http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org Arts & Culture in Chicago's Hyde Park Neighborhood Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:23 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:09:42 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3607 2011 was a year of “bests” for HyPa’s arts and cultural organizations.  Whether it was for theatre, museum exhibitions, art, music, architecture or food … the awards and accolades are shining on the Chicago Culture Coast. In performances the Court Theatre stole the show.  This year the Court earned prestigious Jeff Awards for Director Charles Newell and Music Director Doug Peck in the “Large Musical” category for their new look at “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.”  Chris Jones, theater critic for the Chicago Tribune included An Iliad as one of the top 10 best shows of 2011.  And TimeOut Chicago featured both shows in their 2011 top 10 list. The “best art exhibit in the last year or so” according to New City was at The Renaissance Society for their showcase of William J. O’Brien’s ceramic and assemblage heads.  New City sited O’Brien as one of Chicago’s best emerging artists, and “the Renaissance Society gave him the space to prove it.” Other Culture Coast museums took center stage this year.  The Museum of Science and Industry’s new, permanent exhibition, Science Storms is the recipient of 16 national and international awards including the top exhibit honor from the American Association of Museums.  And the Oriental Institute’s recent special exhibition, Before the Pyramids was recognized by the Chicago Reader as the “Best Museum Exhibit of 2011”. Two of the best achievements in architecture this year, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Blair Kamin, are on the University of Chicago campus.  Kamin describes Helmut Jahn’s Joe and Rika Mansueto Library as “a steel-and-glass elliptical dome sheltering a spectacular reading room that is enlivened by natural light and views of the neo-Gothic campus … and an ingenious solution to the U. of C.’s decision to keep books on campus instead of moving them off-site, as other universities have done.”  Kamin also highlights the “Light Sabers” the university installed as a major streetscape upgrade, “designed by New York artist James Carpenter, to break down the Midway’s vast scale and are far more appealing to the eye than conventional street lights.” And Chicago Magazine named the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago, saying “this precocious five-year-old festival swings like mad.” And it will again on September 29 and 30, 2012. Capping off this year of bests was Hyde Park’s fine French restaurant, La Petite Folie, receiving the Bib Gourmand Restaurant rating from the Michelin Chicago Guide. Please share your “best” experiences in the arts and cultural organizations of the Chicago Culture Coast on our Facebook page.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/the-%e2%80%9cbests%e2%80%9d-of-2011/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:57:18 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3522 Reprinted courtesy of Concierge Preferred When looking for things to do in Hyde Park in Chicago, there’s no shortage of parks, museums, galleries, information centers, architectural sites, education centers, religious institutions, and more. Taking a walk through Hyde Park will expose Chicagoans and tourists alike to the vast array of things to see and do, as well as the chance to admire the elegant houses and apartments that have lined the shaded streets for more than a century. Concierge Preferred is the tourist’s and visitor’s guide to enjoying all that Hyde Park has to offer, as well as the surrounding areas that are all within walking distance. Architectural Sites — Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House and the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, along with the rest of UChicago’s impressive quad area. Restaurants — Hyde Park features restaurants sure to suit all palates. Internationally inspired restaurants range from the French cuisine of La Petite Folie, the jazz-inspired Park 52, to the Asian fusion Chant, Italian Piccolo Mondo, and Middle Eastern comfort food of The Nile to the Caribbean-Cajun Calypso Café. Hyde Park also offers more traditional Chicago fare at the Valois, Jimmy’s Woodlawn Tap, and Medici on 57th Street. Hyde Park has it all. Educational Institutions — Most of the Hyde Park area is owned by The University of Chicago, which only adds to its superior culture and diversity. The university is responsible for bringing the Smart Museum, Renaissance Society, and Court Theatre to the area. At Stagg Field, academic achievement is also commemorated Henry Moore’s sculpture “Nuclear Energy” commemorating the world’s first nuclear chain-reaction. Parks — Enjoy strolling through Hyde Park’s scenic Midway Plaisance (home to the 1893 World’s Fair), Jackson Park, or Washington Park. Museums — One of the best aspects of Hyde Park is the art and culture it brings to Chicago. Hyde Park is the home to a plethora of museums such as the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Oriental Institute.   Bookstores & Libraries — Of course, a cultural center like Hyde Park is home to a dynamic literary community. Hyde Park boasts the University of Chicago Regenstein Library, as well as new, used, and independent bookstores like Powell’s Book Store and O'Gara and Wilson Ltd., Chicago’s oldest used book store.   Barack Obama’s Home — Even though it may be difficult to get too close due to security, Hyde Park is also right by President Barack Obama’s Kenwood home.   There is so much to do and see in Hyde Park that it’s practically its own cultural center within the cultural center of Chicago itself. Find out everything there is to do in Hyde Park with the help of Concierge Preferred. Tourists and Chicagoans alike can find out about the best that’s going on in Chicago through Concierge Preferred online, the city’s guide to everything in and around the Chicagoland area.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/things-to-do-in-hyde-park/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:53:26 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3451 October in Chicago means fantastic fall foliage and Chicago Artists Month (CAM). “Artful Networks” is the theme for this year's CAM and we have plenty of Artful Networks here in Hyde Park. This is a great time to focus on the visual arts presented by nature as well as the many visual arts organizations in Hyde Park including the Hyde Park Art Center, Little Black Pearl, Renaissance Society, and Smart Museum of Art. As always, HyPa keeps a calendar of events to help you plan your visits to Hyde Park’s arts and culture organizations. Explore the artful networks  in Hyde Park!]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/celebrate-chicago-artist-month/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 03:03:34 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3349 The following article is a guest blog from HydeParkJazzBlog. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of joining the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture for the last of their 2011 series of “Get Up and Go” Insider Tours – guided tours of Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. For this tour, we traveled from the loop down Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park, home of the 5th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival, led by Rebecca Janowitz, author of the book Culture of Opportunity: Obama’s Chicago – the People, Politics and Ideas of Hyde Park and a resident Hyde Parker. The afternoon began with a talk with Rebecca in the reading room of the Chicago Cultural Center. She started with the neighborhood’s history – originally envisioned as a refuge from the city proper, the neighborhood eventually merged with Chicago but remained a beautiful location, chock full of parks, architecture, and great restaurants. The University of Chicago and the World’s Fair both found a home in Hyde Park in the late 19th century, and brought new light to the area as an epicenter of knowledge and culture. Hyde Park is also the most racially diverse neighborhood in the city. In the early 40s and 50s, when most of the city was enforcing restrictive housing laws, most Hyde Parkers happily welcomed African-Americans into their community. Black politicians forged alliances with white Hyde Park leaders, creating a legacy of diversity that makes Hyde Park a perfect place for the Jazz Fest. Ms. Janowitz then told tour-goers some exciting things to do and see in Hyde Park – places which you might want to check out while you’re visiting this weekend for the Fest. Hyde Park is a neighborhood of thinkers and readers – Janowitz joked, “Everyone in Hyde Park has written a book” – and, consequently it’s home to a number of great independent bookstores, where the employees are well-versed in literature. Powell’s, O’Gara and Wilson, The Seminary Co-Op, and 57th Street Books all have huge selections of both used and new books. There are a number of great restaurants; Janowitz recommends Valois, a diner which ranks among Obama’s favorites, Rajun Cajun, Chicago’s only cajun-indian restaurant with great vegetarian options, and the Medici, a pizzeria frequented by UChicago students. Hyde Park itself is also gorgeous. There is beautiful architecture, including the famous Robie House, a Jazz Fest location, and the Heller House, both designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There is also an abundance of parks. Hyde Parkers love taking long walks down to the lakefront on the East, through a park called the Point, which also offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. When we step off the 6 Bus in Hyde Park, we’re already excited. It’s a beautiful, sunny day with a perfect breeze, and Hyde Park is at its most beautiful, with green foliage everywhere. We walk down 53rd street, passing by Valois and Rajun Cajun. We turn south at Kenwood Avenue, and cross through Nichols Park, one of the neighborhood’s many great outdoor relaxation areas. When we reach 57th street, we turn east, towards the lake, and pass a number of great independent bookstores, finally ending up in the maze of well-stocked shelves that is Powell’s Bookstore. We are all excited to continue to explore Hyde Park.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/hyde-park-a-neighborhood-of-thinkers/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:29:00 +0000 admin http://hypachicago.org/?p=3333 FINALLY – it is here … the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Yes, we are talking about 2 days/20 hours of some of the greatest jazz music in Chicago. The Jazz Fest was called the “Best Neighborhood Music Festival in Chicago” by Chicago Magazine and the Tribune just called us “the fastest-growing jazz party in Chicago”. You do not want to miss this. The music will start on Saturday at 1pm and will continue through to the Midnight Jam with performances at 13 venues throughout Hyde Park. On Sunday the music will all be on the Midway from 1 to 8pm. This year the James W. Wagner Main Stage is taking over the STREET in the Midway Plaisance South for a larger stage, better sound, and more seating (bring lawn chairs) with entrances at Woodlawn and Ellis. Find all the information on how to get to the Jazz Fest and where to park for free, the route for the free Jazz Fest bus, the full line up of performances, the schedule for the family tent programming, how to reserve the best seats in the house (hint: Jazz Pass) and so much more on the Jazz Fest web site and Facebook page. SEE YOU THIS WEEKEND AT THE HYDE PARK JAZZ FEST.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/come-to-the-hyde-park-jazz-festival-this-weekend-sept-24-25/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/#comments Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:03:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3277 It is mid-August and many of us are thinking about getting back to school or business or both.  How about getting back to the arts!  There are many ways to get involved.  Think about taking some classes.  Take a look at the HyPa organizations that interest you.  We have them categorized on our Arts & Culture page.  Whether you are interested in music, visual arts, humanities … there are lessons waiting for you. Another way to get involved is by volunteering.  There are so many arts and cultural organizations that would welcome your help.  Whatever your skill set is - you can offer your services based on your time schedule and you will find new friends, interests and the satisfaction that comes from getting involved in the arts.  Make this the year that you become a docent, an usher, help in the office, or anything else that interests you.  Just click on most of the HyPa member organizations and you will find a volunteer or “get involved” button. Speaking of volunteering, please consider signing up today to help out at the 5^th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival coming up September 24 and 25.  There are so many different areas that we need your help including greeters, ushers, set up, info booths, data entry, drivers … and the list goes on.  We are expecting almost 400 volunteers this year.  The best way to enjoy the festival is to be part of it.  Go ahead and sign up here.  We can promise you it will be fun, you will make new friends and you will receive a free t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do this fall we hope you will find a way to get involved with the Arts and Culture of Chicago’s Culture Coast.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/how-can-you-get-involved-with-the-arts/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/#comments Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:28:48 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3231 Celebrating the arts on Chicago’s mid-south side is part of HyPa’s DNA.  We seek every opportunity to connect artists and residents, organizations and communities to explore and inspire each other through the arts.  So we are excited to once again transform our store front space at 5226 S. Harper Avenue, in Hyde Park, into an artist’s studio and exhibition space during October’s Chicago Artists Month (CAM). HyPa looks forward to participating in Chicago Artist Month as it is another opportunity to bring to the community an interactive and collaborative artistic experience to our space on Harper right off of 53^rd Street. This open studio exhibition will be part of over 200 CAM events, ranging from exhibitions to neighborhood art walks presented by museums, galleries, cultural centers, artist collaboratives, and other organizations throughout the city.  Proposals are currently being accepted by HyPa from artists or artist groups that would like work with the community in developing a temporary public art project. Proposals are due by Monday, August 15^th 2011, 5:00 PM.  Please review the Request For Proposal.  Updates to this and all HyPa related events will be posted on our HyPa Facebook Page so please be sure to Like Us and let us know if you have any questions.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/3231/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/#comments Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:24:54 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3195 Whether you are new to the neighborhood or looking to experience our communities in a new way, exploring all of the tours available in and around the greater Hyde Park area would be well worth your while.  This summer is the time to take in everything Chicago’s Culture Coast offers by foot, by bike, or by bus. Those looking to retrace the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago would do well to look into  "The White City... Then and Now" tour, which explores the former sites of the fair, and is offered by the Museum of Science and Industry. If you want to explore the neighborhood, check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation's walking tours of Hyde Park on August 7th and September 11th, and Kenwood's 15-square block historic district on September 24th and October 15th. A number of tours kick off at the Hyde Park Art Center, including "Bobby's Bike Hike: Historical Hyde Park Tour," and the FREE "Hyde Park Instagreeter Tour," both available on weekends throughout the summer. On July 16th and September 24th, you can also take a bus ride with "Hyde Park & Kenwood: Chicago Neighborhood Tours," which departs from the Chicago Cultural Center. Also, don’t miss out on the Family Adventures Tours, offered by the City in partnership with HyPa, the Hyde Park Alliance for Arts and Culture! Family Adventures offers a neighborhood tour of Hyde Park with plenty to see for parents and kids, alike. Tours will be held on July 23^rd and August 5^th Find your creative side in a tour and art-making activity at the Hyde Park Art Center (July 23) or visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House (August 5) and participate in an art glass workshop. Lunch in a nearby park and a jam session with Marsha’s Music round out the day. The Family Adventure to Jackson Park explores nature through a tour of Osaka Garden. Tickets can be found here. And if you are looking to explore the South Side beyond Hyde Park’s borders, Family Adventures also offers a “Bridgeport/IIT” tour that takes you to Cellular Field and IIT’s Bronzeville campus. Check out these tours, as well as others, such as the "Restoring Bronzeville Tour," offered by the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. offers "Hop On, Hop Off" tours and has expanded their South Neighborhoods Tour featuring the Museum of Science and Industry to include a stop at Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and a chance to explore the surrounding area, suggesting such arts and cultural gems as the Oriental Institute Museum, Smart Museum, and the University of Chicago campus.  When it's time to eat, take your pick—options range from pizza to Thai to Middle Eastern and beyond, and don't miss the hub of great independent bookstores on 57th Street between Harper and Kimbark. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.'s Explore Chicago Tour combines this South Neighborhoods Tour with two more neighborhoods and highlights of downtown Chicago. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House offers tours frequently throughout the summer as well. And for jazz fans out there that can't wait for the Hyde Park Jazz Festival the last weekend in September, you can venture out into the city and check out "Our Chicago Sound: Jazz, Blues and Beyond" at Chicago Detours. More information about tours around Hyde Park and Chicago is available at Explore Chicago Tours. By bus, bike, or foot - Make this the summer to explore the Culture Coast! ]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/learn-about-south-side-neighborhood-tours/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/#comments Mon, 09 May 2011 18:06:22 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=3121 Join Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts,  for a ‘pre-launch “reception on Friday, June 3 from 6:30 – 8pm in the HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper.  For the past two and half months HyPa’s artist in residence and his students have built sculptural rafts that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” along the Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore line.  The Landing will be on Saturday, June 4 on a location to be announced soon.  Jeremiah hopes this work will stimulate thought and conversation regarding the U.S.’s current immigration policy and first contact experiences between cultures.   See the progress unfold on Jeremiah’s new blog. Now through June 4, the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah works in the space after school and evenings and the high school students join him on weekends.  In addition, Jeremiah has utilized discarded construction materials from current construction projects on the University of Chicago campus. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford utilized a Fulbright Scholarship last summer to create another raft based project in Sicily, Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as at DePaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children’s Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/chicago-high-school-for-the-arts-%e2%80%98pre-launch%e2%80%99-reception/feed/ 0 http://hypachicago.org/stories/give-me-a-place-to-stand-and-i-will-move-the-world/ http://hypachicago.org/stories/give-me-a-place-to-stand-and-i-will-move-the-world/#comments Tue, 05 Apr 2011 01:43:36 +0000 aaron http://hypachicago.org/?p=2925 The HyPa Space at 5226 S. Harper is now an artist-in-residence studio for Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford and his high school students from ChiArts, the Chicago High School for the Arts.  Together they are building sculptural rafts and plastic bag costumes that the ChiArts students will use to stage an “immigrant landing” on the Gold Coast this June designed to explore the psycho-geographies of immigrant landings on foreign shores.  The public is invited to visit with the artist and students whenever they are working in the studio. And you can follow their work 24/7 on Jeremiah's new blog. Now through June the public is invited to watch the rafts take shape.  Jeremiah will be in the space after school and evenings and the high school students will be working with him on weekends.  The project is being constructed with discarded construction materials from the University of Chicago.  Sponsored by HyPa, Jeremiah’s goal is for the students and public to understand how art can address real world issues such as immigration and first contact between cultures.  Watch this space for information about public programming around this project and the “raft landing” in June.  Stop by and visit as there is always Art Here Art Now at HyPa. Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford is a Fulbright Scholar and has just returned from working in Italy.  He earned his Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Illinois Chicago, and went on to teach there as well as DuPaul, the British Institute and he co-directed the Children's Expressive Arts Project, that works around the world to effect change through the arts.  His work has been exhibited at the Hyde Park Art Center among other spaces.  He lives in Hyde Park with his wife and two young children.]]> http://hypachicago.org/stories/give-me-a-place-to-stand-and-i-will-move-the-world/feed/ 0