There are several ways artists and arts organizations can engage with the Chicago Park District, including;
- Arts Partnerships
- Employment
- Arts and Culture Space Rentals
- Night Out in the Parks
The most successful partnerships start at the local park level. We encourage you to go out and meet your parks.
Arts Partnerships
WHAT:
The Athletic Use, Resident, Contractor, and Service Provider (ARCS) program enables artists, artist organizations, community groups, organizations, and businesses to enter into a mutual agreement to provide mission-centered programs and services to the public on Park District property.
Participation in the ARCS Program is open to organizations that meet the criteria listed in the ARCS Guidelines who are interested in utilizing Park District facilities on a regular basis.
HOW:
Contact your local park to propose your idea and discuss an ARCS proposal. Applications and required documentation must be submitted for review at least 60-90 days ahead of planned programming. To learn more and explore program guidelines visit: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/doing-business/arcs-program
Employment
WHO:
Individual artists and arts educators of all disciplines
WHAT:
The Chicago Park District seeks talented and committed individuals to apply for positions in parks across the city. Artists will find opportunities to bring arts to the parks as activities instructors, recreational leaders, cultural staff, seasonal art positions, and administrators.
HOW:
Positions are posted throughout the year at http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/jobs/
Arts and Culture Space Rentals
WHAT:
The Chicago Park District offers the arts community park spaces for arts and culture rentals. Spaces include rehearsal rooms, dance studios, visual arts galleries, theaters, and outdoor stages. Rentals are at the discretion of parks and negotiated at the local park level.
HOW:
To book a facility inside a fieldhouse such as an auditorium or meeting room, call the fieldhouse directly for rental pricing and information. Click here to search for a park.
Some locations within the Park District such as 63rd St Beach, Northerly Island, Promontory Point, South Shore Cultural Center, etc. are considered Special Event Venues. Click here for more information on permits and Special Event Venues.
Night Out in the Parks
WHO:
Chicago artists, arts organizations, filmmakers, educators, and citizens
WHAT:
Each year the Chicago Park District seeks proposals from Chicago based organizations and individual artists to participate in Night Out in the Parks, programming over 1,000 cultural events citywide.
HOW:
Proposals are accepted annually in the fall for the following summer's events. View a listing of current Night Out in the Parks events now, and learn about our Night Out app: My Chi Parks.