Chicago Sculpture International

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Chicago Sculpture International

Chicago Sculpture International (CSI) is an affiliate organization of the International Sculpture Center (ISC).

Interpreting Life Through Sculpture for Everyone

In the early 1980s, a cooperative of sculptors created an exhibition on Chicago’s Navy Pier, featuring numerous outdoor sculptures. Inspired by this exhibition’s public appreciation, the cooperative continued to display sculptures around the city. In 2004, the group formed Chicago Sculpture International; founding members are Nicole Beck, Bob Emser

, Terry Karpowicz, Christine Rojek, Tom Scarff and Barry Tinsley. Chicago Sculpture International was the first recognized chapter of the International Sculpture Center, which publishes Sculpture Magazine and supports sculptors through exhibitions, conferences, and funding opportunities. Currently, Chicago Sculpture International includes over 200 local, national and international members. Chicago Sculpture International organizes multiple indoor and outdoor exhibitions annually to showcase contemporary sculpture throughout the Midwest. These have included exhibits at Chicago’s International Art Expo, Oakton Community College, and the Elks National Memorial. Outdoor exhibitions are often in collaboration with the Chicago Park District, exhibiting sculpture in parks and conservatories throughout the city, including venues such as the Lincoln Park Zoo. Sponsored by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, in conjunction with the Chicago Park District, Chicago Sculpture International exhibited work on the city’s boulevards over the last few years. While hosting the 23rd International Sculpture Conference in 2012, Chicago Sculpture International installed sixty-four sculptures spanning the lakefront from Promontory Point on the south to Belmont Harbor on the north. The Chicago Tree Project was created in partnership with the Chicago Park District in the summer of 2014. This citywide plan invites sculptors to transform dying trees into vibrant public art. The Chicago Tree Project, along with countless other exhibitions, serves as a vital part of Chicago Sculpture International’s mission: to bring sculpture to the community.

08/20/2026

A few more highlights from the "Whispers from the Unfamiliar" exhibition at CSI Project Space.

The gallery is open this weekend:

Friday, 2–6 pm
Saturday, 12–4 pm
Sunday, 1–5 pm

“Whispers from the Unfamiliar” is on view at the CSI Project Space Gallery.

Curated by Stephanie Sailer, the group exhibition brings together artists exploring the unknown—the quiet thoughts, intuitions, memories, and emotions that emerge before they can be put into words.

On view through September 4, 2026.

📍 CSI Project Space Gallery
1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Bucktown, at Damen & Cortland

Featuring artwork by: Debra Balchen, Roland Biermann, Bethany Cordero, Alexis Di Stefano, Brian Divis, Gertah, Abby Giurfa, Carol Hammerman, Alex Jarus, Nico Kazlauskas, John Kurman, Elizabeth La Bouef, Kim Laurel, Micki LeMieux, Ellen Lustig, Scott Mossman, Marvin Shafer, David Skora, Rich Stewart, Nancy Van Kanegan, and Audrey Yang.

For more information: [email protected]

08/14/2026

"Whispers from the Unfamiliar" is now on view at the CSI Project Space Gallery!

Curated by Stephanie Sailer, this compelling group exhibition invites artists to explore the unknown—the quiet thoughts, intuitions, memories, and emotions that emerge before they can be put into words.

Exhibiting Artists: Debra Balchen, Roland Biermann, Bethany Cordero, Alexis Di Stefano, Brian Divis, Gertah, Abby Giurfa, Carol Hammerman, Alex Jarus, Nico Kazlauskas, John Kurman, Elizabeth La Bouef, Kim Laurel, Micki LeMieux, Ellen Lustig, Scott Mossman, Marvin Shafer, David Skora, Rich Stewart, Nancy Van Kanegan, and Audrey Yang

On view through September 4, 2026

📍 CSI Project Space Gallery
1912 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
Bucktown, at Damen & Cortland

Gallery Hours:
Friday: 2–6 pm
Saturday: 12–4 pm
Sunday: 1–5 pm

for more information: [email protected]

Image credit: "Omwei" by Alex Juras, Walnut wood, milk paint, 8 x 8 x 8 in.

08/10/2026

New Outdoor Sculptures Have Arrived!

Chicago Sculpture International is excited to welcome three new sculptures by CSI members to Chicago-area parks.

Two sculptures are part of the City of Evanston’s Outdoor Sculpture Program:

📍 Twiggs Park, Evanston
“Voronoi Chair” by Patrick D. Wilson
Powder-coated steel
84 × 36 × 38 in.

📍 Independence Park, Evanston
“The Martians Are Coming” by Howard Russo
Powder-coated steel, cast glass, and brazed steel
87 × 30 × 27 in.

And in Chicago:

📍 Lincoln Park (at Diversey & 2800 N. Lake Shore Drive)
“Morning Stretch” by Paul Brobowitz
Painted steel
129 × 151 × 56 in.

Congratulations to the artists Patrick D. Wilson, Howard Russon, and Paul Brobowitz on these exciting installations!

08/07/2026

–
Reminder: The submission deadline for "Momentum" group exhibition at Leslie Wolfe Gallery is this
Sunday, August 9, 11:59pm

Exhibition Dates: October 10 – November 5, 2026

About the exhibit:
The title "Momentum" refers to a call for works whose power for expression implies movement, direction, speed, or growth, transformation, or significantly, the “potential” for any of these ideas. The idea of momentum seems especially appropriate for sculpture because the viewer rarely experiences sculpture from a fixed viewpoint. All works of art or design convey visual elements that exist along a spectrum between static balance and dynamism, depending on the intent of the creator. For this exhibition, works are sought that lean strongly toward the dynamic end of that spectrum. Sculptures fully in the round and works in relief will be considered. Artists may submit three works for consideration.

About the Juror:
Beth Shadur is an artist who has exhibited widely in solo and group exhibitions in the United States and abroad. She has created over 150 large public murals as public, private, and community art projects in the United States and Great Britain. She has taught and served as a visiting artist at many colleges and universities. From 2012-2024, Shadur served as Gallery Director at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, IL. She has been awarded numerous residencies and fellowships. Her work is owned in many private and public collections.

Guidelines for Application:
• All artists are welcome to apply. If accepted, membership to CSI is required
• Submission for up to three artworks / total of six JPEG images
• Contact info: Name, address, phone, email, website
• Label information: Title, Artist Name, Medium, Size, Price/NFS
• Purchase price or NFS (Leslie Wolfe Gallery retains 25% of purchase price)
• Artists will be required to arrange for delivery and pickup with a prepaid return shipping label

Notifications: August 24, 2026

To apply: tinyurl.com/momentum-call-for-artists

08/03/2026

"Whispers from the Unfamiliar"
at the CSI Project Space Gallery

Opening Reception:
This Friday, August 7, from 6-9 pm

Exhibition Dates: August 7 – September 4, 2026

"Whispers from the Unfamiliar" invites artists to explore their relationship with the unknown… the quiet, unfiltered thoughts that flutter internally before taking shape in the real world. Intuition perceives our surroundings and understanding of self-long before our conscious mind constructs words to rationalize them. The unfamiliar whispers in silent moments, revealing hidden emotions, forgotten histories, and subtle echoes of understanding. It weaves narratives while we sleep and wakes us with instant clarity and purpose. By embracing this unconscious conversation, we uncover insight into our identities and the world we inhabit.

Curated by Stephanie Sailer

Exhibiting Artists: Debra Balchen, Roland Biermann, Bethany Cordero, Alexis Di Stefano, Brian Divis, Gertah, Abby Giurfa, Carol Hammerman, Alex Jarus, Nico Kazlauskas, John Kurman, Elizabeth La Bouef, Kim Laurel, Micki LeMieux, Ellen Lustig, Scott Mossman, Marvin Shafer, David Skora, Rich Stewart, Nancy Van Kanegan, Audrey Yang

Location:
CSI Project Space Gallery
1912 N. Damen Ave. Chicago, IL.

(At the corner of Cortland and Damen Avenues, in the Bucktown neighborhood)

Gallery Hours:
Fri, 2-6 pm
Sat, 12-4 pm
Sun, 1-5 pm

07/21/2026

Vote for Chicago Sculpture International in Project Windows!

On view until Friday, July 31, 2026�Public Voting Ends: August 18

Participating Artists:
Darlys Ewoldt, Anne Farley Gaines, Laurie LeBreton, Micki LeMieux, Beatriz Ledesma, Thomas Plum, Eleanor Speiss-Ferris, Rich Stewart, Rachel Stork, and Nancy VanKanegan.

Chicago Sculpture International is proud to participate in Project Windows, a citywide celebration of art presented in partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago. The project coincides with the museum’s summer exhibition, Willem de Kooning: Drawing and Abstract Art, featuring art-inspired window installations throughout Chicago.

CSI’s Project Windows installation is on view at the CSI Project Space Gallery as part of the members’ summer exhibition, Abstract Expressions, on display through July 31, and can be viewed 24/7.��Location:�1912 North Damen Avenue, Chicago�(at the corner of Damen and Cortland Avenues in the Bucktown neighborhood)�view location on Google maps.

View the Project Windows Entries Online

Browse all of the participating window displays by geographic area—Downtown, North Side, South Side, West Side, and Beyond the City.

Be sure to scroll to the “West Side” section to find Chicago Sculpture International – Project Space Gallery.

Vote for CSI!

Voting is open through August 18.

Here’s how to vote:
1. Visit the Project Windows voting page: https://tinyurl.com/Project-Windows-Vote
2. Select West Side.
3. Click Next.
4. Under “I vote for…”, select Chicago Sculpture International – Project Space Gallery.
5. Click Submit.

Thank for supporting Chicago Sculpture International and helping celebrate public art throughout Chicago!��

For more information: [email protected]

07/13/2026

"Intersections: Art, Planning and Market Place"
This Friday, July 17th, 2:00-6:30 pm.
(doors open at 1:30 p.m.)

Presented by Elevated Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) with special thanks to Agape Collective

Intersections: Art, Planning and Place is a gathering of artists, community leaders, planners, and entrepreneurs focused on the power of creativity to strengthen place and communities is a half day event uplifting resources needed to activate arts and culture in their communities. Join Intersections for an afternoon of panel discussions, workshops, networking, and a resource fair to explore approaches to creative placemaking and placekeeping.

Cultural workers, community organizations and residents are encouraged to attend.

Friday, July 17th
2:00 p.m. -6:30 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 p.m.)
alt_ Chicago
5645 West Corcoran Place
Chicago, IL 60644

For more information and to reserve a spot:
https://tinyurl.com/DCASE-Intersections

Visit ChicagoMade.Us to learn more about Chicago Made, DCASE's professional development and resources for creatives.

Visit ElevatedChicago.org to learn more about Culture Near Transit, Elevated Chicago's Arts & Culture Strategy to protect, preserve, and perpetuate community cultures as a fundamental part of equitable transit-oriented development (ETOD) and community growth in Chicago.

07/10/2026

Call for Artists:
ISC Group Exhibition at University of Minnesota's Quarter Gallery

The August 19th submission deadline is approaching for ISC Chapter Members for the forthcoming exhibition at the University of Minnesota's Quarter Gallery from October 13 - November 14, 2026 (5 week run).

This exhibition will coincide with the ISC Sculpture Conference (Oct 22-25, Twin Cities) and a Department of Art sculpture faculty curated exhibition featuring Minnesota based sculptors in the Katherine E. Nash Gallery.

For more information and to apply: tinyurl.com/ISC-2026-group-exhibit

This ISC Chapter Members exhibition will share a joint reception with the Katherine E. Nash Gallery exhibition, exposing your work to a wide audience including the University of Minnesota, the Twin Cities arts and culture scene, and the surrounding community. For a better sense of the gallery space please see this sample exhibition here.

• Works can be no larger than 12 x 12 x 12 inches
• Submit up to (3) works (works in progress or digital renderings / sketches qualify for submission)
• Selected works may be installed on pedestals or shelving, directly on the floor or wall, or suspended from the ceiling
• Artist is responsible for shipping both ways ( selected artworks should include a return shipping label)
• Artist does not need to be present for installation
• Submission does not guarantee inclusion in the exhibition

Timeline and Key Dates:

Deadline for submissions Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Notification of acceptance Friday, September 4, 2026
Accepted works must arrive at the Gallery by Friday, October 2, 2026
Accepted works can be shipped to:

Regis Center for Art
Attn: Teréz Iacovino, Gallery Director
405 21st Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Exhibition runs October 13 - November 14, 2026

Exhibition Reception / Programing to be confirmed based on ISC Conference Programing

Works will be returned after November 20, 2026

If you have questions about the application process or other concerns please feel free to email Art Preparator Kaitlin Wilfing at [email protected] .

07/08/2026

Join sculptors, educators, students, and arts professionals from around the world at the International Sculpture Conference, October 22–25, 2026, in Minneapolis–Saint Paul.

The conference features inspiring keynote speakers, thought-provoking panels, exhibitions, artist studio tours, and exceptional networking opportunities.

Don't miss the celebrated Bronze Pour at Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center and a party at Franconia Sculpture Park, one of the conference's signature experiences.

Now is the perfect time to reserve your spot to save. Affordable accommodations are available at just $109 per night, and attendees can take advantage of a Delta Air Lines flight discount code.

Also, limited scholarships are available to students at institutions with ISC membership. Applications close July 15th.

Learn more and register at: https://sculpture.org/mpage/TwinCities2026

07/06/2026

Call for Artists:
"Whispers from the Unfamiliar"
at CSI Project Space Gallery

Submission Deadline: Friday, July 10, 2026, 11:59pm CST
Artwork Dropoff: Sat/Sun, August 1-2
Exhibition Dates: August 7 – September 18, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, August 7, from 6-9 pm

About the Exhibition:

Whispers from the Unfamiliar invites artists to explore their relationship with the unknown . . . the quiet, unfiltered thoughts that flutter internally before taking shape in the real world. Intuition perceives our surroundings and understanding of self long before our conscious mind constructs words to rationalize them. The unfamiliar whispers in silent moments, revealing hidden emotions, forgotten histories, and subtle echoes of understanding. It weaves narratives while we sleep and wakes us with instant clarity and purpose. By embracing this unconscious conversation, we uncover insight into our identities and the world we inhabit.

We encourage artists to reflect on the whispers they encounter in these quiet moments. What messages do they convey to you? What stories are waiting to be told?

Curator, Stephanie Sailer

Guidelines:
• Applicants must be current CSI members. If you are not a current member, click here https://www.chicagosculpture.org/join-csi
• Contact Info: Name, address, phone, email, website
• Include 1 to 3 jpeg images
• Title, medium, size, price (with 30% donation added) or NFS
• 2D, 3D and 4D work accepted - Sculptural work encouraged
• Open interpretations of the exhibit theme are welcomed.
• The artist is responsible for all shipping costs related to the delivery and return of the sculpture.�A pre-paid return shipping label must be included inside the package in a clearly visible location for the installers.

Please note: We are requesting that exhibiting artists cover 1 or 2 gallery-sitting shifts during the duration of this show.

The submission form can be completed here:
https://forms.gle/WJTKLVxH1942DTTp9

CSI Project Space is located at 1912 N. Damen in Chicago.��For more info: [email protected]

Address

1200 W 35th St
Chicago, IL
60609

Website

https://www.chicagosculpture.org/

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