daniel Brendel, in honor of Michael Jackson

Forest Cabin

2009-08-10T14:13:00.001-07:00

Forest Cabin
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Check this out at BITE restaurant!

Rainbow Bright

2009-08-10T14:12:00.001-07:00

Rainbow Bright
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

this is hanging at the BITE restaurant now

Sailboats

2009-08-10T14:11:00.001-07:00

Sailboats
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

This is now at Bite. We have about 20 pieces from Mark hanging at BITE, and awesome veg-friendly restaurant at Western and Cortez, next to the Empty Bottle

Power Rangers

2009-08-10T14:09:00.001-07:00

Power Rangers
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Framed and ready for you! the Power Rangers!!!

More Flowers Turning Different Colors Hang On The Fence

2009-07-17T06:34:00.001-07:00

More Flowers Turning Different Colors Hang On The Fence
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

the latest from Frances. Get this cute little painting for only $100

Vampires from Jean

2009-07-17T06:33:00.001-07:00

Vampire
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

Nice bright and bold new piece from Jean in blood red!!!

New from Jean

2009-07-17T06:29:00.001-07:00

L'arche Shirt
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

'L'arche Shirt"
large colorful window piece for $300

Puppy Love

2009-05-28T15:08:00.001-07:00

Puppy Love
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New in the gallery, from Jean Wilson. A unique mixed media piece for dog lovers or anyone who enjoys a great artwork!

Colors Through Trees

2009-05-28T14:58:00.001-07:00

Colors Through Trees
Originally uploaded by ARTS OF LIFE

New in the Gallery from Francis, a bold new tree design with joyous snowflakes and bright primary colors

2009-05-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered how you could help out the Arts of Life artists and studio? Perhaps you have wanted to donate an item, some money, or your time but haven't had the chance. We'd like to share with you a quick and easy way to help out.

We've created an online wish list with Amazon.com that shows items, ranging from books and art brushes to furniture and musical equipment, that the Arts of Life would truly appreciate and use. Every item counts and with your help, we can continue to be a place where personal growth flourishes.

Click the button below to browse our wish list and remember, every item counts. Thank you!

–Your friends at the Arts of Life.

B.U.I.L.D project art demo

2009-04-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/arts_of_life/sets/72157617176784763/

In the Gallery: Blue Jesus, Blessed Mother

2009-04-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

title: Blessed Mother
artist: Ronnie Cuculich
size: 5 x 7 inches
media: Collage with Paint
donation: $ 50.00 ($80 for pair)

title: Blue Jesus
artist: Ronnie Cuculich
size: 5 x 7 inches
media: Collage with Paint
donation: $ 50.00 ($80 for pair)

In the Gallery: 2 Blue Flowers, Red Flowers

2009-04-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

title: 2 Blue Flowers
artist: Debbie Vasquez
size: 5 x 7 inches
media: Mixed Media on Wood
donation: $ 60.00 ($ 100 for pair)

title: Red Flower
artist: Debbie Vasquez
size: 5 x 7 inches
media: Mixed Media on Wood
donation: $ 60.00 ($ 100 for pair)

In the Gallery: Colored Sticks

2009-04-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

title: Colored Sticks
artist: Mark Germanos
size: 37 x 23 inches
media: Acrylic on Wood
donation: $ 250.00

In the Gallery: 6 Things

2009-04-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

title: 6 Things
artist: Jean Wilson
size: 27 x 32 inches
media: Acrylic on Glass
donation: $ 150.00

Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art 2008

2008-04-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Arts of Life at the Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art 2008

From April 25th to the 28th The Arts of Life will be exhibiting and selling original art at the Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art. The show is located at Chicago's infamous Merchandise Mart as a part of Artropolis, a citywide celebration of arts, antiques and culture. 29 other organizations and galleries will be present, traveling from states as far as New York, Tennessee, Montana, Washington and more. Doors open at 11am every day of the show and close at 7pm on Friday and Saturday, 6pm on Sunday and 3pm on Monday. For more information on location and schedule please visit http://www.art.org/intuitshow/index.htm

The works of The Arts of Life artists will bring a variety of artistic mediums and styles to the show. From abstract, to pop, visually poetic and avant-garde interpretations of form, figure, architecture and emotion, The Arts of Life artists are adept at creating exceptionally evocative, unique and decorative works of art. …..Enter something here about a few specific artists and what they are painting now….like--- Dave is exploring the dualities of urban culture with his depictions of wild animals within the cityscape…..

Since 2000 The Arts of Life has provided developmentally disabled adults with an artist community that promotes personal growth and creative expression. As the first program in Chicago to provide employment in the arts for adults with developmental disabilities, The Arts of Life has always recognized the power of art to improve the quality of life of those who practice, study and create on a regular basis. Within the population of disabled adults the options of employment are limited; The studio serves as both a day center and creative home for its artists. Funded partly by the Department of Human Services, The Arts of Life also greatly depends on fundraising efforts and grants to sustain its program. Articles on The Arts of Life have appeared in the Chicago Reader, Chicago Time Out, Chicago Social and the Chicago Tribune. Artist’s work can be viewed at 12 Starbucks locations throughout the City as well as Janik's Café, Near North Animal Hospital, European Furniture Warehouse, and April Sevens. Recent TV spots include CAN-TV and Metromix.

The Arts of Life
2110 W. Grand Ave. Chicago IL 60612 (312) 829-2787

Contact: Ryan Shuquem (312) 829-2787
private cell, do not publish – (773) 816-9225

Welcome David

2008-03-04T14:31:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on making it through orientation!

David Kreuger

To me, art makes me really happy about myself. It makes me feel happy to experience the different colors.

I like to draw anything that comes to my mind. Circles, triangles, ovals, hexagons, the Hulk. I like to do mountains and the Special Olympics.

I like people, it reminds me of my father. I miss him, he passed away, my mother and grandmother passed away too, so I like to draw pictures of them. I’m inspired by family members I’ve lost, and my dog who passed away, he was my best bud. I draw him all the time.

I like to have fun. I like to do new things. I just started doing paintings. I like all techniques. Oh yeah! Experiment on everything. I want to try new everything everyday like painting, making collages, drawing, sculptures, like statues. I want to make my own DVD.

I get my ideas from TV and magazines, comics, and storybooks. I want to make wonderful pictures. I want to be one of the guys on TV, like Ben Gold. I like to see my pictures come to life. I want to put my pictures on the computer and make animations and put my pictures on TV.

I’d like to make more music, like “Bombs Away, “ “Merry Christmas, “ or “Let’s Fly Away.. Come On, Come on.”

Welcome Gaby!

2008-03-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on making it through orientation!

Gaby Carroll

I’ve been doing art since I was a little but I didn’t know I was this good until I came to work here and I love my job!

I paint on windows. I like painting on the glass.

My Coral scene was my first window and I couldn’t think of anything to do with that window and I started making a design on it and it just looked like coral.

My Jerusalem painting was inspired by a trip to Israel in ’06.

My Grandma painting is inspired by Grandma. She’d been sick for a long time and during my try-out days at Arts of Life, she showed me the painting and brushes and everything, and I miss her.

Welcome New Artists!

2008-03-04T14:04:00.001-08:00

Arts of Life is happy to have some great new artists in our community! Stefan Harhaf and Jean Wilson

Jean Wilson - Jean came from ______ and joined us in ______

Stefan Harhaj......