OPEN Center for the Arts

Founded in 2014, OPEN Center for the Arts (OPEN) provides a space for artists to develop and showcase their talents and entrepreneurship opportunities in the arts that are connected to community growth and economic development. Since its inception, OPEN has showcased over 500 visual artists of various disciplines, presented 75 music and theater performances, instructed over 168 art workshops, lead five youth cohorts, completed three public art projects, commissioned ten local artworks, and participated in 76 community events. With this award, OPEN conducts a feasibility analysis on a Mexico-inspired public plaza concept in the Marshall Square area of Chicago. It also establishes an advisory committee and engages residents and other stakeholders through a marketing campaign designed to increase awareness and support for the Marshall Square Plaza. This project encourages community engagement, promotes well-being through increased access to nature, and sparks interest in revitalizing the area while ensuring that it reflects the interests and needs of the community.