WE’RE OPEN
VISION.
To share, showcase and promote different artistic expressions of emerging and aspiring artists as well as bridging established artists to the new generations and the community at large.
MISSION.
The mission of OPEN Center for the Arts is to provide a space where all artists can come together to share, showcase, refine, and develop their talents as well as support entrepreneurship opportunities in the arts while connecting their growth to the community.
HISTORY.
Among the sounds of dishes and drums in the corners of Mexican restaurants, a group of young artists gathered to talk about art and future exhibits. They dreamt about having their own place where art spilled over into the community and where artists could help one another grow. In 2004, Omar Magaña’s building became the backdrop for their movement. Expresiones Artisticas became the epicenter that grew out of those late-night bashes where artists shared hopes and dreams. It was a grassroots art collective where resident artists planned exhibits on the ground floor of 2214 S. Sacramento Ave. In 2008, the dream was put on hold after a fire took down the building. Today, a new group of artists, entrepreneurs, educators and community leaders have gathered to rebuild the dream with a new added component, to include the community at large in the growth.
WHO’S OPEN
J. Omar Magana
Executive Director & Founder, Board Member
Omar is the founder of OPEN Center for the Arts. He is a self-taught sculptor and entrepreneur who currently focuses on interior reclaimed furniture design... read more
Roy Villalobos
Media Director, Board Member
Roy is an internationally recognized graphic designer, painter, and muralist. He has held conferences and workshops and his works have been exhibited... read more
Lilly Torres
Operations Director, Board Member
Lilly brings strategic insight and direction in operations. She is currently the Operations Manager at the People’s Music School where she has remained for... read more
Alma Dominguez
Event Director, Board Member
Alma has more than 15 years of experience as an educator, promoter and writer in the creativity & artistic sectors. She is the founder and coordinator of... read more
Ivan Torres
Financial Director, Board Member
Ivan brings insight and strategic vision to the organization. He is currently the manager of Green Energies LLC which specializes in contract law... read more
WHAT’S OPEN
Villarte
EventsStand Up Comedy
CommunityRotary Mixer
CommunityMexican American Museum
CommunityLuchando Junto
CommunityImprov Showcase
CommunityFamily Movie Nights
EventsEROS
ExhibitsEncuentro de Jaraneros
WorkshopsCollege Workshop
WorkshopsClean & green
CommunityChicago Fire Festival
EventsAltares
EventsAllá en San Fernando
CommunityAnnual Exhibit
Exhibits
OPEN STATS
BE OPEN
SUPPORT US
SUPPORT US
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HEAR FROM US
HEAR FROM US
Send us your contact information so we can keep you informed on the latest happenings at OPEN.
PARTNER WITH US
PARTNER WITH US
We’d love to partner with you! Please send us some information and we’ll be in touch.