CHICAGO (WLS) — A former fire station in Chicago has been transformed into a lively environment that introduces children to art and its expression while offering a secure environment for their families in the area.
Art has found new life here as the Yollocalli fire station forges a fresh direction in the Little Village neighborhood, becoming the new headquarters for its dedicated arts outreach program.
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Vanessa Sanchez is the director of education for the well-known free community arts and cultural initiative.
“We truly grasp the culture,” Sanchez commented. “We truly grasp the significance of the arts, and that’s why we’re thrilled to offer this space to the community.”
This initiative is part of the National Museum of Mexican Art’s outreach efforts and continues to be an essential resource for the community, where accessibility can sometimes be a challenge.
In April 2024, the museum took ownership of the old firehouse at 24th and Whipple Street. This building underwent a multi-million dollar renovation incorporating students’ design ideas to restore the two-story, 8,600-square-foot structure, originally built in 1907.
The facility has been revitalized to house the museum’s long-standing, award-winning youth initiative program, part of the “Arte for All” campaign, which aims to unite communities from local neighborhoods to the nation.
“Art is a tool and so when a young person is able to not only understand that their voice is powerful, but that they can use that and support of their community,” said Lala Bolander, National Museum of Mexican Art associate director of community arts education.
The effort serves teens from 13 years old to young adults up to 24. Organizers hope the larger space will allow them to double the roughly 300 students they serve every year along with some paid participation through a partnership with the city’s after school matters program.
“We’re also excited some of our programs that we’re offsite now have a home here,” Sanchez said.
Yollocalli means house of heart, in the indigenous Mexican Nahuatl language. The arts reach program began in 1997 and has been house at the museum offering free arts and culture programming ranging from fine arts to digital media. The program also offers street art and radio journalism classes.
The Yollocalli Arts Center officially opens Friday at the new location.
The space is not only for students, but the community as well. The hope is that eventually be programs for younger kids and seniors alike.
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