This is a hidden gem in Hyde Park and I'm so glad that I did and I think you would as well. They are open 7 days a week and it is free, but they need a small donation or big lol to help keep the doors open. They have a big event starting Saturday September 24th 2022 from 1pm to 4pm. Don't worry if you can't make it this weekend because they have this event every 3 months with different art. Many of the Artist are teen and their work is totally awesome and powerful. They also have another fund raising event coming up now hold your britches the tickets are $750 but remember it's a fund raising event. Now if that is too much for you because I know it is for me. The good news Is they have some $75 doll ar tickets for the after party. Any whoooo I can't wait to go back because they have something for everyone. As always folks.. Be Safe and Enjoy!!! I have no rights to any of the Art work...just sharing the joy! read more

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I live less than a mile from here but so rarely visit. We went to a Friday night opening and closing exhibition. Every room had something going on, from crafts, poetry reading, a movie screening, snacks. I love the video projector room, a mixture of hand-made art and larger than life video projections. I envy places that can do free wine, but since the younger-than-21 demographic visits and contributes the art sometimes, it appears alcohol is purchase only. Really great art, coolly presented, check it out! read more

Hyde Park Art Center - Bridge in the video room! - Art Galleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This describes part of the early history of Hyde Park Art Center, and contributions by Don Baum. My review is based on the fact that, in the year 1970, I saw an exhibition at U.C. Berkeley that included paintings by four of the Chicago Imagists. The exhibition catalogue was called, "Human Concern/Personal Torment." When I was a freshman student at U.C. Berkeley, I attended this exhibition and saw paintings by Chicago Imagists Karl Wirsum (Baseball Girl), Jim Nutt (Miss E. Knows), Gladys Nilsson (Catwomen War), and Ed Paschke (Dos Criados). These paintings are in the catalogue, and attached here are my photographs of two paintings from the catalogue (Jim Nutt; Gladys Nillson). The Acknowledgments section of the catalogue states that, "For the encouragement, advice, and assistance, I am pleased to thank . . . Donald Baum . . . many colleagues will have contributed assistance by the time the exhibition and catalogue are completed." In the years, 1980 to 1984, I lived in Madison, WI and, during that era, visited Chicago to view exhibits at Phyllis Kind Gallery, where I saw paintings by Ed Paschke, Chicago Institute of Art, and Museum of Contemporary Art. My review is also based on the documentary directed by Leslie Buchbinder, called, "A Walk on Da Hairy Side !" The movie is available from Pentimenti Productions. My attached photos include screenshots from this movie, showing the outside of Hyde Park Art Center (at 4 minutes), a screenshot showing young Don Baum (at 14 minutes), and a photo of older Don Baum (at 16 minutes). Here are some quotations from the movie. "There weren't that many places back in the mid-1960's where there walls available, and the gallery scene was minimal, not too many commercial galleries," spoken by Gladys Nilsson. At 13 minutes, Jim Nutt says, "For young artists, there really wasn't a scene. And then, the Hyde Park Art Center was basically the only real opening." "We started exhibiting around '64 at the Hyde Park Art Center," says Gladys Nilsson at 14 min. At 14 min, we see a black and white still photo of Don Baum, and the narrator says, "The Hyde Park Art Center gained momentum in the 1950's through the vision of a maverick curator, Don Baum." In an interview, Mr. Baum says, "My idea for the Hyde Park Art Center was that it would be a place where artists who had no previous exhibiting experience could show! I always felt my role was to permit!" At 15 min, Don Baum says, "There was an animal, vegetable, and mineral . . . three separately." Then, Jim Nutt says, "All the paintings had to be about animal, vegetable, or mineral." Then, Art Green says, "I remember I was in the vegetable series, for sure, and I think in the mineral series as well." At 16 minutes, a video shows Don Baum at an opening at Hyde Park Art Center, and wearing a Turkish fez. Critic Dennis Adrian says, "Don Baum was a fireworks display, going off all the time." Then, the narrator says, "Located 7 miles south of downtown Hyde Park was home to the University of Chicago, a magnet for the city's intellectual elite, and a hotbed of cultural non-conformity." Then, Don Baum says, "There was a period in which this kind of flamboyance was right on the nose." At 23 minutes, the narrator says, "From the very beginning The Hairy Who paid homage to their beloved form of the comic book, by publishing their own comics, for each of their Hyde Park Art Center shows, in 1966, 1967, and 1968." At 36 minutes, artist Kerig Pope says, "Don Baum managed to convince them [The Hairy Who] that they weren't competing with each other, they were competing against the world." read more

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This is such a beautiful art center and they offer classes, programs for all ages and really engage the community in an amazing creative space. The exhibitions here have never disappointed. read more

The new building for the recently relocated Hyde Park Art Center was designed by local architect Douglas Garofalo. Its east wall along Cornell features the largest exterior digital facade, so experimental artists like Inigo Manglano-Ovalle can get a crack at doing their artistic thing with the building, which used to be a printing plant. HPAC recently hosted a 36-hour "Creative Move", a free grand opening festival which introduced visitors to works by local artists along with a variety of dances, presentations, and lectures. read more

Hyde Park Art Center - Hyde Park Art Center - Art Galleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I was pretty psyched to attend "Cocktails and Clay" with a couple lady friends but was disappointed by a few things. We did arrive shortly after it started and left by 10, so maybe it gets going later? Anyway, the concept is awesome but needs some fine-tuning. For one thing, the clay project we did was a little confusing and they split up the room into teams so no one spoke to anyone besides the people they came with. Our team made our own fun, but it could have been more mingle-friendly. Also, I wasn't drinking and my only option for a bevo was a room-temperature RC. I hope this event works out the kinks because it does seem like a great idea. It may have some identity issues though - maybe they should decide whether to be an after-work activity or a late-night spot. read more

day 61 in chicago where else can you go to look at art, play with clay, and drink alcohol? http://static.px.yelp.com/bphoto/juFeR75GyaU9BZkjxo5-hQ/l I made this. don't ask me what it is. it was supposed to be the two towers... read more

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I really like the idea of this place and their mission, and the staff I've encountered all seem very nice. This review is for the last class that I took there, which left me underwhelmed. Though the teacher was friendly, there was pretty much no structure and no instruction. I felt like he did little (if any) preparation for the class, and spent most his time during class plugging his own artwork and exhibitions. If I wanted any critique from him about my work I had to walk over to him and ask him for his opinion on improvements. You would think there would be more attention to the student given the small class size. Not surprisingly, attendance rate was spotty. In short, I was paying for the price of a class, but getting use of a studio with background noise from a gay hipster. I really hope this was just an isolated incident, but experience reflected poorly on the art center in my mind as I felt they should have screened their staff more carefully. read more

A few weeks ago, at the first peek of nice weather, a pal convinced me it would be an excellent idea to ride from my house all the way to HPAC. Replace excellent with completely retarded and she was right. Completely winded and sweating like a pig, I was relieved to spend an hour or so wandering through the cool, quiet spaces looking at the art. Some of it we loved, some, not so much. My favorite was the work tucked in the stairwell like a little secret. I've always loved little hidden treasures. Sweet Secrets and Keypers, anyone? Ok, maybe I'm alone with my weird 80's toys. I look forward to coming back, but maybe on a less windy day or after I've been back on the bike for a while. The ride home was way worse. By the time I got in my door my ass hurt too bad to sit down. The things former art students do to feel like they're making use of their degrees.... read more

I specifically chose to stay in the Hyde Park district while in Chicago because of this Arts Center. I stumbled across it by chance a few years ago by staying at the nearby Ramada because I worked at a Milwaukee Ramada and got a great deal. It turned out to be one of the smartest decisions I have ever made. It is free, which is an amazing thing for Chicago. There is a decent amount of exhibits and gallery spaces and the art that was being shown is amazing. It also serves as a co-op, which is a great feature. There is a plant recycle and seed share program on the upper level as well. I know that they do classes as well, which is great for the local community. read more

This place is definitely unexpected- it's in a residential neighborhood, a bit off the beaten path. I've not been to any of the organized events yet- I wandered in a while ago while taking a little walk through the neighborhood on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. They had a couple of really interesting exhibits up and the place was pretty empty, but it still felt really lively because of the openness and light in the building. Admission is free, but they do have donation boxes (and come on, $5 is a small price to pay to support local art!) They have a number of really interesting classes for reasonable prices and I know they do a "Cocktails and Clay" event which I'd like to check out sooner than later. Overall, it's definitely worth ducking into if you're in the neighborhood- support this worthy cause! (Also of note: Istria Cafe has a location here, and that gelato is killer. Perfect way to cap off the afternoon). read more

Alcohol and sculpting? Obviously the two go hand-in-hand! I can't believe I'd never thought of this brilliant combination before. Hyde Park Art Center hosts "Cocktails and Clay" every 2nd Friday of the month -- what a fantastic idea! We went for Girls' Night recently, and had a grand time. Drinks are cheap and strong, everyone is friendly, and the clay classes are really fun -- even if you don't think you're artistic at all. (One thing to keep in mind is that you don't actually get to fire & keep your piece, although they are thinking of instituting this in the future.) For $15 cover and $4 drinks, it makes for an awesome Friday night. And the atmosphere is perfect for meeting people and making new friends. I'll definitely be back for Cocktails & Clay, or to take one of their many superb sounding classes! Edited 2/5/08: I am now taking a ceramics class here with my boyfriend and I LOVE IT. Love the teacher, love everything about it. The 5-star review remains! read more

I didn't know this place existed until my fiancé mentioned it and it was part of a volunteer thank you for one of her groups. But I was very excited when I learned it was in Hyde Park. It didn't take too long to get there from the Northside and parking was a breeze. We walked in and they had a special area for us before the actual festivities began. Then we went to the back room to do the clay business. That was more than too much fun! We were paired within our own group, but then we got to hang out with others. We were handed an assignment, a glob of clay each, and we went to work. Everyone was really friendly, the staff was really attentive and not overbearing. Overall, it was a GREAT experience. After the clay fun, we explored the very eclectic two floors of exhibition space, which included installations from children and local artists. Definitely want to go again. read more

Just caught an opening here the other day and I have to say I'm very impressed. Big galleries, media-installation ready, and tons of classrooms for teaching and studios for artists. It is truly a community gathering spot and should be the envy of neighborhoods all over Chicago. Next time you go, if you have a few extra dollars, make a donation. Art and Community are two causes everyone should support, no matter where they live. read more

Since 1939 HPAC has been supporting artist, curating memorable exhibitions and bringing the love of art to the community. Numerous contemporary art exhibitions including those of the "Hairy Who?" and Chicago Imagists (artists of the late 1960s and early 1970s who chose to stay in Chicago to create art.) In April of 2006, this esteemed arts organization moved into a newly transformed 2-story brick warehouse. The facility incorporates the mission to "stimulate and sustain visual art in Chicago" into the new building. Every surface can be used for gallery space; there are community classrooms and other rooms for artists to gather. The most notable feature of the building is a video wall outside that artists use as a sort of high-tech canvas that can be seen by folks passing by. A sight I often take in when going through Hyde Park. The art shown there tends to be very cerebral, probably due to the University of Chicago academics and students who live in the neighborhood. Regardless, the shows always make me see the world in a different way, which is the point of art. read more

This is a nice place to visit if you love art and even if like seen unique and original things.This agreat family place to go to. If you are a artist or not. read more

I can remember field trips to Hyde Park Art Center while attending grade school at Shoesmith way back when. At that time HPAC was located in the Del Prado building at 53rd & Hyde Park Blvd. The new space is cool, open and lively. I have enjoyed a a couple of great exhibitions as well as the art meets mixer, "Cocktails & Clay". HPAC also boasts a roster of courses to satisfy the artist in both the novice and skilled. read more

I've been interning here for business/accounting. Lov the staff, artists, art work, and students here. http://www.hydeparkart.org Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer classes in digital video, clay, ceramics, drawing, painting, photography. (5 & 10 week courses) Check their monthly Wine & Cocktails and other events! read more

Been taking classes here for over a year and a half. Love this place. If you want to take a beginning class in ceramics, I suggest Hardy. Hardy is very focused on technique and precision. He will teach you how to throw and do it well. He does not do demonstrations, but works with beginners and offers advice to more advanced students (as they desire it). David Trost is a GREAT person to take a class with, once you start wanting inspiration. This guy is totally genius and inspiring as hell. You will get more excited about pottery then you have ever been about anything else. Another amazing teacher is Mary. Mary is a fantastic potter and sometimes teaches tile making. TAKE HER! She's great as a teacher and person! read more

This place is magic. The art galleries are free and changed frequently. I haven't tried too much in the cafe, but the vanilla late and various chocolate/cheese cake/scone offerings are good. The really fabulous thing is the ceramics class I'm taking. It *is* a little pricey, but on par with other studios in the city. The instructor Harvy is great, patient, knowledgable. A little cohort of regulars are there on any given afternoon and usually will happily help newbies. And you have open access to the studio whenever the art center is open, which isn't universal. read more

This is a gallery, playspace, learning studio, and nightlife venue all rolled into one. Their range of classes for both kids and adults is mindblowing (and taught by excellent instructors), the displays in the gallery are always innovative, and now and then they mix it up with evening cocktail meet and mingle events. And if you're done with food for thought, just breeze into Istria next door for some great tummy satisfaction. The changing video displays on the exterior facade offer for a nice view as you drive by too. An essential and vibrant part of the neighborhood. read more

It's hard NOT to support this place. The beautiful new building (still on its way to being finished) functions as a FREE gallery that holds exciting exhibitions from both local and international artists and also houses low-cost art classes open to the community. You can take anything from pottery to photography to silkscreen to crochet and beyond. And along with your (quite meager) tuition payment you get access to the facilities there (darkroom, kiln, etc) to do your homework or log in some extra hours perfecting your craft. If you live up north, it's definitely worth catching the #6 and heading down south for this place. read more

And the Beast is being dismantled this weekend. The finale was terrific--especially the music and musicians. Thank you HPAC and I look forward to the next installation, wherever it may be. I've gotten over the demise of the Red Flag Salon, so I guess I can handle the demise of the Beast. As long as John Preus keeps making stuff, which I think is inevitable, in a good way. read more

The Hyde Park Art Center has the BEST CERAMIC'S DEPARTMENT in ALL of Chicago. Great teaching staff, professional working artist in CERAMICS and PAINTING and DRAWING. The MOST AFFORDABLE classes, than any other art center or continuing studies program!!!!! read more

This place is a wonderful community center and should definitely be on your list of things to do if you are in the neighborhood. Some of the exhibits aren't always the most interesting, but since it's free, you really can't complain. read more

HPAC is amazing, interesting, and innovative space. As an art teacher in the city, I am thrilled to have access to a space that is always inviting and well designed. I find it completely comparable to other contemporary museums and art spots in the city, and if you haven't been already, you should go visit it! read more

Ok, so my husband and I went on a date here "Cocktails & Clay" which is every 2nd Friday from 8pm til 12am. We parked in their lot as street parking is difficult in Hyde Park. There is a suggested donation but I suggest paying whatever you can afford, the receptionist is totally ok with it! We participated in a "Sip & Sculpt 45-minute sessions with others and it was led by a teacher. Unfortunately we had to recycle our materials. In the main lobby there was a DJ spinning records and an area to dance if you felt so inclined. We also had a chance to explore the exhibitions and galleries. I was really impressed with the cash bar which at first glance looked like just a table with a few beers bottles but actually offered other drinks as well. We had a great time on a budget, in our neighborhood and for that I give it 5 plus stars! read more

Every time I've been here, I've been glad because I learned a lot and had fun. Definitely give it your time, and you will get out of it what you put into it. Thumbs up for being community and visitor-oriented. read more

discovered the place because my friend had her photography show there, was surprised find such a gem in chicago checked out their exhibits and studio space here, the work is interesting and inspiring i'll definitely check out the cocktails and clay some time! read more

There are some very nice pieces in the "Ground Floor" show of work by recent Chicago MFAs. Not necessarily a destination show, but definitely glad I stopped by given how close by I live. Looking forward to checking out "Cocktails & Clay" some time. read more

The exhibits, coffee shop and front staff at the Hyde Park Art Center are always great. When it comes to classes some of the instructors are outstanding while others leave something to be desired. For the serious maker Chicago has better options. read more

Great place to see an exhibit or to take an art class. Very talented teachers, and people in the classes are friendly, artistically inclined, and very genuine about it (so un-pretentious). I like working with and around these people. I hope this place continues to be wonderful for years. read more

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The Hyde Park Arts Center, which moved to its fabulous space 3 years ago, is probably my favorite thing about Hyde Park. Their programs are exciting and diverse. Their collections feature installations, mixed media, Outsider art, political art, local artists, giant sculptures, prints. When they moved into 5020 South Cornell, they had a 36-hour festival that had everything from puppets to yoga to print-making workshops. Since that first "Creative Move," they have celebrated annual FREE 24-hour birthday parties. At last year's, I watched trapeize artists and fire jugglers, silk-screened a t-shirt, ate cake, drank wine, and saw tons of art. I was so sad that I couldn't make it to this year's celebration. While there are lots of hands-on opportunities for children and families, HPAC doesn't leave adults out in the cold. The monthly cocktails and clay is so much fun! DJ, drinks, sculpting...they also host lecture series and have great openings that rival anything you would find on the Pilsen or River North Fridays. HPAC just keeps getting better and better, and it's the gem of this community. read more

the best thing i heard was that hardy finaly will be replaced. i have attended the art center for 30 years and not once did he spend 60 seconds teaching me . read more

While visiting a friend this weekend we decided to go to the Hyde Park Art Center and we were thrilled to find a Chicago artist, Mary Lou Zelazny exhibited such fabulous photographs. Certainly worth the trip. I live on the North side so don't get to Hyde Park much, but would return. read more

Hmmm, I recently returned to the HP neighborhood and was considering taking ceramic classes again. I wanted to check to see if things had changed. I read a recent posting that has since been filtered and removed. I found that posting, as well as a few other filtered postings, to be very honest and insightful. They shared similar experiences pertaining to kiln firings and poor studio leadership that I also experienced years ago. It's very sad to read that the dynamic of the ceramic studio has not changed and I also found it very sad that the center feels needs to hide these insightful and honest reviews. read more

I have been taking ceramic classes at the Hyde Park Art Center on and off for almost 12 years. It is relatively close to my house and it is a nice walk in good weather. At first glance, the cost of a 10 week class appears to be reasonable. The majority of the instructors that have cycled through the studio (David, Mary, Delores, Sergio, and Erin) have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable! they have shared their skills and knowledge in a constructive and positive manner. Unfortunately, the inner functioning of the ceramic studio is something else to be desired. They have only one individual, Hardy, who does all the firings. (He also teaches but I can not recommend taking a class with him. He is too busy with studio stuff when he should be teaching, is not helpful and at times can be very unpleasant.) He fires pieces at his own discretion. Pieces made in his classes take priority and get fired first. Pieces made in other classes are fired on if he likes you-your work can get fired in timely manner vs. if he does not like you-it can take many months to get pieces fired. I took a class over the summer and just recently picked up my pieces after sitting on glaze shelves in limbo for 5 months! He also mishandles pieces and lacks care when loading and unloading the kilns.I have filled out many evaluations expressing my experiences and concerns. They continue to not be addressed by their administration because the inner workings of this studio continues to be dysfunctional. With much deliberation, I have decided my money will be best spent elsewhere! read more