ArtFutura is an annual juried art exhibition and party that benefits the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago’s Art Therapy program. The theme for the 2008 event is “DISCOVERY,” which reflects RIC’s commitment to making a difference in the world for people with disabilities through its premier research, education initiatives and patient care.

Funds raised at the event are used to support the RIC’s art therapy program and its art therapist. This person plays an invaluable role in rehabilitation of patients at the hospital and their overall rehabilitation experience. Art therapy is based on the belief that the creative process involved in the making of art is healing and life-enhancing. Through creating and talking about art and the creation process with an art therapist, patients can increase awareness of self, cope with symptoms, stress and traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of artistic creativity.

The 2008 exhibition ran from March 25 – April 3 at the Chicago Cultural Center. James Rondeau, Francis & Thomas Dittmer Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, will serve as juror and select finalists from submitting emerging and established artists.

The Closing Night Award Party on Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 – 9 p.m. included music by DJ Sheldon Knight, Grey Goose cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, artwork for sale, and artists’ awards will be announced and granted.

Sarah Crane, David Mordini & Brian Stang
ArtFutura 2008 Co-Chairs

Call for Artists:
Thank you for your interest in ArtFutura 2008. The submission process is
now closed. Please check back in Fall 2008 for more detail on the 2009
juried exhibit.

Purchase Art:
Fifty percent of art purchases benefited RIC. Art sales are no longer available. However, you can view a catalog of the artists’ work from the 2008 show.

Sponsorships:
Thank you to our generous corporate and individual sponsors for ArtFutura 2008. For more information on sponsorship opportunities for the 2009 event, please contact Bridget Vrba at 312-238-1252 or bvrba@ric.org.

Congratulations to our 2008 honored artists!
Daniel Balan - First Place
David Kendrick - Second Place
Ilisa Katz Rissman - Third Place
Michelle Bolinger - Honorable Mention
Jiwon Lee - Honorable Mention
Stephen G. Nyktas - Honorable Mention

CLICK HERE FOR EVENT PHOTOS FROM 2008 ARTFUTURA

CLICK HERE FOR EVENT PHOTOS FROM 2007 ARTFUTURA