ArtFutura is an annual juried art exhibition and party that benefits the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Therapeutic Recreation Program.

Funds raised at the event are used to help fund RIC's art therapist position. 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 2009 exhibition ran from May 22 - June 4 at the Chicago Apparel Center Lobby (350 W. Mart Center Drive). Approximately 8,000 people traversed the space daily, with 24-hour corporate tenants, a design school and a 4-Star hotel atop the building.

The Closing Night Award Party on Thursday, June 4, included music by DJ Sheldon Knight, a tasting table by Goose island, wine, beer, passed hors d'oeuvres by Blue Plate, artwork for sale, and artists' awards were announced and granted. Mr. James Rondeau, Francis & Thomas Dittmer Curator of Contemporary Art at The Art Institute of Chicago graciously served as juror. He selected finalists and honorees from more than 180 submitting emerging and established artists.

Call for Artists: Thank you for your interest in ArtFutura 2009: Infinite Possibility. The Call for Artists is now closed. If you missed the opportunity to submit for this year, please check back in the fall for information on next year's exhibit.

Art Finalists: James Rondeau selected 72 works for the 2009 ArtFutura exhibit. Fifty percent of all art purchases benefitted RIC. Art sales for 2009 are now closed. You can view the catalog of 2009 art works by clicking here.

Sponsorships: Thank to all our generous ArtFutura 2009 sponsors for supporting Art Therapy at RIC. If you are interested in sponsoring the 2010 exhibit, please contact Bridget Vrba Krause at bvrba@ric.org.

For more information, please contact Bridget Vrba Krause at 312-238-1252 or bvrba@ric.org.

Congratulations to our 2009 honored artists!
Karla Hackenmiller - First Place
Margo Geddes - Second Place
Ingrid Marrero - Third Place
Jeremy Bolen - Honorable Mention
Aron Gent - Honorable Mention
Kevin G. Malella - Honorable Mention
Takeshi Moro - Honorable Mention
Richard Shipps - Honorable Mention