“What kind of a community do you want to live in?” That question, which can be found on the Stockyard Institute’s home page, is at the core of the organization’s identity. Founded by Jim Duignan in 1995, the Stockyard Institute is part civics project, part art practice, and wholly an experiment in liberatory social practice […]
Author Archives: Kerry Cardoza
Posted inFood & Drink
Growing together at the El Paseo Community Garden
In the permaculture site at El Paseo Community Garden, seven layers of plants grow in a harmonious, planned ecosystem. Wild strawberries flourish at the foot of fruit trees, out of direct sunlight. Comfrey grows near herbs and berries, bringing nitrogen and phosphorus to the soil, acting as a sort of natural fertilizer to neighboring plants. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Faheem Majeed’s art holds up a mirror to institutions, and himself
The artist’s new solo exhibition explores the impact and imperfections of the South Side Community Art Center.
Posted inArts & Culture
What are human rights to the incarcerated?
Two books explore the creativity of people in prison while highlighting their lack of access to basic necessities.
Posted inArts & Culture
‘The Long Dream’ and a labor nightmare
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago’s latest exhibit preaches equity, but behind the scenes artists and former museum employees are demanding real change.
Posted inNews & Politics
Inside the fight for racial equity at SAIC
Current and former students, staff, and faculty at the top-ranked art school describe microaggressions, discrimination, and a failed anti-racism campaign.
Posted inNews & Politics
The toll of coronavirus
Loved ones reflect on the loss of partners, parents, siblings, joy givers, caretakers, and secret keepers.
Posted inArts & Culture
Elaine Kahn’s words cut like a knife
The Evanston native’s new book of poetry explores love, loss, and pain.
Posted inArts & Culture
Vihanga has arrived
The handmade clothing line offers ethical and sustainable fashion for all.
Posted inArts & Culture
‘The Last Judgment’ brings catharsis to Little Village
Artist Adela Goldbard draws from Mexican traditions to address issues in the neighborhood today.
Posted inArts & Culture
Alberto Aguilar draws no distinction between art and life
Anything can become art by naming it so.
Posted inMusic
Learning to love Chicago with your ears
The Midwest Society for Acoustic Ecology believes engagement with the sonic environment can help build more sustainable communities—and it’s demonstrating with a soundwalk in the Chicago Pedway.
Posted inMusic
Punk’s not dead—and it’s not white either
The Black, Brown, and Indigenous Crew Punk Fest connects underground music with radical politics to make a community with room for everyone.
Posted inNews & Politics
Once a street gang, then a political collective, the Young Lords celebrate 50 years with a symposium at DePaul
“We’re not from Humboldt Park or Lincoln Park, we’re Puerto Ricans.”