In recognition of its 70th anniversary, the Hyde Park Art Center is rediscovering its roots as an artist-run space with Artists Run Chicago—a showcase of Chicago's most noteworthy alternative venues that continue the DIY legacy. Like creative incubators, these transformed apartments, storefronts, and warehouses support and showcase unconventional work that tends to flip the finger at the confines of capital “A” art. (And thank God because sometimes the austere wine and cheese scene makes us want to break things.) In spite of spatial setbacks, shoestring budgets, and the day job juggle, these alternative galleries persevere. Unfortunately, some fold, yet others—like the HPAC—succeed. more ›

So, you think you can write? Prove it by entering The Parlor Reading Series’ second annual call for emerging writers. Now’s your chance to unleash your 3,000 to 5,000 word short work of fiction or non-fiction upon the world by submitting it via email by the end of today. more ›

Aw ... poor wittle wone-wee singleton has no romantical dinner plans tonite? Well, stop your whining and crying, Sadsack, and get out of the house to see some art: more ›

Happy Black History Month, everybody! If you have any special Black History Month events you'd like to share with us, be sure to send them our way at tips (at) chicagoist (dot) com. more ›

More art in store for y'all -- see Tuesday's Go Look! installment for additional choices (but don't get option paralysis): more ›

Russell Simmons and Green Lantern have put together the "Yes We Can" mixtape. Outtasite! Download it here. [donewaiting] more ›

We're ready for spring too, but with yet more cold weather on the horizon, perhaps it's time to hunker down with a cozy reading. more ›

Shake-ups and oustings continue at the Trib. The latest casualty: Tribune Interactive President Tim Landon. [Trib] more ›

Will the Wicker Park and Bucktown gallery scene become another West Loop, an explosion of art spaces on a few shabby-chic blocks? The Wicker Park and Bucktown Gallery Association hopes not. In this week’s Chicago Journal, Around the Coyote Gallery Director and WPBGA Founder Allison Stites talks about how she'd like to preserve the organic feel of the neighborhood art scene. And for the time being, they don’t have much to fear. The West Loop... more ›