Creative Hubs
Chicago's neighborhood bars and taverns have long served as unofficial third spaces for artists — where isolation gives way to community. That need isn't unique to artists. Anyone navigating a world of home offices and Zoom calls knows the feeling. Art on Tap explores what draws us back to these spaces, and why that pull matters.
NOW POURING: Art on Tap's first films set in Chicago's neighborhood bars — where barstools double as studios, regulars become collaborators, and the city's creative pulse is never far from a cold draft or cocktail.
CORI O'CONNOR
Cori shares how Go Tavern & Liquors fosters a welcoming, supportive environment—filled with friendships and familiar faces—that fuels her creative process.
LAUREN FOIT
A collage pop-up at Solemn Oath's Still Life provides Lauren the opportunity to share her passion for art and community.
Short Pours
Bite-sized video vignettes produced in collaboration with Art City’s “Cash Only: An Ode to Dive Bars" show opening July 10, 2026.
LEXI ALVARADO
Seated bar side at Albany Park's Central Park Bar, Lexi describes her entry for Art City's show along with her views on creativity and community service.
JOE SIKORA
Figurative artist and Art City founder Joe Sikora is interviewed in this Short Pour along with Johnna Battaglia, general manager of Lincoln Park's J9 Wine Bar.
CORI O'CONNOR
Mixed media artist Cori O'Connor describes the relationship between her art and the supportive community at Logan Square's Go Tavern & Liquors.
CONTACT US
We're uncovering the intersection of draft pours and creative processes across Chicago's neighborhoods. Reach out to collaborate, suggest a tavern, or share your artistic journey.
Drop us an email at artontapchicago@gmail.com.