Something colorful is happening at branches of the Chicago Public Library. It’s not just about reading — it’s about creating. Thanks to a vibrant collaboration between the CPL and the Art Institute of Chicago, The Artist’s Studio at the Library is turning libraries into community art spaces where families of all ages can explore, create and connect.
“We developed The Artist’s Studio as a way to bring special art activities to neighborhoods all around Chicago,” says Lori Frumkin, Senior Project Manager in the Department of Children’s Services & Family Engagement at CPL. “We love seeing library visitors of all ages take some time to get creative and make art.”
A museum experience in your local library
At select Chicago Public Library branches, kids can dive into painting, sculpting, collaging and more — no registration, no cost, just open-ended creative play. Some highlights include:
- Oil pastels
- Gallery boxes
- Flowery self-portraits
- Skull sketches
- Landscape drawing
- Mini Zen gardens
“We were inspired by the Art Institute’s Ryan Learning Center, where families can explore art making together,” Frumkin says. “Now, we’re bringing that same spirit into the neighborhoods.”
Since launching in 2024, the Artist’s Studio has grown from just a few locations to 16 branches across the city — each offering families a welcoming space to make art, explore materials and connect through creativity.
Plus, in summer 2025, every branch will host its own version of The Artist’s Studio — offering families across the city easy, free access to artistic experiences.
Summer spotlight: ‘Color Your World’
This season’s open studio project is called “Color Your World: Oil Pastel Drawing.” It’s designed to help kids and families experiment with color blending and landscape drawing, inspired by a painting by the artist Hale Woodruff.
Thanks to its decades-long partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago, CPL also offers:
- A free museum pass: With your library card and PIN code, you can secure family passes to the Art Institute, taking your art exploration a step further by viewing the Woodruff original painting in person.
- Special art spaces: “We share amazing resources from the institute with communities all around the city,” Frumkin says. “We co-create the art spaces and projects with carefully chosen materials.”
- Reading woven in: Each activity is thoughtfully paired with children’s books and educational tools to extend learning and inspire curiosity.
“Some branches will offer drop-in art making whenever the branch is open, and some will create special programs,” Frumkin adds. “We encourage families to check with their local branch or explore the events calendar online.”
The Artist’s Studio is creative fun for all ages
To discover the latest Artist’s Studio events near you, explore the library’s calendar.
“From toddlers to teens to adults, we invite everyone to make art,” Frumkin says. “It’s about creativity, connection and community.”
Or, the next time you pass your local library, just step inside. You might find a box of oil pastels, a blank sheet of paper and a little inspiration waiting for you.
This content is sponsored by Chicago Public Library. Learn more about The Artist’s Studio at the Library program and upcoming artistic events.
