West Town Gallery Project
Mission:
The West Town Gallery Project’s mission is to provide existing and prospective WTCC Members with short term access to gallery space in order to expand their programming through an exhibition opportunity not otherwise tenable in their existing location.
Space & Location:
The West Town Gallery Project is within the WTCC offices, located at 1819 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago IL 60622.
Applications are currently closed.
Rules & Guidelines Overview
1. Who Can Apply?
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Current or Prospective WTCC Members. Not a Member? Learn More.
2. Timeline
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Three-month periods:
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1. January 15 - April 12
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First Fridays: February 2, March 1, April 5
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2. April 15 - July 12
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First Fridays: May 3, June 7
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3. July 15 - October 11
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First Fridays: August 2, September 6, October 4
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4. October 14 - January 10.
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First Fridays: November 1, December 6
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3. Requirements of Organization
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$250 damage deposit
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Signed agreement including expectations for install and deinstall timeline.
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Galleries are required to be open two of the three First Fridays of their tenancy, from 6-8PM, and must provide at least two docents throughout the event.
4. What WTCC Provides
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A $500 stipend for supplies and reception refreshments
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A paint and wall repair kit
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One social post to announce tenancy + inclusion in the West Town First Fridays IG Guide, Map and social promo
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Feature on Website
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In addition to participating in two WTFF, exhibiting Members have the option to plan up to two additional special events in the space, dependent on Chamber staff availability. Events must be free and open to the public, and gallery must provide at least one docents i.e. organizational representatives to be present throughout the event.
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Viewing hours are during regular Chamber hours (Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm) or by appointment. Due to the service-based nature of the WTCC's work throughout the community area, we recommend advising your potential patrons to call ahead to confirm a staff member is on-site and available to accommodate your visit.
The Space
The West Town Gallery Project provides exhibition space within the West Town Chamber of Commerce office.
West Town Gallery Project Space and Amenities Offered:
1. Space Available:
a. Front Room: two 15' walls, one 8' wall
b. Conference Room: 17'3" x 22'10"
c. Office Room: 12'2" x 17'9"
2. Access to restroom and kitchen with fridge and sink.
3. One shelf for storage in the back room.
4. Amenities: overhead lighting, electricity, heat, AC, water, security alarm
Previous Exhibitors
2022:
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"Forgotten Fantasies: Works by Vera Berdich" presented by Mongerson Gallery
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"Transition of the Esoteric Child: Works by Alex Puryear" presented by the Chicago Fine Art Salon
2023:
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"Caritas: Faces of Esperanza" presented by Esperanza Community Services
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"We've Been Doing It: A Women's Empowerment Show" co-presented by WTCC & ARC Gallery
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"Sunflowers of Peace" presented by Bennett Day School
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Shadow Dancer Vol. I: Lonnie Edwards + Tobi Shinobi