Cline Hedspeth is a professional culturalist. Mayor Brandon Johnson appointed her Commissioner of the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Events in March 2024. She was born and raised in Seattle.
Her mother was a Black Panther, and her grandmother was a founder of the Northwest African American Museum. She attended Dominican University in River Forest. She has been friends with Mayor Johnson for 20 years. Today, she lives in Hyde Park.
N’DIGO: Tell me about yourself and how you came to be Chicago’s Cultural Commissioner.
Cline Hedspeth: I moved to Chicago after college and never left. I have always wanted to live in Chicago. I read about the art scene there, and I was excited to attend the DuSable Museum, the South Side Art Center, the Art Institute, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Contemporary Art Museum. These institutions were terrific to me. Civically, meaningful events occurred in Chicago at a national level. As a history lover, Chicago was ground zero for learning about historic neighborhoods. Chicago is a vibrant city. People who are not from here don’t always recognize Chicago’s significance. I worked as a specialist at The Phillips Auction House, concentrating on visual arts, modern and contemporary art, and I also served as a fine arts appraiser.
N’DIGO: As the cultural czar of Chicago, what is your vision?
I am busy raising funds that go directly to individual artists, utilizing city funds, and seeking private donors to ensure direct support for the artists. This is my dream for all artists: musicians, visual artists, and writers. I aim to partner with established artists and collaborate with small organizations as a resource. Additionally, I want to enhance our interactions to promote our summer festivals. We received an additional $2.4 million budget to ensure the enhancement of our local festivals.
What can we expect for Chicago this summer?
We feature more food vendors and fireworks at the opening of the Taste of Chicago to create a lively celebration experience. There will be pop-up tastings in various neighborhoods. The Farmers’ Market will operate from May until October. We are inviting new communities to participate; Marquette Park will host a pop-up neighborhood TASTE, as will Pullman Park and Albany Park.
Chicago’s Gospel Fest this year will feature some of gospel music’s most inspirational artists. At Blue Fest, Mavis Staples headlines, with a tribute to B.B. King and a panel discussion with blues artists. There will be interactive activities and a tribute to Women in Blues. All of the festivals are free to the public.
Tell me about the art exhibits at the cultural center.
New ones are coming in, and that is exciting. We are working on a rotating exhibition at Midway Airport to showcase Chicago artists.
How do you choose these artists?
The visual art team curates the selections.
You recently added six new people to the advisory board, expanding it to 28. What do they advise you on?
They provide updates on what is happening in the city; they advise me and the mayor on events, offering cultural insights and perspectives.
What new things can we expect?
Increased funding directly for artists, more nationally recognized talent, fresh ideas, and streamlined processes (such as permits, upgraded technology, simplified grant applications, greater community.
What do you do in your spare time?
I read a lot and visit art shows. I enjoy authors from the 20s, 30s, and 40s, including Ernest Hemingway and Eastern European literature.
Who is your favorite artist?
Barry Horton, a local South Side artist, who was active in the 50s. He is a painter.
Where is your favorite restaurant?
Star of Siam.
What should people know about you that they don’t?
I am honored to serve as Commissioner of Cultural Affairs in Chicago, and I am committed to ensuring that cultural events and activities in Chicago continue to rise.
