Finding Space on Your Own

You can search for spaces in a number of ways. Walking around a neighborhood, looking for “For Rent” or “For Sale” signs, and talking to people is the most straightforward method. Asking friends and art contacts is also useful. Check out area and local neighborhood newspapers, especially the Chicago Reader's Space section. Look for advertisements for space on billboards, and check online real estate sites such as www.realtor.com, www.owners.com, Craig’s List and the Chicago Artists Resource SpaceFinder.

Many property owners and managers advertise specific types of spaces in professional and trade publications and at local art specific businesses. For example, if you are looking for a dance rehearsal space, try searching for dance-focused newspapers and periodicals, and look for postings in dance equipment stores and other related businesses. You can also contact arts-based businesses and organizations directly to ask if they know of any space opportunities. Arts organizations like the Chicago Music and Dance Alliance might also have listings of spaces for rent or sale. In addition, the Chicago Artists’ Coalition (CAC) newspaper, Chicago Artists’ News, and the League of Chicago Theaters provide classified listings of a variety of art spaces. (CAC also offers an informal space referral service.)

Neighborhood organizations are often eager to help artists move to their communities, as artists usually bring life and excitement to their areas. Contact the neighborhood chambers of commerce or area community development organizations for assistance. In addition, see the Neighborhood Profiles section of Chapter 15: Chicago’s Neighborhoods for a list of Chicago community and neighborhood development organizations. Again, business owners and other organizations in a particular community may have information on available space in the area.

Another successful tactic involves printing business cards, postcards or flyers with your contact information and information regarding your intentions and plans for the space. While walking through neighborhoods, post these “classified ads” at area communal meeting places (coffee houses, bookstores, grocery stores, etc.) and neighborhood organizations. You can also advertise your needs and requirements on Craig’s List, in neighborhood newspapers and other publications, as well as in trade-specific periodicals. Many individuals have found properties this way.

For artists with disabilities, the Illinois Fair Housing Network and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities offer extensive resources to aid you in locating spaces and housing that fits your needs.

Various area businesses, developers and organizations provide work or live/work space for lease to artists. Space availability can fluctuate, so check listings frequently. For information on space availability, visit the Chicago Artists Resource Space Finder.