CPS Lives is now:

Since its inception, Artists in Public Schools (formerly CPS Lives) has impacted 51,000 students and counting in 86 schools across 61 neighborhoods, partnering with over 80 artists!​

Now, as Artists in Public Schools, we’re amplifying the mission that we were founded on seven years ago: to provide expansive experiences for CPS students and professional artists in the city of Chicago. We envision a future that builds these inclusive, creative spaces in other cities as well.

The Chicago Public School (CPS) system is the nation’s fourth largest school district, serving over 325,000 students in 634 schools. Artist-founded in 2017, Artists in Public Schools – formerly CPS Lives – was created by photographer Suzette Bross to integrate artists and cultural producers into CPS through paid artist residencies.

Over the course of an Artists in Public Schools residency, CPS students and faculty are connected with professional artists, encouraged to explore their own creativity, and collaborate on meaningful artwork. Artwork produced during these residencies are reflective of and often highlight the resilience in each of these school communities.

Artists in Public Schools ultimately showcases these artworks – these stories – by exhibiting them at local community spaces, virtual and in-person gallery shows, and internationally renowned art fairs.