Arts & Culture

Message from Juelle Daley

Arts & Engagement Specialist

In 2026, Evanston is leaning into the arts, not as an accessory to economic development or an after-thought, but as a defining part of who we are and where we’re going.

Since stepping into this role in March 2025, I’ve been focused on listening first and not rushing to fast-track outcomes. I took the the time to understand what’s needed.

Through the Enjoy Evanston vision, the City is placing arts and culture at the center of its economic development strategy. To that end, we plan to support local artists, activate our spaces, and invite more people to experience art, even in unlikely places.

I also discovered that support for the Arts isn’t one-size-fits-all.

For some artists, it’s access to grants. For others, it’s building a strong digital presence, navigating taxes as a working artist, or simply having space to grow their practice. This year, we’ll be launching a series of artist-led workshops designed to meet those needs in real, practical ways.

So what will the Arts in Evanston look like?

It looks like a shift: it’s integrating existing programs into a more connected and intentional ecosystem. It's one that centers artists as a vital workforce, invests in creative projects across neighborhoods, and expands access to meaningful arts experiences throughout the city.

What’s clear is this: whatever we build will be grounded in experimentation, collaboration, and bridge-building across communities.  

This is just the beginning. We have other exciting arts initiatives in various stages of development so stay tuned for formal announcements!

So, what art thing are you doing this month?