DePaul Art Museum Faces Closure Opposition, Theaster Gates' Urban Vision, and Chicago Cultural Updates

On March 19, 2026, the advisory board of the DePaul Art Museum urged DePaul University to reconsider shutting the museum after forty years. The letter was signed by board chair Scott J. Hunter and members including artists Brendan Fernandes and Rachel L.S. Harper. Meanwhile, social practice artist Theaster Gates continues his community-focused urban projects on Chicago's South Side, repurposing vacant structures. In other news, the Museum of Contemporary Photography opened applications for its Snider Prize and Diane Dammeyer Fellowship, supporting emerging artists and human rights-focused work. Additionally, Chicago collector Bobby Tseitlin acquired Jerry Garcia's 'Tiger' guitar for nearly $12 million, and the Writers Theatre announced its 2026-27 season featuring new plays and adaptations.