CHICAT is rooted in the connection between art and technology. Throughout history, artists have relied on technology to push ideas forward. In fact, the word technology stems from the Greek word “techni” which means art. CHICAT’s programming, staffing, and organizational values stem from and build on the synergy between art and technology and seeks to leverage the power of both to ignite hope and strengthen communities.
Who We Are
Our Story
Opened in 2017, CHICAT is based on a successful model created in Pittsburgh by social entrepreneur and MacArthur Fellow, Bill Strickland. Strickland founded the Manchester Bidwell Corporation, a center dedicated to help adults-in-transition and youth in underserved communities realize their own genius through arts and technology. CHICAT is a part of the network of Manchester Bidwell’s National Center for Arts & Technology (NCAT).
Mission
The Chicago Center for Arts & Technology (CHICAT) educates, empowers, and elevates the talents of under-resourced and underserved individuals, transforming lives and catalyzing equitable, inclusive spaces for individuals to learn, work, and grow. CHICAT pursues it mission by providing an enriching learning environment with access to emerging technologies, artist-led classes, and standards-based vocational training to support each person’s pathway.
Values
– Environment shapes behavior
– Every human being is an asset and every life is valuable
– Design thinking solves human problems and expands human possibility
– Being engaged in the broader conversation matters
– Creativity fuels enterprise
