Hyde Park Art Center is a contemporary art center and gallery at 5020 S Cornell Ave on Chicago’s South Side. Its exhibitions bring emerging artists and community-rooted work into view, with changing displays that reward a look around the galleries. The center also runs studio classes for children and adults, artist talks, residencies and community events, so a visit can include making art as well as seeing it. Check the current exhibition and event schedule before you go, especially if you want to join a class or open studio.
A community art center since 1939
Hyde Park Art Center began in 1939 as the Fifth Ward Art Center, founded by artist volunteers as a neighborhood space for visual arts. It has moved between locations over the years and is now at 5020 S Cornell Ave in Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood. The organization has supported artists and connected local residents with visual art throughout its history.
Today, the center combines gallery exhibitions with teaching and community programming. It is a nonprofit contemporary arts organization and one of Chicago’s oldest alternative exhibition spaces. Its work focuses on making contemporary art accessible and sustaining visual arts in the city.
Exhibitions and emerging artists
The galleries present changing exhibitions of contemporary art, including work by emerging artists. Ground Floor is an ongoing biennial exhibition that brings together new talent from Chicago. The center also supports artists through residencies, talks and opportunities to make and share work.
The exhibitions draw on a range of media and ideas, including installations and multimedia work. Displays can connect with community life and issues affecting Chicago’s South Side. Since exhibitions change, check the current program before visiting if you have a particular show in mind.
Classes, events and family programs
Studio art classes are available to people of different ages and skill levels, including children and teens. The program gives visitors a chance to work with art themselves as well as see it in the galleries. Classes and open studios can be in demand, so arriving early is useful when you have registered for a session.
Public programming includes artist talks and community events, along with activities for young artists and families. Some events bring art together with other forms of culture, including poetry and music. Check the schedule for dates and registration details, since availability depends on the specific class or event.
FAQ
Is Hyde Park Art Center free to visit?
The center provides free public access to its exhibitions. Check the current program for any event or class details.
What can you see at Hyde Park Art Center?
The galleries present changing contemporary art exhibitions, including Ground Floor, a biennial exhibition focused on emerging Chicago talent.
Does Hyde Park Art Center offer classes?
Yes. It runs studio art classes for children and adults, as well as youth programs and open studios.
Is parking available at Hyde Park Art Center?
Yes. Free parking is available in the lot and on the street.
