Gearing up for The Hashbrown on Saturday, March 19, we introduce our one of our final guest chefs, Chelsea Ross of Chicago Art Department. Spudnik is honored to have The Chicago Art Department, CAD seeks to serve the real-world needs of young artists seeking to establish their personal practice. Get your tickets to the 2016 Hashbrown Chili Cook-Off to see how well they do!
Organization: Chicago Art Department
Guest Chef: Chelsea Ross, Artist in Residence and Program Coordinator of the Chicago Art Department
SPC: Why/How did you get involved with this the Chicago Art Department?
Chelsea: After hanging out on the periphery of Chicago Art Department for years, then curating a couple shows, I finally applied for residency in 2013. CAD has served as a photo studio, community space, and a gallery for my first solo exhibition.
SPC: What is your role with your organization?
Chelsea: I am an artist-in-residence and Program Coordinator. I am also co-chairing our first large fundraising gala, Crystal Ball, that will take place on April 9. Everyone is invited!
SPC: Why do more people need to know and support this organization?
Chelsea: CAD has been a cornerstone of the Pilsen art community for over 10 years. CAD aims to support artists by exploring studio art, exhibition, and learning opportunities. With two galleries, a screen printing studio, a letter press, and artist studios, CAD serves the real-world needs of young artists seeking to establish their personal practice, and provides a breeding ground of creative collaboration and exploration.
SPC: If your organization had a spirit animal, what would it be?
Chelsea: A pit, shepherd, lab, wildcard mixed-breed dog. Because it’s the signature Chicago dog…. a little bit of everything and a lot of heart and soul.
SPC: Can we leak any details about what our guests can expect to find in your crockpot on March 19?
Chelsea: Even better than last year’s.
SPC: Final question: Write a tagline or brief description that could represent BOTH your organization and your chili?
Chelsea: Rich, complex, and layered. Will leave you wanting more.
Chelsea’s Favorites:
Favorite Chef: Abra Berens of Stock Cafe
Best Cookbook: No Knead Bread
Favorite Restaurant: Lula Cafe
Favorite Recipe: I don’t really cook from recipes. I have mouth visions and wing it from there.