Heaven Gallery

Overview Heaven Gallery is a non-profit and multi-disciplinary arts space located in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood. Established in 1997 by David Dobie, it serves as a platform for emerging artists and musicians. The gallery is committed to encouraging diversity in its submissions through an open proposal process and does not charge submission or exhibition fees.

Mission and Activities Heaven Gallery's mission is to make art accessible to all community members. It achieves this by hosting free visual art exhibitions and pay-what-you-can music events. Additionally, the gallery organizes regular community events that promote public discourse through discussions and educational programs. It also offers internships to mentor young artists, teaching them how to run an art gallery while acquiring entrepreneurial skills.

In recent years, Heaven Gallery has expanded its educational initiatives by partnering with local organizations to teach art to children. The gallery hosts monthly exhibitions and various video and film programs, featuring a diverse range of art forms including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.

Financial Support and Operations Heaven Gallery is supported by grants from several foundations, including The Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, The MacArthur Funds for Arts and Culture at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, and The Illinois Arts Council. A significant portion of its revenue also comes from sales, notably through a small vintage shop located in the gallery.

Classification and Donations Heaven Gallery is classified under the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) as an Arts, Culture, and Humanities organization, specifically within the category of Arts Education. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible, contributing to its sustainability and mission.

History and Impact Since its inception, Heaven Gallery has established itself as a launching pad for numerous Chicago artists across various media. Its commitment to community engagement and public accessibility has made it a vital part of the local cultural scene. The gallery has featured works by artists such as Marie Kennedy, Doug Fogelson, and Jason Lazarus, among others, while also hosting musical performances by notable artists like Dark Dark Dark and Angel Olsen.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

Heaven Gallery collaborates with various organizations to enhance community involvement. For example, it has partnered with initiatives like the Kola Nut Collaborative to facilitate mutual aid and community organizing through events like the "Offers and Needs Market." These partnerships reflect its broader commitment to social justice and community building.