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Who We Are
Arts of Life is a 501(c)3 non-profit founded in January 2000, with a shared vision: to create a person-centric, working artistic community and provide a work environment of equality and inclusion in Chicago.
Started by founding artist Veronica Cuculich and two co-directors, Arts of Life was launched with nine intrepid individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our shared vision grew from a passion for artistic expression and a need for an alternative system. Today we support over 80 artists.
For artists at Arts of Life, a career in the visual arts is an opportunity for meaningful employment. At our three professional art studios, each artist has their own studio space and works independently from individualized project plans or receives 1:1 visual arts facilitation to increase their artistic skill set. Artists earn a monthly stipend for participation in the program with eligibility to receive bonuses based on personal annual art sales. In 2021, we launched community programs in partnership with art centers in Evanston and Highland Park to engage more artists in their own communities. Click here to learn more about our current program offerings.
Click the image to view our Introduction to Arts of Life video, or watch on YouTube (opens in new window)
Our Vision
A rich creative arts community where artists with intellectual & developmental disabilities participate through leadership and collaboration.
Our Mission
Arts of Life advances the creative arts community by providing artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities a collective space to expand their practice and strengthen their leadership.
Our Values
- Inspiring Artistic Expression: The Arts of Life model supports creative decision-making and experimentation, creating a safe place to take risks while promoting self-confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Building Community: Arts of Life is a collective of professional artists built upon a foundation of collaborative decision-making and mutual respect.
- Promoting Self-Respect: Everyone at Arts of Life has both strengths and weaknesses. Within the community, we are fully accepted and encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves.
- Developing Independence: Our community members gain a sense of inner freedom through their creative practice and professional development, enabling us all to trust our own judgment and take personal and artistic risks.
Strategic Plan | FY21-24
Interested in Art of Life's three-year strategic plan? Check out the overview here.
Stay tuned for an update on our new strategic plan.
Join us in celebrating 25 years of Arts of Life! Through a groundbreaking exhibition, special events, and a commemorative book honoring 25 impactful artists, we’re reflecting on our journey of creativity and inclusion. Learn more about our past milestones and upcoming celebrations on Celebrate 25 Years with Arts of Life!
