[ ALt_ ]

Started as a collaboration between Jon Veal and Jordan Campbell, alt Space Chicago (abbreviated alt_) was created in response to community trauma and the belief that art could be used as a tool for healing. Campbell’s family history of entrepreneurship and Veal’s lifelong passion for art merged to positively disrupt their communities through tangible acts of service. Sharing the mutual motivators of family, community, change and servanthood, Veal and Campbell moved forward to create alt_.

The communities on the South and West sides of Chicago have a history of disadvantaged resources so they created ‘alt_ market.’ They created a functional art installation that transforms abandoned spaces into a communal free market where members of the community can give and take, thus creating a temporary communal shared economy. The market meets the needs of neighbors going through tough times and highlights the importance of sharing resources in food desserts where access to fresh foods is scarce. The work transforms these buildings into a safe space for the community to be able to share, ultimately acting as a symbolic catalyst for new opportunities.

Since its inception, alt_ has expanded into an artist-led, Chicago-based non-profit that is dedicated to revitalization through art and culture. alt_ provides an alternative to the dominant cultural narrative, manifesting new opportunities on the South and West Sides of Chicago.

We’ve been following the work of alt_ for years and find their approach to community support inspiring. After the sudden death of their cofounder Jon, alt_ has continued to pursue his vision making an artful and supportive impact. withlove collective is proud to support the efforts of alt_ and is using the Enhance People’s Lives fund in Q4 2023 to do so.