Founded in 1973, University Galleries of Illinois State University is one of the premier exhibition spaces for contemporary art in the Midwest. Its mission is to foster a greater understanding of contemporary art in urban and rural communities, while providing support for artists at pivotal points in their careers. Consistent with their university heritage, University Galleries cultivate a laboratory of expression that embraces various approaches to creating and experiencing art. They bring socially engaged art, performance, and experimental process to their region, while furthering the careers of artists through residences, exhibitions and publications, and funding for new projects.
University Galleries of Illinois State University
“We strive to support institutions that share our artist-centered values. The small grassroots arts organizations as well as the museums that comprise our grantees provide invaluable opportunities for artists to express their unique perspectives on the pressing urgencies of the day. We hope that our grants help to amplify artists’ voices within their communities, in national discussions and debates, and across platforms in the international contemporary art world.”
Joel Wachs, President