Chicago’s South Side School, Art in Motion, Moves Forward with Expansion

Written by Brittnay Polk

Chicago’s South Side is moving ahead with the expansion of Art in Motion, a school supported by founder and Chicago native rapper, Common who has continued to push for support and creative endeavors with Chicago’s youth. This initiative marks a significant milestone for the community, bringing enhanced artistic opportunities for students in grades 7-12.

As a recognized hub of creativity and inspiration for young individuals, its mission is to explore, create, and grow which has resonated with many aspiring artists in the area and has played a vital role in nurturing talents, providing a platform for students to express themselves through various art forms.

“I understand how valuable this could be and how valuable it is. When we were wanting to open this school and we were getting pushback, I was like, I got to fight through this Chicago politics because this is for these kids to have a better place, to have a better atmosphere, to have hope and for them to be inspired,” Common stated with ABC7 Chicago. 

As it continues to expand its programs and initiative aiming to ignite the students’ passion for artistic pursuits and an enrollment of 625 students, the new facility will offer a wider range of resources and opportunities, creating a vibrant and inclusive community where young artists can thrive and collaborate. Students will have the chance to explore their creativity, discover their potential, and build a brighter future for themselves.

This project underscores the importance of supporting the arts and nurturing talent, allowing our youth to thrive with resources and positive connections that will follow them throughout their life’s journey. The dedication to empowering the next generation of artists is commendable and sets an example for others to follow within and surrounding Chicago communities. 

The expansion is a testament to the power of transforming lives and communities. This is not just about expanding physical facilities but also about expanding possibilities for the youth on Chicago’s south side and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the artistic landscape of the city.