“Art is my reason for being here,” Chicago artist Nicholas Holman said of his participation in Andersonville Art Weekend, which took place Sept. 25-27. “In my work, I’m more in tune with those parts of me that are true and authentic, I do what I want to do and I think that does pertain to my queer identity.”
Holman, who was a featured artist at the furniture store District, 5430 N. Clark St., chatted with people throughout the evening as they viewed his work, many of which were acrylic paintings of the Midwest with a touch of surrealistic elements.
Andersonville Art Weekend has been hosted by the local chamber of commerce annually for the past 22 years, drawing audiences from all over the country. More than 30 businesses participate each year; artists get a platform to share and sell work by partnering with business owners, who in turn gain exposure and new clients.
“Showing my work in Andersonville feels special because this is my direct community,” Holman said. “People only get to see the paintings on the wall, but there’s so much more that goes on. It’s just that moment where it all comes together, and I get to celebrate and feel good at how hard I’ve worked.”
He participated in Arts Weekend for the first time in 2025, also at District, shortly after he moved to the city. He was invited thanks to a staff member who had been following his work. Holman said he believes in being a “yes” man for any opportunity he gets to showcase his work.
District co-owner Chris Murphy said the Arts Weekend brings new clientele each year: “Some old, some new and it gives us a chance to work with the community, and feature a local artist.”
District has been in Andersonville for the past year and a half, but Murphy established his business 17 years prior to opening the Andersonville location.
“Andersonville really puts their community and equality at the forefront of everything they do.” Murphy said, “It feels like another Pride event, because it’s so welcoming of everyone. I feel safe running a business here.”
The weekend was conceived as a way to establish Andersonville as a full-fledged arts district, noted Laura Austin, executive director of the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce. “Through Arts Weekend, we provide a space for talented artists and business owners to have a platform and gain exposure by connecting and partnering for the event.”
Austin, who has worked with the Chamber since 2017, said the neighborhood’s LGBTQ+ residents “make up the personality of the neighborhood… They make it what it is.”
Andrew D’Arcy, an Andersonville resident, appreciated the opportunity to view the participating artists’ work. He said the weekend “makes it very approachable for people who aren’t used to the art scene. It’s very low pressure, and it’s a nice event to get people out and see what people are coming up with.”
D’Arcy resided in many Chicago neighborhoods prior to moving to Andersonville 10 years ago. D’Arcy described the area as “not your typical party scene neighborhood like Boystown. There are places for that atmosphere, yes, but it’s overall much more family friendly and it doesn’t feel so city-centered.”
Ariel Chavez, who has lived in Andersonville for three years, said, “I feel very comfortable being here. Being in a gay relationship, I don’t hesitate when I hold his hand walking down the street…I’m glad I moved here.”
