No matter your age, background, or views, art is deeply rooted in our being. It can be used as a vessel for unexplained feelings, a tool to experience connection or a vehicle for change. It’s how we tell our story.
For over 21 years, SkyART has provided free and safe spaces for youth to express themselves and explore the world beyond their neighborhoods. SkyART uses art programs to build connections not only on the South and West Sides of Chicago but in schools, community organizations, family homes, and even youth detention facilities. Creating these spaces and meeting youth where they are is essential to building a more just world where we are all connected and respected. I 🖤 ART 2022 featured a VIP viewing of Can you see me? a three-part exhibition produced collaboratively with Weinberg/Newton Gallery and Arts + Public Life to raise awareness regarding the US carceral system’s impact on Chicago communities. This exhibit, titled after a SkyART Just-Us participant’s poem, aims not only to highlight the humanity and potential of young people affected by the juvenile justice system but to create new, aspirational possibilities to use art as a tool for justice and healing.
If you missed it, you can still watch our video and donate:
For those who joined, we hope you enjoyed another year of celebrating and supporting SkyART at I 🖤ART and the VIP viewing of the Can you see me? exhibition. The first installation at Weinberg/Newton Gallery features work by young, incarcerated artists in SkyART’s Just-Us program alongside the works of famed artists and advocates such as Cheryl Pope, Ebony G. Patterson, and Jim Duignan. They explore themes of ascendance, innocence and freedom within their artwork. Between our passion and the care of our supporters, SkyART raised an incredible $130,000 for our programs during the event, but you can still make your mark by donating today! Remember, no amount is too small to make a difference.
We hope you share this link with anyone who couldn’t attend and consider visiting one of the Can you see me? exhibitions:
Can you see me? at Weinberg/Newton Gallery: 688 N Milwaukee Ave
October 14th, 2022 – December 17th, 2022
Can you see me? FREEDOM SPACE at Arts + Public Life: 301 E Garfield Blvd
October 21st, 2022 – December 16th, 2022
Can you see me? Envisioning the future at SkyART Studios: 3026 E 91st St
October 28th, 2022 – December 17th, 2022
For more information, visit http://canyouseeme.art
Thank you to our sponsors!
