Celebrate Chicago's Visual Artists . . . Be part of Chicago Artists Month!

Chicago Artists Month, the annual citywide event to showcase Chicago's vibrant visual arts community, celebrates thirteen years in October. And, now is the time plan for it!

This month-long event, organized by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, includes exhibitions by both emerging and established artists, openings, panel discussions, neighborhood art walks, open studio tours and more!

In 2007, 220 galleries, museums, cultural centers and artist studio buildings throughout the city took part in the celebration.

"Chicago Artists Month shines the spotlight on our own visual artists - whether they are recent graduates or enjoy international acclaim." said Lois Weisberg, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. "Everyone can be part of the celebration."

Eligibility is simple. An organization or artist can be part of Chicago Artists Month by hosting a program that features one or more professional Chicago-based visual artists at a public venue in Chicago in October. There is no charge to participate and program partners benefit from the additional promotion in the Chicago Artists Month brochure, website and extensive public relations campaign.

This year's theme, "Artists and Issues that Matter," explores issues of particular interest and concern to artists and the art community. These could be of a political, environmental, moral, social, global or personal nature. Program partners are encouraged, though not required, to use this theme as they plan their program.

For more information on how to be part of Chicago Artists Month, go to www.chicagoartistsmonth.org and fill out the participation form by the May 15th deadline.