April Showers at Art City and CFAS
April at Art City: New Exhibits, Easter Hours, and More!
April is here, and at Art City, we’re celebrating the season with exciting events and exhibitions that are sure to inspire. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for something fresh to enjoy, we've got you covered. Here’s a quick peek at what’s coming up this month!
Opening Reception: New Exhibits by Emma Martini, Catie Burill, and miar
Friday, April 4th | 5-9 PM
Join us for an evening of creativity and conversation at the Opening Reception of our latest gallery exhibition! This show features work from three incredible artists: Emma Martini, Catie Burill, and miar. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the space, offering something for everyone. From bold contemporary pieces to more thought-provoking, introspective work, this exhibition is not to be missed.
We are particularly excited to showcase Catie Burill, a Chicago-based fiber artist whose work celebrates divergent minds through salvaged materials. Catie's series Stones of Folly draws inspiration from Hieronymus Bosch’s The Extraction of the Stone of Madness (also known as The Cure of Folly), which depicts a doctor removing a so-called “stone of folly” from a patient’s head. In her vibrant wall sculptures, Catie challenges the traditional notion of madness as a mere pathology, embracing its complexity and reinterpreting societal perceptions of mental health with humor, theatrics, and camp.
Catie’s art explores outsider narratives, mad identity, and storytelling through intricate stitchwork. Her work reflects her years of traveling across the U.S. on Greyhound buses, in cargo vans, and even on a circus train—experiences that have shaped her unique perspective. Stones of Folly features playful yet poignant narratives crafted from found materials like Lake Michigan pebbles, faux fur, 90s beads, and nostalgic trinkets, as well as inspirations from pop culture figures like Dolly Parton and Britney Spears. These materials serve as a vehicle for Catie to blend humor and pathos, offering a fresh take on how we view the mind and its perceived "madness."
Additionally, we’re thrilled to feature Emma Martini, a Chicago-based artist whose work delves deep into the complexities of human psychology, perception, and connection. With a background in psychology, Emma's mixed-media pieces explore the emotional and surreal aspects of the human experience. She combines elements like paint, ceramics, and natural materials to create work that reflects the intricacies of internal processes and our relationship to nature and one another.
Emma’s art is influenced by surrealism, focusing on how our minds shape our understanding of reality. In today’s political climate—reminiscent of the early surrealist movement—her pieces create new, often unsettling realities. The work invites viewers to reflect on the way we perceive ourselves, others, and the world around us, while also highlighting the grounding connection to nature and the collective human experience. Her pieces aim to evoke both a sense of unease and calm, encouraging deeper reflection on the complexities of perception and emotional well-being.
Come by between 5 and 9 PM to mingle with the artists, explore their new pieces, and enjoy light refreshments. Whether you're a long-time Art City visitor or a first-time guest, we guarantee you'll find something that speaks to you. Plus, it’s a great way to kick off your weekend!
Closing this Month: CFAS Figures Call for Artists
Submission Deadline: Friday, April 18th
We’re excited to announce that the deadline to submit your work for CFAS Figures 25 is fast approaching! We invite artists to submit works that explore the human figure, celebrating its complexity, beauty, and diversity. This exhibition seeks to showcase a wide range of interpretations—from traditional representations to innovative, contemporary depictions. Whether through realistic portrayals or abstract expressions, we encourage artists to explore the body’s shape, movement, and symbolism in a way that reflects both the universal and the personal.
We welcome submissions in all media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and digital art. This exhibition is an opportunity to reflect on the profound role the human form plays in art history and its ongoing relevance in contemporary artistic practice.
Submission Requirements:
$26 per submission or $52 for three submissions (Pay through our website)
Artist Statement
Images MUST be filed in this format: Name_Title.jpeg (ex: JaneDoe_Title.jpeg)
Images must be at least 300 DPI
All submissions must be received by April 18th, 2025
We look forward to seeing how you engage with the human figure for this exciting exhibition!
We STILL Want Your Prints! Call for Printed Artwork
CFAS is looking for artists with prints that are made and ready to sell! CFAS participates in art festivals around the Chicago area year-round and can sell your artwork at our booth or table, to make it available to more customers. Some festivals we participate in include the Andersonville Galleria, West Loop Art Festival, West Fest, Wells Street Art Festival, Mayfest, and more. Artists who submit to our Call for Prints are also eligible to be part of our Featured Artists group, with an opportunity for inclusion in a group show or solo show.
Submission Requirements
$13 per Image
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Submit your artwork and its’ information through our Call for Prints Submission Form, located under the Call for Artists tab on our website (chicagofineartsalon.com)
Join CFAC for Curated Calls for Art & Artist Opportunities
Chicago Fine Art Salon is proud to introduce our new Art Club! Our monthly subscription service will give you a quick glance at all of the art opportunities in the Chicago area and beyond! We know how busy an artist’s schedule can be, so we want to provide a service that allows upcoming artists to browse what’s available to help further their careers by reaching a broader audience. All Calls for Art are 18+, and under $50 for admission.
Join or learn more about our available tiers by visiting our website!
Discover Your Creative Side: Art Classes & Events at CFADrawing
At CFADrawing, we believe everyone has the potential to create something beautiful. Whether you're just starting your artistic journey or you're looking to refine your skills, we offer a wide variety of classes and events to cater to all levels of experience. From private lessons to fun, social Paint n Sip events, there's something for everyone.
Private Drawing & Painting Lessons (Tuesday to Friday)
For those looking for one-on-one instruction, we offer private drawing and painting lessons every weekday from 11 AM to 2 PM. These sessions are designed to cater to your individual artistic goals, whether you're working on a personal project or simply looking to improve your technique.
Pricing Update: The rate for private lessons is now $75 per hour. If you'd prefer a 2-hour session, it’s $150. Live models can be arranged for an additional fee should you wish to explore figure drawing or add another layer to your practice.
Academic Beginners Drawing & Painting Classes (Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
We also offer academic drawing and painting classes for beginners, held every Tuesday and Wednesday evening from 6 PM to 9 PM. These classes are perfect for those who are just starting out and want a structured approach to learning.
Pricing Update: The price for these classes is now $100 per session for a 3-hour class. All materials are included for the first month. We also offer a 5-week package for $400 (with one week free), which is a great way to commit to your artistic development and save!
Dive into the basics of drawing, shading, color theory, and more with expert instruction to help guide you on your creative journey.
Friday Night Art Party - Paint n Sip (7-9 PM)
Need a fun way to unwind at the end of the week? Our Friday Night Art Party is the perfect opportunity to socialize and explore your creative side. From 7-9 PM, join us for our BYOB Paint n Sip event, where you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, sip your favorite drink, and create a painting with step-by-step guidance from our instructors. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend!
Saturday Night Paint Your Date (6-8 PM)
Looking for a unique and fun date night? Our Paint Your Date event, happening on Saturday from 6-8 PM, is the ideal way to bond with your partner while creating art together. You’ll work on a painting that reflects your relationship, and the best part is you don’t need to be a seasoned artist to have a great time!
Weekend Paint n Sip Sessions (Saturday & Sunday, 2-4 PM)
If you're free during the weekend, we offer Paint n Sip sessions on both Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 PM. Whether you want to relax with friends, meet new people, or just have some fun while sipping on your favorite beverage, these sessions are designed to be an enjoyable and stress-free way to express your creativity. It's a perfect weekend afternoon activity!
Easter Sunday Hours: We’re Closed—But Not Completely!
Sunday, April 20th | Closed except for afternoon class*
Please note that we will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 20th, so our team can spend the holiday with loved ones. However, for those attending our afternoon class, we’ll be open as usual to ensure that everyone can enjoy their learning experience uninterrupted.
*Please check with us directly for class-specific details.
See You Next Month! :)
We’re looking forward to another month of art, creativity, and community at Art City. Be sure to mark your calendars for these exciting events, and keep an eye on our social media for more updates throughout the month. We hope to see you there!
March Madness at CFAS and Art City
With so many great events and workshops this March, it's going to be a month full of creativity, fun, and inspiration! Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned artist, or just looking to have some fun with friends, CFADrawing has something to offer. Be sure to check out our upcoming events, and join us for a memorable artistic experience.
Discover Your Creative Side: Art Classes & Events at CFADrawing
At CFADrawing, we believe everyone has the potential to create something beautiful. Whether you're just starting your artistic journey or you're looking to refine your skills, we offer a wide variety of classes and events to cater to all levels of experience. From private lessons to fun, social Paint n Sip events, there's something for everyone.
Private Drawing & Painting Lessons (Tuesday to Friday)
For those looking for one-on-one instruction, we offer private drawing and painting lessons every weekday from 11 AM to 2 PM. These sessions are designed to cater to your individual artistic goals, whether you're working on a personal project or simply looking to improve your technique.
Pricing Update: The rate for private lessons is now $75 per hour. If you'd prefer a 2-hour session, it’s $150. Live models can be arranged for an additional fee should you wish to explore figure drawing or add another layer to your practice.
Academic Beginners Drawing & Painting Classes (Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
We also offer academic drawing and painting classes for beginners, held every Tuesday and Wednesday evening from 6 PM to 9 PM. These classes are perfect for those who are just starting out and want a structured approach to learning.
Pricing Update: The price for these classes is now $100 per session for a 3-hour class. All materials are included for the first month. We also offer a 5-week package for $400 (with one week free), which is a great way to commit to your artistic development and save!
Dive into the basics of drawing, shading, color theory, and more with expert instruction to help guide you on your creative journey.
Thursday Night Cyanotype Workshops (6-9 PM)
For something a bit more unique, join us for Thursday night Cyanotype workshops. Cyanotype is a historic photographic printing process that creates beautiful blue-and-white images. This workshop, held from 6-9 PM, is perfect for those looking to experiment with alternative photography techniques. All materials will be provided, and you’ll leave with your own cyanotype prints!
General outline of the workshop:
1) Brief overview of cyanotype.
2) Tape is used to fix paper onto board. Measuring and mixing of chemicals (nontoxic) in subdued light.
3) Application of emulsion.
4) Arrangement of materials to be exposed on paper.
5) Paper placed under UV lamps for 10 minutes.
6) Salts are washed away in sink and hung to dry for 15 - 20min.
7) Process is repeated using diaerent experimental eaects. Maybe 3 or 4 prints created during workshop.
Call for Art: "FIGURES: Art Depicting the Human Figure"
We invite artists to submit works that explore the human figure, celebrating its complexity, beauty, and diversity. This exhibition seeks to showcase a wide range of interpretations, from traditional representations to innovative, contemporary depictions. Whether through realistic portrayals or abstract expressions, we encourage artists to explore the body’s shape, movement, and symbolism in a way that reflects both the universal and the personal.
We welcome submissions in all media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and digital art. This exhibition is an opportunity to reflect on the profound role the human form plays in art history and its ongoing relevance in contemporary artistic practice.
Submission Requirements:
$26 per submission or $52 for three submissions
Artist Statement
Images MUST be filed in this format: Name_Title.jpeg (ex: JaneDoe_Title.jpeg)
Images must be at least 300 DPI
All submissions must be received by April 18th, 2025
We look forward to seeing how you engage with the human figure for this exciting exhibition!
We STILL Want Your Prints! Call for Printed Artwork
CFAS is looking for artists with prints that are made and ready to sell! CFAS participates in art festivals around the Chicago area year-round and can sell your artwork at our booth or table, to make it available to more customers. Some festivals we participate in include the Andersonville Galleria, West Loop Art Festival, West Fest, Wells Street Art Festival, Mayfest, and more. Artists who submit to our Call for Prints are also eligible to be part of our Featured Artists group, with an opportunity for inclusion in a group show or solo show.
Submission Requirements
$13 per Print Submission
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Submit your artwork and its’ information through our Call for Prints Submission Form, located under the Call for Artists tab on our website (chicagofineartsalon.com)
Call for Installation Artwork
CFAS and Art City are accepting proposals for our Monthly Installation Artist Residency space at Art City! We’ve been collaborating to exhibit emerging artists’ work for over a year since Art City’s opening in 2023. Open to any artist, media, or discipline to create site-specific installations in our space. We are looking for sculptural installations that activate our space with a large window display. Share your vision with the world! $26 application fee, additional $26 operational fees due upon acceptance. Each artist will have their work on view for a month, including an opening reception to meet other artists in our community. There will also be opportunities for other community engagement events such as an artist talk, radio show, and a closing reception. Artwork will be visible to passers-by on the street and will be featured on our websites and social media. Join us!
Submission Requirements:
$26 Submission Fee
All art must be able to fit into the exhibition space
All information must be included in the application form
All images must be at least 300 dpi
Join CFAC for Curated Calls for Art & Artist Opportunities
Chicago Fine Art Salon is proud to introduce our new Art Club! Our monthly subscription service will give you a quick glance at all of the art opportunities in the Chicago area and beyond! We know how busy an artist’s schedule can be, so we want to provide a service that allows upcoming artists to browse what’s available to help further their careers by reaching a broader audience. All Calls for Art are 18+, and under $50 for admission.
Join or learn more about our available tiers by visiting our website!
Paint & Sip Classes this Month:
Friday Night Art Party - Paint n Sip (7-9 PM)
Need a fun way to unwind at the end of the week? Our Friday Night Art Party is the perfect opportunity to socialize and explore your creative side. From 7-9 PM, join us for our BYOB Paint n Sip event, where you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, sip your favorite drink, and create a painting with step-by-step guidance from our instructors. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend!
Saturday Night Paint Your Date (6-8 PM)
Looking for a unique and fun date night? Our Paint Your Date event, happening on Saturday from 6-8 PM, is the ideal way to bond with your partner while creating art together. You’ll work on a painting that reflects your relationship, and the best part is you don’t need to be a seasoned artist to have a great time!
Weekend Paint n Sip Sessions (Saturday & Sunday, 2-4 PM)
If you're free during the weekend, we offer Paint n Sip sessions on both Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 PM. Whether you want to relax with friends, meet new people, or just have some fun while sipping on your favorite beverage, these sessions are designed to be an enjoyable and stress-free way to express your creativity. It's a perfect weekend afternoon activity!
Special Sunday Events: Paint Your Pet & More
We have a few special events lined up for Sundays in March, starting with our Paint Your Pet session on Sunday, March 9th from 2-4 PM. Bring in a photo of your furry friend, and our talented instructors will guide you as you create a custom masterpiece of your pet.
On March 16th, St. Patty’s Day, we’ll be hosting a special Paint n Sip event from 2-4 PM. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday in a relaxed, creative atmosphere.
And don’t miss our Cubs Opening Day Pre-party on March 30th from 2-4 PM, where we’ll be combining art with sports for a fun pre-game celebration!
Now Open: Seonyoung Lee’s “Woven Emotions”
Seonyoung LEE is a weaver, designer and installation artist based in Chicago, IL. She studied Industrial design at Hongik University in Korea with a BFA degree. After graduating, she worked as a display designer for a fashion company, taking on roles in various locations such as Shanghai, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Seoul. Recently, she received her master’s degree for studying fashion and fiber within the Fashion, Body and Garment at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She participates in various exhibitions throughout the state.
Seonyoung engages with ideas about overcoming and healing processes related to one’s vulnerability, specifically emotional difficulties. Currently, she is pursuing space-based installations and creating tapestries and soft sculptures through weaving.
Schedule a viewing appointment to see the work by emailing us at info@chicagofineartsalon.com
Currently On View at NEW Gallery: Jeannette Done-Lagemann’s “Urban Landscapes”
Jeanette’s Artist Statement:
Jeannette Doné-Lagemann arrived in New York from the Dominican Republic as a teenager. She went on to reside in France, Chile, and Argentina. In 2021, she made the exciting move to the Gold Coast of Chicago!
She is a contemporary visual artist and photographer whose creations are intertwined with her life-long passions for art, photography, languages and travel. Jeannette is a multi-cultural inventive artist who lends permanence to the ephemeral posters and papers that she pulls from street walls around the world. She transforms them into abstract, impressionistic, mixed media “Urban Landscapes.”
Jeannette’s academic artistic pursuits include The Art Students League of NY, Parsons Design School, Université de La Sorbonne, art history at The Louvre Museum Paris. For decades, she flexed her languages, artful eye, and business acumen in the magazine publishing world for namely for TIME and ELLE fashion Magazines.
Get Involved
Ready to unleash your inner artist? Register for our upcoming classes or events today. If you have any questions or would like more information, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can’t wait to see what you create!
Feel the Love with CFAS’s February Blog <3
As we dive into February, the Salon is buzzing with art exhibitions, receptions, and opportunities for creatives to showcase their talents. Whether you're an art lover or an aspiring artist, this month offers something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at the exciting events lined up!
Thursday, 2/6 – Vernissage J9 Wine Bar (5-8 pm)
Kick off your month with a delightful evening full of wine tasting and artwork at J9 Wine Bar! On Thursday, February 6th, CFAS’s founder, Joe Sikora, will have his art on display at J9 during his vernissage, or private opening, on February 6th. It's the perfect chance to mingle with fellow art enthusiasts while enjoying a glass of wine and exploring beautiful pieces.
Friday, 2/7 – Eros Art Show Opening (5-8 pm)
On Friday, February 7th, join us for the opening of the Eros Art Show, hosted and curated by CFAS. This exhibition will feature an array of artworks centered around love, passion, and human connection. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with fresh and thought-provoking works, all while connecting with other art lovers. The opening reception will run from 5-8 pm, so make sure to stop by!
The concept of Eros transcends mere physical attraction, embodying the beauty, complexity, and raw energy of romantic and sensual love. We encourage artists to interpret this theme through diverse mediums, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, and installations. Whether through the portrayal of intimate moments, the celebration of human connection, or an exploration of vulnerability and desire, we invite you to bring your unique vision to this powerful theme.
Sunday, 2/1 – CFAS Figures '25 Call for Art Opens
We invite artists to submit works that explore the human figure, celebrating its complexity, beauty, and diversity. This exhibition seeks to showcase a wide range of interpretations, from traditional representations to innovative, contemporary depictions. Whether through realistic portrayals or abstract expressions, we encourage artists to explore the body’s shape, movement, and symbolism in a way that reflects both the universal and the personal.
We welcome submissions in all media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and digital art. This exhibition is an opportunity to reflect on the profound role the human form plays in art history and its ongoing relevance in contemporary artistic practice.
Submission Requirements:
$26 per submission or $52 for three submissions
Artist Statement
Images MUST be filed in this format: Name_Title.jpeg (ex: JaneDoe_Title.jpeg)
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Everything must be submitted before April 18th, 2025
We look forward to seeing how you engage with the human figure for this exciting exhibition!
We STILL Want Your Prints! Call for Printed Artwork
CFAS is looking for artists with prints that are made and ready to sell! CFAS participates in art festivals around the Chicago area year-round and can sell your artwork at our booth or table, to make it available to more customers. Some festivals we participate in include the Andersonville Galleria, West Loop Art Festival, West Fest, Wells Street Art Festival, Mayfest, and more. Artists who submit to our Call for Prints are also eligible to be part of our Featured Artists group, with an opportunity for inclusion in a group show or solo show.
Submission Requirements
$7 per Image
$42 for 7 Images
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Submit your artwork and its’ information through our Call for Prints Submission Form, located under the Call for Artists tab on our website (chicagofineartsalon.com)
Join CFAC for Curated Calls for Art & Artist Opportunities
Chicago Fine Art Salon is proud to introduce our new Art Club! Our monthly subscription service will give you a quick glance at all of the art opportunities in the Chicago area and beyond! We know how busy an artist’s schedule can be, so we want to provide a service that allows upcoming artists to browse what’s available to help further their careers by reaching a broader audience. All Calls for Art are 18+, and under $50 for admission.
Join or learn more about our available tiers by visiting our website!
Friday, 2/28 – Art City Openings (5-9 pm)
To round out the month, join us on Friday, February 28th for the Art City openings. From 5-9 pm, explore three exciting exhibitions:
Jeannette Done-Lagemann in NEW Gallery
Seonyung Lee in miar
Print Show
This is your chance to see fresh works in diverse media, and enjoy an evening of art, conversation, and creativity. Whether you're into fine art prints or contemporary pieces, there's something for every art aficionado to discover.
About Seonyoung Lee:
Seonyoung LEE is a weaver, designer and installation artist based in Chicago, IL. She studied Industrial design at Hongik University in Korea with a BFA degree. After graduating, she worked as a display designer for a fashion company, taking on roles in various locations such as Shanghai, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Seoul. Recently, she received her master’s degree for studying fashion and fiber within the Fashion, Body and Garment at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She participates in various exhibitions throughout the state.
Seonyoung engages with ideas about overcoming and healing processes related to one’s vulnerability, specifically emotional difficulties. Currently, she is pursuing space-based installations and creating tapestries and soft sculptures through weaving.
About Jeannette Done-Lagemann:
Jeannette Doné-Lagemann arrived in New York from the Dominican Republic as a teenager. She went on to reside in France, Chile, and Argentina. In 2021, she made the exciting move to the Gold Coast of Chicago!
She is a contemporary visual artist and photographer whose creations are intertwined with her life-long passions for art, photography, languages and travel. Jeannette is a multi-cultural inventive artist who lends permanence to the ephemeral posters and papers that she pulls from street walls around the world. She transforms them into abstract, impressionistic, mixed media “Urban Landscapes.”
Jeannette’s academic artistic pursuits include The Art Students League of NY, Parsons Design School, Université de La Sorbonne, art history at The Louvre Museum Paris. For decades, she flexed her languages, artful eye, and business acumen in the magazine publishing world for namely for TIME and ELLE fashion Magazines.
March Sneak Peek
Looking ahead to March, don’t miss the Eros show closing reception on Friday, March 7th, from 5-8 pm. If you missed the opening in February, this is your last chance to experience this beautiful collection of works.
With so many exciting events on the calendar, February at the Salon promises to be a month filled with creativity, community, and culture. Whether you’re an artist, art lover, or just looking for something fun to do, you’ll find plenty to keep you inspired. See you there!
Happy New Year from CFAS!
Exciting Upcoming Events at the Gallery: January Highlights
As we settle into the new year, CFAS and Art City are brimming with creative energy, offering opportunities for artists and art lovers alike to get involved. From closing calls to exciting openings, January promises to be a month filled with vibrant art experiences. Here's what's happening:
Sunday, January 19th – Eros Call for Art Closes
Our latest Call for Art, “Eros,” closes this month on Sunday, January 19th at midnight. If you're an artist inspired by themes of love, passion, sensuality, or mythology, this is your chance to showcase your work in our upcoming show. Whether you're creating bold, intimate pieces or conceptual works that explore the complexities of desire, we encourage you to submit your art before the deadline. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this exciting exploration of human emotion!
We invite artists to explore and express the many dimensions of sensuality, intimacy, and desire in our upcoming exhibition, Eros. This call for art seeks works that delve into the deeper, more nuanced aspects of love — the physical, emotional, and passionate connections that shape our most intimate experiences.
The concept of Eros transcends mere physical attraction, embodying the beauty, complexity, and raw energy of romantic and sensual love. We encourage artists to interpret this theme through diverse mediums, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, and installations. Whether through the portrayal of intimate moments, the celebration of human connection, or an exploration of vulnerability and desire, we invite you to bring your unique vision to this powerful theme.
The submission deadline for this show is January 19, 2025, with an opening show at Chicago Fine Art Salon on February 7th.
Submission Requirements:
$26 per submission
$52 for three submissions
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Sunday, January 19th – Call for Prints Submissions Close
January 19th, Sunday, is the LAST day to submit to our print show to have your art displayed at our January 24th opening! This is an open invitation for all printmakers, from traditional techniques to experimental new forms, to submit their works for consideration. Whether you specialize in lithographs, etchings, screenprints, or digital prints, we want to see how you're pushing the boundaries of this versatile medium. The submission deadline will be announced soon, so be sure to mark your calendar and get your works ready to share with the gallery community.
CFAS is looking for artists with prints that are already made and ready to sell. CFAS participates in art festivals around the Chicago area year-round and can sell your artwork at our booth or table, to make it available to more customers. Some festivals we participate in include the Andersonville Galleria, West Loop Art Festival, West Fest, Wells Street Art Festival, Mayfest, and more. Artists who submit to our Call for Prints are also eligible to be part of our Featured Artists group, with an opportunity for inclusion in a group show or solo show.
Submission Requirements
$7 per Image
$42 for 7 Images
Images must be at least 300 DPI
Friday, January 24th – Art City Openings, 5-9 pm
Friday, January 24th evening will be one of our most anticipated events of the month as we celebrate two exciting exhibitions and a special print show:
Emma Stine
Emma Stine in miar.: Join us for the opening of Emma Stine’s latest work in our miar. space. Emma, born and raised in New Hampshire, received a dual degree in Fine Arts and Italian Studies from the University of New Hampshire. During her studies, she spent time in Florence at the Lorenzo de’Medici Institute, where she studied oil painting, and in Rome at the University of Sapienza, where she took a course on the legacy of totalitarianism in Italy—experiences that continue to influence her practice today. Since relocating to Chicago, Emma's work has focused on interpersonal relationships, memory, and the complexities of faithfully representing family. Her current body of work expands on her painting vocabulary, emphasizing the character of the paint itself and how it can engage with the illusionistic image. Emma is currently a second-year MFA candidate in the Painting & Drawing Department at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. We are excited to showcase her compelling exploration of these themes.
Charlie Goss in the NEW Gallery: Over in the NEW Gallery, we’ll be showcasing Charlie Goss's fresh and innovative take on contemporary themes. With a style that bridges realism and abstraction, Charlie’s work will undoubtedly offer something unique and thought-provoking for viewers.
Print Show: Don’t miss our special print show running during the evening from 5-9 pm. We’ll be featuring a curated selection of stunning prints, highlighting the diversity of the medium and the talent of our participating artists. From intricate etchings to vibrant digital designs, this show promises to be a feast for the eyes.
Have a GREAT 2025!
We can’t wait to welcome you to the gallery in January! Whether you’re an artist submitting your work or an art lover looking to enjoy the latest exhibitions, there’s something for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates, and be sure to save the dates for these exciting events!
December Festivities with the Salon
The festive season is upon us, and what better way to embrace the spirit of creativity than by diving into the vibrant world of art? CFAS and Art City are thrilled to announce festively themed Paint & Sip and ornament painting classes throughout December, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey. Mark your calendars and join us for a month filled with inspiration, learning, and fun!
The festive season is upon us, and what better way to embrace the spirit of creativity than by diving into the vibrant world of art? CFAS and Art City are thrilled to announce festively themed Paint & Sip and ornament painting classes throughout December, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey. Mark your calendars and join us for a month filled with inspiration, learning, and fun!
Gallery Openings
Join us for the opening of our Print Show! Coinciding with the opening of Art City’s two galleries, we will be showing artist’s prints. We have a wide variety of work and are so excited to share it with everyone
Spenser Bower’s “Beaches and Nightclubs” will be opening Friday, December 13th from 5 to 9 PM at Art City, 1400 N Halsted Ave. Chicago, IL
Artist Statement:
I’ve always wished for the power to freeze time. My art captures the golden ephemeral moments of vibrant youth in tableau. I draw inspiration from Chicago’s frenetic energy, especially its iconic gay scene. My work is meant to elicit the melancholic joy of a remembered summer afternoon. Though each of these vignettes, in reality, may have only lasted an instant, they will now live on long after I am no longer here to remember them.
Elise Blair Bagnoli’s “Lovecraftian Sentimentality” will also be opening alongside Spenser Bower’s collection Friday, December 13th from 5 to 9 PM at Art City, 1400 N Halsted Ave. Chicago, IL
Artist Statement:
Elise Blair Bagnoli (b.1998) is an American Italian artist who uses her work as a way to navigate her subconscious. Using atmospheric qualities, she allows mythos and reality to seep into one. Through architecture and abstract portraiture, she references the self and activates these tools to digest the observable world. Elise has spent time researching concepts revolving around philosophy, mythology, and therapy-based meditation to help progress her work and better understand herself—her artistic and life practices mirror each other, as the process of making art isn’t one of pleasure but of necessity. They make art to survive and understand.
Come support these artists and see their incredible work in our gallery spaces NEW Gallery and miar. We hope to see you there!
Hands-On Learning with Joe: Figure Drawing and Color Theory
On the following weekends, deepen your artistic skills with our workshops led by the talented Joe.
Figure Drawing
Dates: Saturday, December 14 & Saturday, December 21
Time: 11 AM - 1 PM
Location: Art City
Explore the fundamentals of figure drawing in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, Joe will guide you and provide valuable insights. Bring your sketchpad and get ready to bring the human form to life!
Color Theory
Dates: Sunday, December 15 & Sunday, December 22
Time: 11 AM - 1 PM
Location: Art City
Understand the magic of color! In this workshop, Joe will demystify color theory and teach you how to use color effectively in your art. Unleash your creativity as you learn to mix, match, and harmonize colors.
Vision Boarding: Start the New Year with Intentions ✨
Sunday, December 29 & Monday, December 30
Time: 2 PM - 4 PM, 5 PM - 7 PM
Location: Art City
As we transition into the new year, join us for our Vision Boarding sessions! Create a visual manifestation of your dreams and goals for 2025. Gather your magazines, scissors, and any other art supplies you wish to use to curate your personal vision board. Supplies will also be provided with the purchase of a class.
New Call for Art: “Eros: The Sensual Side of Love” ❤️
CFAS is excited to announce an open call for artists for our upcoming exhibition Eros: The Sensual Side of Love. We invite artists to explore and express the many dimensions of sensuality, intimacy, and desire. This call for art seeks works that delve into the deeper, more nuanced aspects of love—the physical, emotional, and passionate connections that shape our most intimate experiences.
Submission Details:
Deadline: January 19, 2025
Opening Show: February 7, 2025 at Chicago Fine Art Salon
We encourage artists from all backgrounds and mediums to submit their work for this thought-provoking exhibition. Let your creativity shine through the exploration of love’s more sensual side!
Don’t miss out on these exciting art events! Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, find inspiration, or simply enjoy the creativity of your community, CFAS and Art City have something for everyone this December. Bring a friend, make new connections, and immerse yourself in the world of art.