About

Homeroom is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to encourage and facilitate new creative programming in Chicago. We do this in two ways: by serving as a catalyst for the creation of new networks of artists, curators and venues; and by arranging performance and exhibition venues for these collaborations at no cost to the artists. In
essence, we are a not-for-profit producing organization promoting new creative content.

Arranging exhibition and performance space at no cost to artists promotes artistic experimentation and growth by liberating artists from the financial and artistic constraints typically associated with commercial venues. As a result, Homeroom programming features some of Chicago’s best new art, film, music and literary readings. We believe the development of new programming and growth of Chicago’s creative communities is vital to the economic and cultural vitality of the broader community.

Homeroom achieves its mission in several ways:

Promotes artistic experimentation and growth by underwriting the cost of booking venues.

In opening up new performance and exhibition opportunities, helps artists hone their craft through live audience engagement.

Connects artists, often across genres, to spark artistic innovation and creation of new creative networks.

Supports the growth of venues that feature new content and artistic collaborations.

Engages audiences with new content in intimate settings that encourage interaction with the artists.

Provides opportunities for innovative, progressive donors to fund new content and promote the growth of vibrant Chicago creative communities in Chicago.

Homeroom was established in 2008 by a group of Chicago musicians and artists whose collaboration began as high school students in the late 1990s. It continued with the opening of the Ice Factory, a loft space on Ashland Avenue that for five years hosted a broad range of shows and content. The Ice Factory gave rise to the idea of using free performance space as a means of inspiring artistic collaboration and new creative content.

Homeroom is governed by a Board of Directors and funded entirely by private charitable donations.