A Farewell to Chicago, but not a Good Bye!

Dear Friends:

The pandemic has been the big revealer. For some, it has inspired change and encouraged us to take leaps previously unimagined as we reassess our relationship to our happiness and well-being. For many of us, it has brought to light the most important relationship of all – the one we have with ourselves. How do we love? What do we fear? What is our relationship to change? What are we willing to do or let go of to thrive?

This month I prepare to make a geographical move from beloved Chicago back to the East Coast where I am from for the first time since graduating from and teaching at RISD. Come this fall, I will join Penn State University in the College of Arts and Architecture, as an Associate Dean of Access and Equity. Similar to my role at Columbia College Chicago, this is an inaugural position where I will work with new colleagues to contribute to curriculum, programs and policies that invite students, faculty and staff to bring their whole selves to their work to support a culture of belonging where everyone can potentially thrive. I am fortunate that this position comes with a faculty appointment where I can continue teaching and have support for my practice. The big consolation prize is that I will be a short drive away from family. I plan to be based in Philadelphia.

I have thrived in Chicago amongst a generous community of artists, scholars, curators students, colleagues, activists and organizers, neighbors, philanthropists and institutional leaders that have taught me so much about the value of creative life to lift us all up and make a difference, and what artists and other cultural producers can contribute to their communities and the city overall. I have taken pleasure in watching so many of you shine and have forged great collaborations and friendships that I hope to continue.

The decision was a tough one and the opportunity came somewhat unexpectantly. My transition will most likely be a bit piecemeal and I hope to connect with many Chicago folx before the big move.

For now, thank you Chicago for all the LOVE!

Now Available - EXPANSIONS

My essay appears in the volume from Expansions – A Response to How Will We Live Together?, a publication addressing the theme of the 17th Venice Architecture Biennale curated by Hakim Sarkis. Expansions is written by Hashim Sarkis and Ala Tannir.

Architectures of Space and Spirit: Expanding the Spatial Contract Within the White Cube

Selected quotes -

“The modern gallery foregrounds Western ideas of space as an intellectual and conceptual project, which often excludes other cultural and intra-phenomenological experiences.”

Chicago Monuments Project committee meeting to organize public forums.

Chicago Monuments Project