Though Michael Hoyt is a studio-trained artist and recipient of numerous visual arts fellowships, working in community to effect change has had a profound effect on the art he makes.
“Fine arts oftentimes fail to connect to people outside an ‘art’ audience, and I’ve never felt like that was enough.”
Whether it’s through the experience of working with homeless youth as Executive Director of Kulture Klub Collaborative for 11 years, or as the Youth Programs Manager at Pillsbury House, Mike has seen “art actually save a young person’s life. Once you see that art can do that, it really influences your methodology and why you make work as an artist.” Now, in his new role as the Cultural Community Liaison for Pillsbury House + Theatre’s Arts on Chicago project, Mike helps local artists and neighbors support each other in the struggle to build a better, more equitable, more creative community.
He is also the artist responsible for the Wish Well project on the corner of 35th and Chicago Avenue. You’re invited to stop by and place your best wishes in the well to be shared with the people who live and work in the area.
Your donation makes this unique community driven art experience possible.
photo of Mike Hoyt by Alan Berks