Where are all the Artist Spaces in Chicago?

One of the most common complaints that come out of mine, and so many other artists’ mouths is “There are no accessible artists spaces in Chicago!” After the pandemic it’s seemed impossible to connect with other creatives in the area. But there are still countless creative spaces tucked away throughout every Chicago neighborhood, and I’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. Here is my list of 10 non-residency, non-gallery spaces in Chicago that support artists through workshops, resources, community engagement, and creative opportunities:

Chicago Makerspace

A collaborative workspace in Ravenswood offering tools, equipment, and classes for artists, makers, and creators in various disciplines. It’s one of the oldest makerspaces in Chicago, founded in 2009 by a group of DIY enthusiasts.

Cost: Membership starts at $75/month for basic access.

What they offer: Tools and equipment for woodworking, metalworking, electronics, 3D printing, and more.

Lilstreet Art Center

A creative hub in Ravenswood offering studio spaces, classes, and workshops for ceramics, textiles, photography, and more. Lillstreet started in a former horse stable and has grown into one of Chicago’s largest art education centers.

Cost: Classes range from $200–$500, and studio rentals vary by medium.

What they offer: Classes, workshops, and studio spaces for ceramics, textiles, photography, and metalsmithing.

Chicago Printmakers Collaborative

A printmaking studio in Lincoln Square that provides access to equipment, workshops, and community events for printmakers. They host an annual “Small Print Show” featuring affordable, small-scale prints from local and international artists.

Cost: Open studio access starts at $150/month, and classes range from $200–$400.

What they offer: Access to printmaking equipment (etching presses, screen printing, etc.) and workshops.

Latitude Chicago

A digital lab and creative space offering resources like 3D printers, laser cutters, and software for artists working in digital media. Latitude was founded by artists who wanted to make high-tech tools accessible to creatives of all skill levels.

Cost: Membership starts at $50/month for basic access.

What they offer: Digital tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and software for digital art and design.

The WasteShed

A creative reuse center in Humboldt Park that provides affordable art supplies and materials, fostering sustainability in artmaking. The WasteShed has diverted over 100,000 pounds of materials from landfills since its founding.

Cost: Free to browse; materials are sold at low costs (e.g., $1 for a bag of fabric scraps).

What they offer: Affordable, donated art and craft supplies to promote sustainability.

Chicago Industrial Arts & Design Center (CIADC)

A space in Ravenswood offering classes and access to tools for metalworking, woodworking, and other industrial arts. CIADC was founded by a group of artists and educators who wanted to revive industrial arts education in Chicago.

Cost: Classes start at $200, and open studio access is $25/day.

What they offer: Classes and tools for metalworking, woodworking, and industrial design.

Sector 2337

A hybrid space in Logan Square combining a bookstore, event space, and small press, supporting experimental art and literary projects. The space is run by the nonprofit Green Lantern Press.

Cost: Free to visit; events and workshops are often low-cost or donation-based.

What they offer: A bookstore, event space, and small press for experimental art and literature.

Chicago Art Department (CAD)

A community-focused space in Pilsen offering workshops, studio access, and collaborative projects for artists. CAD was founded in 2004 by a group of artists who wanted to create an affordable, community-driven art space.

Cost: Free to visit; workshops and events are often donation-based or low-cost.

What they offer: Workshops, studio access, and collaborative projects for artists.

The Silver Room

A cultural hub in Hyde Park that hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and community events, often centered on music, fashion, and visual art. The Silver Room hosts an annual block party in Hyde Park that attracts thousands of attendees with live music, art installations, and vendors.

Cost: Free to visit; events and workshops vary in cost.

What they offer: A cultural hub for art, music, fashion, and community events.

Experimental Sound Studio (ESS)

A nonprofit in Ravenswood dedicated to sound art and experimental music, offering studios, workshops, and performance opportunities. ESS is home to the “Creative Audio Archive,” a collection of rare recordings and documents related to experimental sound.

Cost: Studio rentals start at $25/hour; workshops and events vary in cost.

What they offer: Studios, workshops, and performance opportunities for sound art and experimental music.

These spaces provide resources, tools, and community support for artists without being residency-based or traditional galleries. Pay them a visit next time you’re feeling uninspired!