Writing & Art Submissions Telling Your Stories of The Alley - Deadline 3/31/26

The Alley is turning 50 this year!  We are looking for your stories, poems, prose, drawings and art for a newspaper publication as Courtney + Nikki of Avondale Arts are teaming up with Matt McCarthy of Milwaukee Avenue Messenger to commemorate this anniversary of an institution.  Deadline to submit is March 31st.  Please share with those who grew up over on Clark and Belmont and beyond.  The newspaper will be available to launch at The Alley 50th Anniversary Block Party happening on Fletcher on June 14th.  Instructions for submission here.

Our next 4th Monday Monthly Meetup will take place March 23rd from 6:30-8 at the Belmont Project Space.  We will dive into the world of Zine-Making and Binding with local artist Brenda Quetzali of Baby Tomato Zine.  Whether you're a GenXer who used to buy zines at Tower Records, or a college student exploring this DIY world, come join the potluck, learn about the history, and create across generations and in collaboration with others.  FREE RSVP Required.

The anticipated debut of the Avondale Arts Market is happening Saturday, February 28th 11-5 at Parker Karlov Events, located at the corner of Parker and Karlov near Pulaski & Diversey in Belmont Gardens.  Explore the work of 35 plus artists and makers vending from Avondale and our friends in neighboring communities.  Enjoy live music performance and readings, face painting, community collaging, live portraiture, food pop-ups including empanadas from Believe Cafe, plus a glimpse at Avondale Arts 501(c)(3) planning at our community welcome table.  Your FREE RSVP on Eventbrite will help us adequately plan, plus see the full list of vendors on the invite!  This market is produced by Courtney Boatwright and Nikki Frisinger, Co-Founders of Avondale Arts Chicago and Sarah Plovanich of Parker Karlov Events.

This Monday, February 23rd, join us for a FREE artist-led grant writing workshop and potluck meal.  As we explore ways we can build up projects that support our Avondale community area and our city, learn from the experiences of artist Alec Rudek as he shares best practices and practical advice.  Even if you've never thought about applying for a grant, this will give you some pointers to support your practice further.  FREE RSVP Required.  Bring a potluck snack or dish if you'd like, but not obligated!