July 2026 Newsletter
Events Calendar | Call for Artists | Volunteer
Board Member Opportunities
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES WAIVER
Chicago Sculpture International is waiving annual membership fees for members willing to devote time volunteering in any of the committees on our board and leadership page. Please check out here: www.chicagosculpture.org/board-leadership
Areas include:
Communications outreach; Assisting with panel and artist talks; Exhibitions, installations and opening receptions; Grants and development… and more. Contact info@chicagosculpture.org for additional information.
Start learning about the progress of our nonprofit organization today!
OPEN BOARD POSITIONS
Vice President
Acts as the president in his/her absence; assists the president with public relations, developing meeting agendas, committee management, and board governance. Frequently assigned to work on special areas of responsibility; membership, media, annual picnic, personnel, etc.
Treasurer
Manage and maintain financial database including banking relationships, IRS reports/filing alongside accountant, keeping track on deposits/disbursements while communicating with accountant and executive director.
Outreach Development
Maintains communication with sponsors and partnerships while sourcing new platforms for CSI engagement alongside communication with committee chairs (indoor/outdoor/grants/etc). Seeks funding sources including partnerships with agencies for arts organizational growth.
If you’re a CSI member (or would like to be), please e-mail info@chicagosculpture.org .
CSI at the Old Town
Art Fair
Top row: View of CSI booth at corner of Menomonee St. and North Park Ave. Bottom row (left to right): Darlys Ewoldt; Micki LeMieux with her sculpture, Calm Before The Storm; Brian Monaghan with his sculpture, RESTLESS.
Chicago Sculpture International was proud to participate in this year’s Old Town Art Fair, where the CSI booth welcomed visitors, showcased the work of members, and introduced countless fairgoers to the organization’s mission and programs.
Heartfelt thanks also go to the many volunteering CSI members whose time and enthusiasm helped make the weekend possible:
Donna Bliss, Darlys Ewoldt, Lynn Floriano, Anne Farley Gaines, Carol Hammerman, Beatriz Ledesma, Micki LeMieux, Anthony Heinz May, Brian Monaghan, Nancy Pirri, Gene Skala, and Rich Stewart
Special appreciation is extended to Scott Gerwitz for invaluable assistance with audio/visual setup and Micki LeMieux for her inexhaustible enthusiasm.
Finally, sincere gratitude goes to the outstanding leadership of the Old Town Art Fair—Philip Graff, Barbara Guttmann, Matthew Langer, and Laurie Miller—for continued support, hospitality, and partnership. Their dedication helps make the Old Town Art Fair one of Chicago’s premier art events, and CSI is grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.
Thank all who stopped by the booth, volunteered, and helped make the weekend such a rewarding experience.
Abstract Expressions
Exhibition Dates: June 5- July 31, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, June 5, from 6-9 pm
“Abstract Expressions” invites artists to explore the raw, unfiltered language of gesture, color, form, and movement—where emotion takes shape beyond representation and meaning emerges through instinct rather than depiction. Inspired by the bold innovations of artists such as Willem de Kooning, whose restless surfaces redefined the boundaries of abstraction, this exhibition seeks 2D, 3D, and 4D artworks that embrace tension, rhythm, spontaneity, and material presence.
We welcome submissions that embody expressive force, dynamic composition, and a fearless engagement with the medium. Works may investigate the dialogue between control and chaos, structure and gesture, density and void—reflecting the complexity of the human condition in all its vulnerability and power.
“Abstract Expressions” is not about what is seen, but what is felt - an immersive encounter with the energy of creation itself, emotion made visible.
Exhibiting Artists: Nikki Anderson,Pinar Aral,Tomas Co,Darlys Ewoldt,Ted Sitting Crow Garner,Shelley Gilchrist,Peter Gray,Carol Hammerman,Kasia Kay,Victoria Kowalczyk,Laurie LeBreton,Patrick Miceli,Scott Mossman,Rebecca Russow,Marvin Shafer,Yvette Kaiser Smith,Pat Stephens,Rich Stewart,Michele Thrane
Image Credit: StockCake
Project Windows!
Exhibition Dates: June 5- July 31, 2026
CSI is proud to be part of Project Windows, a citywide celebration of art presented in partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago. The project coincides with the museum’s summer exhibition, Willem de Kooning: Drawing and Abstract Art, featuring art-inspired window displays across the city.
CSI’s Project Windows installation will be featured at the CSI Project Space Gallery during our members’ summer exhibition, Abstract Expressions, June 5 through July 31.
While visiting, be sure to vote for your favorite Project Windows installation.
Cast a vote here.
CSI Project Space is located at 1912 N. Damen in Chicago.
Image credit: Example frames Micki LeMeaux
Voices in Form
Personal, political, or social narratives expressed through sculpture
Exhibition Dates: October 1 – November 12, 2026
About the Exhibit:
The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery is hosting a special juried exhibition, Voices in Form, which features work by artist members of the Chicago Sculpture International group.
Voices in Form invites sculptors to explore how three-dimensional works can carry, amplify, and embody personal, political, and social narratives. This exhibition seeks sculpture that functions as a form of visual language—expressing lived experience, cultural memory, identity, resistance, or reflection through material, process, and form. Artists are encouraged to consider how their work “speaks” in space, whether through symbolic imagery, abstract gesture, or the physical presence of the object itself. Submissions may address contemporary issues, historical perspectives, or deeply personal stories that resonate beyond the individual. All sculptural approaches and materials are welcome, including traditional, experimental, and mixed-media works. Voices in Form aims to create a compelling dialogue between diverse sculptural voices and the communities they engage.
Exhibiting Artists: Nikki Renee Anderson, Brian Divis, Darlys Ewoldt, Victoria Fuller, Spencer Gale, Ronald Gonzalez, James Hajicek, Azadeh Hussaini, Terrence Karpowicz, Fia Kim, Jill King, Pat Miceli, Bill Mitchell,Brian Monaghan, Jerry Monteith, Nancy Pirri, Marvin Shafer, Cherry Tung, Sishi Wang, and Bruce Webber
About the Juror:
Carrie Baxter, Art Gallery Director, and the IUK Art and NMAT Faculty will serve as the jurors.
Important Dates:
Exhibition: October 1 – November 5, 2026
Delivery of work: September 14-17, 2026
Exhibition closes: November 5, 2026
Location:
Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery
IU Kokomo Campus,
Room KA-102
2300 S. Washington St.
Kokomo, Indiana
Phone: (765)-455-9523
Gallery hours:
Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (EST)
Friday-Sunday: CLOSED
Whispers from the Unfamiliar: Call for Art
Submission Deadline: Friday, July 10, 2026
Artwork Dropoff: Sat/Sun, August 1-2
Opening Reception: Friday, August 7, from 6-9 pm
Exhibit Dates: August 7 – September 18, 2026
Whispers from the Unfamiliar invites artists to explore their relationship with the unknown . . . the quiet, unfiltered thoughts that flutter internally before taking shape in the real world. Intuition perceives our surroundings and understanding of self long before our conscious mind constructs words to rationalize them. The unfamiliar whispers in silent moments, revealing hidden emotions, forgotten histories, and subtle echoes of understanding. It weaves narratives while we sleep and wakes us with instant clarity and purpose. By embracing this unconscious conversation, we uncover insight into our identities and the world we inhabit.
We encourage artists to reflect on the whispers they encounter in these quiet moments. What messages do they convey to you? What stories are waiting to be told?
Curator, Stephanie Sailer
Guidelines:
Applicants must be current CSI members.
If you are not a current member, click hereContact Info: Name, address, phone, email, website
Include 1 to 3 jpeg images
Title, medium, size, price (with 30% donation added) or NFS
2D, 3D and 4D work accepted - Sculptural work encouraged
Open interpretations of the exhibit theme are welcomed.
The artist is responsible for all shipping costs related to the delivery and return of the sculpture.
A pre-paid return shipping label must be included inside the package in a clearly visible location for the installers.
Please note: We are requesting that exhibiting artists cover 1 or 2 gallery-sitting shifts during the duration of this show.
The submission form can be completed here
CSI Project Space is located at 1912 N. Damen in Chicago.
Image credit: Moment of Transition (detail) by Stephanie Sailer
Call for Artists: Momentum
Juried sculpture exhibition – October 10 – November 5, 2026
Submission Deadline: August 9, 2026
The title, “Momentum” refers to a call for works whose power for expression implies movement, direction, speed, or growth, transformation, or significantly, the “potential” for any of these ideas. The idea of momentum seems especially appropriate for sculpture because the viewer rarely experiences sculpture from a fixed viewpoint. All works of art or design convey visual elements that exist along a spectrum between static balance and dynamism, depending on the intent of the creator. For this exhibition, works are sought that lean strongly toward the dynamic end of that spectrum. Sculptures fully in the round and works in relief will be considered. Artists may submit three works for consideration.
About the Juror:
Beth Shadur is an artist who has exhibited widely in solo and group exhibitions in the United States and abroad. She has created over 150 large public murals as public, private, and community art projects in the United States and Great Britain. She has taught and served as a visiting artist at many colleges and universities. From 2012- 2024, Shadur served as Gallery Director at Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, IL. She has been awarded numerous residencies and fellowships. Her work is owned in many private and public collections.
Guidelines for Application
All artists are welcome to apply. If accepted, membership to CSI is required
If you are not a current member, click here to join.
Submission for up to three artworks / total of six JPEG images
JPEG files: 1800 x 1800 pixels, 300 dpi preferred
Image file title: Smith,John_title_1.jpg
Label information: Title, Artist Name, Medium, Size, Price/NFS
Contact info: Name, address, phone, email, website
Purchase price or NFS (Leslie Wolfe Gallery retains 25% of purchase price)
Artists will be required to arrange for delivery and pickup with a prepaid return shipping label
Important Dates:
Exhibition: October 10 – November 4, 2026
Submission Deadline: August 9, 2026
Notification: August 24, 2026
Delivery of work: October 8, 10AM – 5PM or October 9, 10AM – 1PM
Reception to coincide with Lincoln Park Art Night, October 15, 5:30 – 8:30PM
Pick up of work: November 4, 3PM – 9 PM or November 5, 10AM – 5PM
Location:
Leslie Wolfe Gallery
Old Town Art Center
1763 N. North Park Ave. Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 337-1938
Landscape Echoes: Texture, Form and Tension – Sculptures by Mike Baur
Exhibition runs from July 2 through September 25, 2026
Opening Reception:Thursday, July 2, 2026, 5:00pm to 8:00pm
CSI member and veteran Illinois artist Mike Baur has been creating sculptural works in the Chicago area since 1976. His pieces are featured in numerous public spaces and museum collections, including two works held by the Koehnline Museum of Art. This exhibition showcases sculptures inspired by the textures and forms of natural landscapes—often vast expanses interrupted by both organic and industrial elements.
Baur’s work offers abstract interpretations of these environments, frequently suggesting a horizontal orientation that reflects how natural forces can subdue vertical structures.
Koehnline Museum of Art
Oakton College
1600 E. Gold Road
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Gallery Summer Hours:
Monday through Thursday: 10 am - 7 pm
Aug. 3 - May 17 Hours:
Monday through Friday: 10 am - 6 pm
Saturdays: 11am -4 pm
For special visits call: (847) 635-2633
Call for Artists:
ISC Chapter Members Exhibition
Quarter Gallery, University of Minnesota
October 13 – November 14, 2026
Opening Reception: To be announced in conjunction with ISC Conference programming
The International Sculpture Center (ISC) invites submissions from ISC Chapter Members for a juried exhibition at the Quarter Gallery, located within the Regis Center for Art at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.This exhibition coincides with the 2026 ISC Sculpture Conference (October 22–25, Twin Cities) and will be presented alongside a sculpture faculty-curated exhibition featuring Minnesota-based sculptors in the Katherine E. Nash Gallery.
This unique opportunity places participating artists before conference attendees, the University of Minnesota community, the Twin Cities arts community, and the general public.The ISC Chapter Members Exhibition will share a joint reception with the Katherine E. Nash Gallery exhibition, providing exceptional visibility for participating artists.
Eligibility:
• Open to current ISC Chapter Members.• Artists may submit up to three (3) works.
• Works in progress, digital renderings, and sketches are acceptable for jury review.
Artwork Requirements:
• Maximum size: 12 x 12 x 12 inches
• Selected works may be displayed on pedestals or shelving, installed directly on the floor or wall, suspended from the ceiling
• Submission does not guarantee acceptance into the exhibition.
• Artists are responsible for shipping artwork to and from the gallery.
• Artists are not required to be present for installation.
• Accepted artwork must arrive by Friday, October 2, 2026.
Location:
Quarter Gallery
Regis Center for Art
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN
Click here for more details and to apply.
Image: Spoonbridge and Cherry, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, 1988. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Image courtesy of Meet Minneapolis.
International Sculpture Conference
The International Sculpture Conference is coming to Twin Cities, MN and the clock is ticking for enrollment in their upcoming round of panel discussions and all things sculpture. The dates are October 22-25, 2026. Please see: sculpture.org/mpage/TwinCities2026 for more specifics on what ISC is up to. Chicago Sculpture International is looking to be present in some shape or form, so if anyone is planning to go please e-mail info@chicagoscultpure.org to let us know!
Arts Midwest Free Webinar Series: “Building Your Creative Career”
Arts Midwest is offering a hands-on webinar series for artists looking to build visibility, funding, and momentum. The webinar series is designed to help artists build a creative career and connect their work with new audiences and navigate planning and the ongoing effort involved. While there is no single standard approach, shared experiences from other artists can provide useful context.
This free webinar series includes artists and creatives from across the Midwest discussing practical skills that support creative work outside the studio. Topics include presenting work, seeking funding, and managing visibility across different platforms.
Have any news to share?
Shows, awards, residencies etc? Submit here and we'll include them in an upcoming newsletter.
While you're at it, your profile and images on CSI’s website are important. When CSI applies for grants and upcoming shows, images are solely chosen from those you have uploaded to our website. Please take a minute to look over what you have posted and make sure you are presenting the best work. Please contact info@chicagosculpture.org with any questions or assistance you would like or need.
CSI projects are partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.
Chicago Sculpture International acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency for CSI programming including exhibitions and funding for Project Space Gallery.
CSI is a proud recipient of the Driehaus Foundation Arts and Culture Grant to help support funding and programming.
Chicago Sculpture International acknowledges support from the National Endowment for the Arts
Above: (right) Ron Gard’s sculpture The Struggle Against Death; (right) Ron in 2014 working in Lincoln Park on one of three tree sculptures, Dying to Survive Nos. #3, #6 & #9.
In Memory of Ron Gard
Chicago Sculpture International acknowledges Ivy Gard, who in 2020 graciously donated ongoing exhibition space (CSI Project Space) to CSI and its members in memory of Ron Gard and his achievements in sculpture and dedicated service for several years as treasurer of the organization.
Ron’s exquisite and exacting craftsmanship, along with his vast knowledge of materials and methods, is widely regarded and revered by CSI and his circle of peers.
Land Acknowledgement
The City of Chicago, and its surrounding areas, have always been and always will be, home to numerous Native American communities. As a team dedicated to the uplifting of Indigenous People's sovereignty everywhere, we recognize that each program and exhibition associated with this project is taking place on the traditional homelands of the Council of Three Fires - the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa - as well as the Menominee, Miami, and Ho-Chunk Nations. Further, we acknowledge that Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the US. We therefore invite each of our non-Indigenous colleagues to learn more about the forced removal of many of the communities listed above from the state of Illinois and to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their line of work. To provide immediate assistance to Native American Communities in Chicago, you can send donations to the city's American Indian Center here
Image credit: Moment of Transition (detail) by Stephanie Sailer, mixed media
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