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  • Black Feminist Poetics: From the Dirt to the Delta

    Pegasus at Chicago Dramatists 765 N. Aberdeen (May and Aberdeen), Chicago, Illinois

    This program explores the poetics inspired by From the Mississippi Delta. Saunte Harden-Tate, Nikki Patin, Mojdeh Stoakley and members of the Guild Complex will perform works written by Nina Simone, Beah Richards, Gwendolyn Brooks and other Black feminist poets and then perform their own pieces written as response, resulting in a poetic conversation about and […]

    Free
  • Featured

    TAKING ROOT: Poetry Event with the South Asia Institute

    South Asia Institute 1925 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

    In honor of AAPI Month, the South Asia Institute and the Guild Literary Complex bring you TAKING ROOT. This arts event features an exhibition tour, poetry, music, book signing, and more... Poetry reading moderated by Faisal Mohyuddin, with poets George Abraham, Czaerra Galicinao Ucol, Samina Hadi-Tabassum, and Saba Keramati. Music by Maninder Singh. Documentation from […]

    $5 – $10

  • Featured

    10th Annual BrooksDay

    South Shore Cultural Center 7059 S South Shore Dr., Chicago, Illinois

    This year marks the 10th anniversary of BrooksDay! Join the Guild Literary Complex as we honor the legacy of poet Gwendolyn Brooks and celebrate the launch of One Poem, One Chicago, which starts with a reissue of Brooks' 1987 poetry collection Blacks (Third World Press). One Poem, One Chicago is a collaboration of the Poetry […]

    Free

  • TransVengence | Aza Greenlee, Noa/Nomi Micaela Fields, and Ava Mirage Wanbli on June 20th

    My Buddy's (Upstairs) 4416 N Clark St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Join us for TransVengence with your host, Joss Barton! This month features readings by Aza Greenlee, Noa/Moni Micaela Fields, and Ava Mirage Wanbli. Doors open at 7pm upstairs at My Buddy's! Featuring: Noa Micaela (Nomi) Fields is an echodeviant* (*trans poets with hearing aids) in search of transversal wildness in her one and only captionless […]

    Free

  • A Night with Ana Castillo

    Asmus/Hilton Gallery (Morgan Arts Complex, Bridgeport) 3622 S. Morgan St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    In partnership with Hilton/Asmus Galleries, the Guild Complex will host a special reading with Ana Castillo from her new book, Doña Cleanwell Leaves Home. Joining her will be special guest, IL Poet Laureate Angela Jackson. The event will take place on Monday, June 26th, from 6:30pm - 8:30pm at the Hilton/Asmus Gallery, Bridgeport location (3622 […]

    Free

  • “…Advice at the beginning of the revolution” with Michael Warr + Tongo Eisen-Martin

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    As part of our Press Room series, join us for a reading and discussion with Bay Area authors, Michael Warr and Tongo Eisen-Martin (San Fransisco Poet Laureate) about their work, the nature of protest, and how the historical acts of revolution during the heyday of the Black Power Movement in the Bay Area have influenced […]

    Free

  • “Black Fire: This Time” | A Reading

    Blanc Gallery 4445 South King Drive, Chicago, Illinois

    Black Fire: This Time, Volume 1 from Willow Books (a division of Aquarius Press) celebrates the roots and legacy of the Black Arts Movement featuring the works of over 100 poets and writers. Published last spring, perfectly captures the spirit of sankofa, a word from the Akan people of Ghana that roughly translates to “it is […]

    Free

  • Palabra Pura: One Poet, One Poem

    La Bruquena Restaurant 2726 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    Palabra Pura is back! Come join us with a poem or your favorite text for a community reading in English and Spanish, featuring guest host Crystal Vance-Guerra! Have a drink, say hi to old friends, and enjoy some bilingual poetry. This event is free, open to the public, and anyone can bring a poem.

    Free

  • Exhibit B @ Comfort Station | Social Justice Festival

    Comfort Station/Logan Square Park 2579 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, Illinois

    Exhibit B, Comfort Station, and the Guild Literary Complex are coming together to host a free outdoor festival in the heart of Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood. This special event will feature live music, poetry, free food, and a book drive, along with non-profit organizations tabling to share the incredible work they're doing in and around […]

    Free

  • Exhibit B @ Printers Row Lit Fest

    Printers' Row Lit Fest - 731 S. Plymouth Ct. 731 S. Plymouth Ct., Chicago, Illinois

    Exhibit B will be back at Printers Row Lit Fest! Faylita Hicks, Daniel Borzutzky, Nakiyah T.M. Jordan, and Exhibit B's very own, James Stewart III, are going to bring it! Catch them on Saturday, Sept. 9th, 4 PM at 731 S. Plymouth Ct.

    Free

  • Going the Distance: A Printers Row Reading with Ana Castillo + Reginald Gibbons

    Printers' Row Lit Fest - Feinberg Foundation Stage Chicago, Illinois

    Two writers—Ana Castillo, Doña Cleanwell Leaves Home and Reginald Gibbons, Sweetbitter—read from their latest work and talk about finding longevity in creative writing and the arts. Conversation moderated by Richard Guzman. Presented by Hypertext and The Guild Complex. 1:00 PM @ Feinberg Foundation Stage, Printers Row Lit Fest

    Free

  • A Literary Mash Up at Printers Row Lit Fest

    Come to the Printers Row Lit Fest's Center Stage for a joint reading presented by the Guild Literary Complex, Hypertext, and RHINO Poetry, with two readers each from Chicago's three long-standing literary institutions. Featured readers include:Cheryl Dyer (emerging writer)Nazifa Islam (Forlorn Light – Shearsman 2021)Sahar Mustafah (The Beauty of Your Face – W.W. Norton & […]

    Free

  • 2023 | Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Awards

    The Den Theatre 1331 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL

    Congratulations to the 2023 GBOMA winner: Myron Stokes! Come out and support the 2023 finalists for the Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Awards (GBOMA) as they perform their works live! GET TICKETS NOW 2023 finalists: Fadia AntabliJóse Bono RovirosaJanet BurrowayMars CaultonMorgan EklundKat FreezeAllison JosephKhloe KammerzellChuck KramerRobert LawrenceIrene MartinezMiguel MarzanaDavid MathewsFrancesca MoroneyHilesh PatelTimothy David ReyMyron StokesKira TuckerCrystal Vance […]

    $12

  • Generative Multilogue: Artful Protest

    South Asia Institute 1925 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

    Creative Iranian Women Digital Projection and Immersive Experience Invited Artists: Shaghayegh Mohajeri, Alemeh Bagherian, Hedie Javani, Saba Soleimani, Pouye Peyman, Sara Rahanjam Opening reception with musical performances and poetry recitation.

    $55

  • Lit & Luz Festival | 10th Anniversary Celebration

    This year’s theme is “TEN,” –celebrating 10 years of remarkable programming. This October, join us for more than a dozen bilingual programs throughout Chicago. This year’s festival kicks off on October 13th with an exhibition of work from Lit & Luz Collaboration Cohort artists from the past decade at Chicago Art Department and closes on […]

    Free

  • 30th Anniversary of Always Running with Luis Rodriguez

    Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois

    In collaboration with the Chicago History Museum, The Guild Complex celebrates 30 years of AlwaysRunning—the debut novel by author, poet, and founder/publisher of Tia Chucha Press, Luis J Rodriguez. There will be some special performances followed by a special reading with Luis Rodriguez along with an interview and discussion with Hector Chavez, PhD, Loyola University […]

  • Chile—50 Years of Protest and Change: A Reading and Discussion with Kathleen Osberger

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Author, Kathy Osberger will read from her new book I Surrender: A Memoir of Chile's Dictatorship, 1975, which chronicles her experiences in Chile two years into the violent authoritarian reign of General Pinochet. A discussion, with the author, on the political situation in Chile today will immediately follow featuring Mario Venegas (human rights activist and torture survivor from […]

  • Exhibit B | A Literary Variety Show

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Exhibit B's November reading at Pilsen Community Books will feature poetry, prose, and a piano as authors Willie Lin, S.L. Wisenberg, and Michael Dean, will be joined by pianist Marissa Kerbel for a special evening. 

    Free

  • An Evening w/ Kathleen Rooney & Jeremy T. Wilson

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Join us for an evening with two Chicago novelists to celebrate the release of From Dust to Stardust by Kathleen Rooney and The Quail Who Wears the Shirt by Jeremy T. Wilson! Kathleen Rooney is a founding editor of Rose Metal Press, and a founding member of Poems While You Wait. Her latest poetry collection, Where Are […]

    Free

  • Palabra Pura: Marc Zimmerman Carlos Cumpian Book Launch + Open Mic

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    LACASA Chicago, Movimento Artístico Chicano (MARCH), 18th Street Casa de Cultura & Guild Literary Complex Invite you to Marc Zimmerman’s Pre-85th Birthday Book Launch of his most important Chicago Latino Publication on the rise of a literary movement: Mexican and Chicano Literature in Chicago: Transplanting Early Roots to the Barrios and Beyond. “Zimmerman a writer […]

    Free

  • Guild Complex Holiday Mixer

    Epiphany Center for the Arts 201 South Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, United States

    Join the Guild Complex for a holiday mixer on Thursday, December 14th (6-7:30pm) at the Epiphany Center for the Arts' Golden Hour! Featuring a special artist chat, live music by Bear Williams, happy hour food and beverages, and the first 50 guests get their first drink for free!

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: KC All Stars Open Mic hosted by Brandon “Amayzn” Nelson

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: Opening Reading with Patricia Smith, Roger Reeves, Dr. Taylor Byas, jason b. crawford, and Niki Herd

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: In Conversation with J. Howard Rosier

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: Reading with Brittany Rogers, Bernardo Wade, India Lena Gonzalez, and Kenyatta Rogers

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: Killing the Negative: Book Talk & Reading with Quraysh Ali Lansana, Moheb Soliman, and Joel Daniel

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • AWP | Poets for the People: Closing Reading with m. mick powell, Grayson Thompson, and Donika Kelly

    Black Archives Of Mid-America 1722 E 17th Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri

    In collaboration with the Guild Literary Complex, Cave Canem, and the BLK+BRWN Bookstore, Exhibit B is hosting a series of literary events, free and open to the public, at the Black Archives of Mid-America which will center Black artists and allies. These events complement the AWP conference. This program is made possible by the support […]

    Free

  • Exhibit B: Reading with Juan Martinez, Charif Shanahan, Helene Alchanzar, S Yarberry

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Exhibit B is back home from AWP and once again bringing the show to our favorite bookstore in the city, Pilsen Community Books! On Thursday, Feb. 29th, join us as we bring together another incredible lineup featuring Charif Shanahan, Helene Achanzar, S. Yarberry, and Juan Martinez!

    Free

  • Worlds End… Worlds Begin

    Steppenwolf 1700 Theatre 1700 N. Halsted St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Friday, 3/1: 8pm | Saturday, 3/2: 8pm An evening of multimedia performances hosted by spoken-word artist Kao Ra Zen that take you on a journey through worlds and words, dimensions and dances, multiverses and music. Featuring performances by:Spoken word poet, rapper, performance artist and director, Kao Ra ZenBelly dance/"raqs sharqi" troupe, Il Worood Il Beledi with choreography by Phaedra DarwishChicago Mask Ensemble led by Marianna BuchwaldDancer Allen […]

    $20

  • Artists Book House and StoryStudio present: The Future of Literary Stewardship

    Colvin House 5940 N Sheridan Rd., Chicago, Illinois

    Artists Book House And StoryStudio Chicago Invite You To A Special Panel: The Future Of Literary Stewardship. What is literary stewardship/literary community, and how is it currently practiced in Chicago? How do we as individuals, organizations, and communities intentionally engage in building spaces and opportunities for literary folks to learn, grow, create, feel accepted, mentor, be mentored, share, and succeed […]

    Free

  • Exhibit B ONLINE

    Join us on Thurs. March 28th, as Exhibit B will feature incredible performances from artists Anna Portnoy Brimmer, Summer J. Hart, and Flor Flores.

    Free

  • FLECHO Book Fair

    We are excited to announce, the Guild Complex will participate in FLECHO in Quibdo, Colombia! From March 20-24, members of the Guild Complex along with 4 talented and creative Afro-Latin writers will travel and participate in this four-city traveling book fair which will culminate in Quibdo, Columbia. Participating writers include Kianny Antigua (New Hampshire), Alan […]

  • Nikki Patin Book Release

    The Honeycomb Network 2659 W Division St., Chicago, Illinois

    Join us for the book release event for Nikki Patin's new memoir, Working on Me. The event will include a reading and discussion with Denise Ruiz, owner and founder of The Honeycomb Network; a book signing; DJ set with Duane Powell; and light refreshments. $10 general admission, $20 for admission + copy of the book […]

    $10 – $20

  • Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

    The new Chicago Literary Hall of Fame class of  Hamlin Garland, Eunice Tietjens, and E. Donald Two Rivers will be inducted at a ceremony featuring a lineup that includes William J. Bowe, Melissa Bradshaw, Carlos Cumpián, Jesse Raber, and Dorene Wiese. Two Rivers's daughter, Annabelle Broeffle, and Garland's great grandson, Christopher Harper, will be on hand to accept the CLHOF statues. A reception will follow the […]

    Free

  • National Poetry Month Event @ Blanc Gallery

    Blanc Gallery 4445 South King Drive, Chicago, Illinois

    For National Poetry Month, the Guild Complex offers a special program featuring the newly minted Indiana State poet Laureate Curtis Crisler, alongside the current Illinois Poet Laureate and the most prolific Miss Angela Jackson.   The program will also feature special performances from the Write It Down! Collective. BIOS: Curtis L. Crisler was born and raised […]

    Free

  • WORKSHOP | Walking the Middle Path: Using Hoodoo to Tell Your Story

    Green Line Performing Arts Center 329 E. Garfield Boulevard, Chicago, IL, United States

    If your goal is to get over that writer's block and finally tell your story--hoodoo can help! Participants will walk away with a basic understanding of how to read tarot, how to pull information from oracles, astrology, and herbs in relation to their creative writing project, and how to respectfully engage hoodoo practices when running […]

  • Spirits, Spirituality, & Craft | Reading & Panel

    Green Line Performing Arts Center 329 E. Garfield Boulevard, Chicago, IL, United States

    As writers, celebrating culture through our work is as easy as sitting across the table from grandma. That ancestral influence is undeniable, but for some it is more intentional. It can be the circulatory process that streams through the work that is produced. Whether baptized in holy water or animal sacrifice - Christianity, Voodun, Santeria […]

  • Elsewhere: An Elegy Book Release Event with Faisal Mohyuddin

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Join us for poetry and stories of the collective breath held by a grieving world and to celebrate Elsewhere: An Elegy with author Faisal Mohyuddin.  "Faisal Mohyuddin’s Elsewhere: An Elegy is a memory palace of rooms filled with riversongs and baited fishhooks, where longing transforms into birds. This is a moving collection which touches on faith, grief, and fatherhood. It is […]

    Free

  • Feria del Libro

    El español está vivito y coleando en Estados Unidos; incluso, el país ha escalado a la cuarta posición con mayor número de hispanohablantes en el mundo. Se habla ampliamente en el ámbito público y privado, y no solamente por la comunidad latina. Con más de 42 millones de hablantes, el español es el segundo idioma […]

  • Slam Diáspora @ Feria del Libro

    Ida Noyes Hall | University of Chicago 1212 E. 59th St., Chicago, Illinois

    ¡EN PERSONA! @ The Pub, Ida Noyes Hall (1212 E. 59th Street) 9pm Puertas AbrenComienza 9:30pm MCs: Crystal Vance y Luis Tubens Requisitos:Preparar 2 poemas de 3 minutos cada unoPoemas deben ser 75% en Español Más información sobre Feria del Libro

  • Poets (still) for Palestine: A Night of Art & Community with Exhibit B

    Co-Prosperity 3219 S Morgan St., Chicago, Illinois

    Inspired by the continued resilience of the Palestinian people and the rise of campus protests, Exhibit B and the Guild Literary Complex are hosting another fundraiser for the Palestine Children's Relief Fund. We were absolutely overwhelmed by the support for this event in early December and feel the continued need to do something tangible with […]

  • What Came After: An Evening of Poetry with Christopher Stewart and John McCarthy

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Christopher Stewart's latest book, What Came After is a poetic walk through grief, memory, and mental illness from a child perspective to adult understanding. It peers at life through the stain of poverty in the Midwest. In discussion with the author is John McCarthy, whose 2019 book, Scared Violent like Horses, offers a complementary perspective on childhood masculinity […]

  • American Writers Festival

    Harold Washington Library 400 S. State St., Chicago

    At the American Writers Festival, there’s more than just book talk. Get ready for fun, community-driven activities for visitors of all ages. There’s so much to explore, from book signings to arts & crafts to special photo ops and more! The American Writers Festival, co-presented by the American Writers Museum and Chicago Public Library, is an […]

    Free

  • A Celebration of AAPI Writers

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Join the Guild Complex, RHINO Poetry, Kundiman, and Luya Poetry for a celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander month with an evening of poetry readings from AAPI poets.  ***We ask that all in-person attendees wear masks in the event space during the program for the health and well-being of the speaker and other guests. We will have a reception afterwards with […]

  • Who Loves the Sun | Chicago Book Launch and Celebration

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Join author Fulla Abdul-Jabbar in conversation with Mika Yamamoto for a celebration of her new book, Who Loves the Sun, with performances from Samara Huggins and Sonnenzimmer.  Who Loves the Sun begins as a study of the scientific poster, in an attempt to understand the object and the people who make them. Eventually focus strays from this subject to explore how the […]

  • Exhibit B at Pilsen Community Books

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Fulla Abudul-Jabbar, Ignatius Valentine Aloysius, Tamara Mattews and Nat Holtzmann will be joining Exhibit B at Pilsen Community Books for an evening of readings and community.

  • Slam Diáspora Encuentro Nacional 2024: Mayo/Primera Ronda

    COMENZAMOS! Ciclo oficial de Slam Diaspora— 30 de Mayo, 8pm hora chicago ✨🔥✨ Registracion abierta a cualquier poeta de reside en territorio EEUU! http://bit.ly.com/mayoslam24 Slam Diaspora es un colectivo que busca unir a poetas de la diáspora latinoamericana con poetas en latinoamérica usando el slam como nuestro punto de encuentro. que viva la poesía viva!

  • Girl Work: Book Launch w/ Zefyr Lisowski

    Pilsen

    Join us for the book launch of Girl Work (Noemi, 2024) with author Zefyr Lisowski, featuring performances from Kemi Alabi, Donna "Dante" Marie Gary, and Robin Reid Drake, hosted by Alanis Zoë Castillo Caref.

    Free

  • Transvengence: Pride Edition

    Clash on Clark 4416 N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois

    June 2024: Transvengence, Pride Month – Turn Up! Edition Featuring Jack and Lynzo the Heartthrob, with your host, Joss Barton. Open mic starts at 7:30pm. Learn more about Transvengence here. Lynzo The Heartthrob is a born & bred Chicagoan; an exotic dancer with a background in ballet, modern, and African dance teachings. Emceeing/producing Black LGBTQIA […]

    Free

  • A Map of My Want | Book Launch and Celebration with Faylita Hicks

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    A Map of My Want follows a nonbinary femme on their long walk home from a rural county jail as they contemplate how threesomes, quantum mechanics, beaches and nature hikes led them to an epic journey of sexual liberation.An offspring of Audre Lorde’s seminal essay “Uses of the Erotic,” Hicks’s A Map of My Want follows a nonbinary […]

    Free – $25

  • Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Fuller Award: Patricia Smith

    The Poetry Foundation 61 W Superior St, Chicago, United States

    Co-presented with the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame, American Writers Museum, and Guild Literary Complex, the ceremony will present Chicago poet Patricia Smith with the Fuller Award for her lifetime contributions to literature. Chicago Poet Laureate avery r. young will lead a lineup of presenters that includes Nora Brooks Blakely, Reginald Gibbons, Poetry Out Loud National Champion Niveah Glover, Adrian Matejka,  Marc Smith, and Jamila Woods. Lynne […]

    Free

  • Palabra Pura: One Poet, One Poem

    La Bruquena Restaurant 2726 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    Palabra Pura presents ONE POET, ONE POEM  Join the Guild Literary Complex July 17th for our annual Palabra Pura: One Poet, One Poem @ La Bruquena! All poets are welcome to the stage to perform a poem, whether it be in English or Spanish, or both. See old friends and meet new ones, enjoy delicious […]

  • Self-Care as Resistance: Ekphrastic Poetry Reading @ Epiphany Center for the Arts

    Caring for ourselves helps us to be more present in the world. Becoming aware of those areas where we might need additional support and asking for help can be scary but, in the end, it is what makes us stronger. The Guild Complex presents five writers who words help tell their stories of finding strength while battling […]

  • Chicago House Music: Culture + Community

    Co-Prosperity 3219 S Morgan St., Chicago, Illinois

    Reading and panel discussion with book author, Marguerite L. Harrold along with Khari B, Discopoet, Founder of The Debauchery Ball and veteran House music DJ Michael Ikechukwu Ezebuku. Including a special highlights viewing from the PBS documentary, House Music: A Cultural Revolution with Barbara Allen, Director and Producer Marguerite L. Harrold is a Poet, Writer, […]

  • Exhibit B: The Poets Platform

    Co-Prosperity 3219 S Morgan St., Chicago, Illinois

    Exhibit B will be joined by artists using the Democratic Party platform as a prompt. We are proud to be part of DEMOCRAZY FEST going on from Aug 8-18th at Co-Prosperity with Lumpen Magazines! Ideally, community feedback would directly impact policy. In this moment where many folks feel either entirely removed from the political process […]

  • Ananda Lima & Daniel Borzutzky In Conversation

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    A special conversation and reading with award-winning authors Ananda Lima and Daniel Borzutzky about their latest releases, moderated by poet Alex Wells Shapiro.

  • Transvengence | September 2024

    Clash on Clark 4416 N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois

    September's Transvengence features Aza Greenlee with your host, Joss Barton. Doors open and open mic sign-up begins at 7pm. Aza Greenlee is a body artist and co-conspirator at No Nation Tangential Unspace Art Lab. This coalescence is one to galavant in dreamscapes, ancestral juke joints, chaturbate masturbation web temples, loose-tooth tanks, and The Heartspace. They […]

  • Printers Row Lit Fest: Exhibit B

    Printers Row Lit Festival Dearborn and Polk Streets, Chicago, United States

    Christian Aldana, Lindsay Hunter, Jessica Nirvana Ram, and Dan "Sully" Sullivan join Exhibit B for a special reading at the Midwest's largest literary festival, Printers' Row Lit Festival! Printers Row Lit Fest is a free event on the streets of South Dearborn, from Ida B. Wells to Polk Street in Chicago, IL. The literary festival […]

    Free

  • Printers Row Lit Fest | Annie Allen — Now: A Conversation

    Printers Row Lit Festival Dearborn and Polk Streets, Chicago, United States

    As its 75th anniversary approaches, Nora Brooks Blakely (Brooks Permissions) and Reginald Gibbons (Northwestern University) discuss the modern relevance and contemporary ideas from Gwendolyn Brooks' Pulitzer Prize-wining book Annie Allen. Program moderated by Adrian Matejka, Editor of Poetry magazine. Printers Row Lit Fest is a free event on the streets of South Dearborn, from Ida […]

    Free

  • Slam Diáspora En Vivo

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    6:30-- Doors open/Sign Up7:00-- Slam Starts8:30-- Open Mic9:00-- ¡ADIOS! ¡Abierto a poetas de todos estilos y edades!Desde quien apenas esta empezando a escribir, a quienes llevan décadas escribiendo-- todos están bienvenidos a participar.Sólo necesitas dos poemas (en español/spanglish) para el Slam o un poema/canción/relato etc en cualquier idioma para el Open Mic.Se puede registrar en […]

  • A Performance Happening 3 @ Alma Art & Interiors

    ALMA Art and Interiors 3636 S Iron St, Chicago, United States

    Join us for a special night of artistic brilliance with "A PERFORMANCE HAPPENING " at ALMA Art and Interiors. We are thrilled to host this event, bringing together an all-star lineup of dancers and musicians, surrounded by stunning visual art. About the Event Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you immerse yourself in a vibrant […]

  • CLHoF Fuller Award: Alex Kotlowitz

    Chopin Theatre 1543 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    Registration is now open. On September 24, Alex Kotlowitz will become the 17th recipient of the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame’s Fuller Award for his lifetime achievements. The ceremony will be free and open to the public, with a reception to follow. Ben Austen will lead a speaking lineup that includes Stuart Dybek, Julie Justicz, Meribah Knight, and Mary Rowland. The Chopin Theatre ceremony will highlight Kotlowitz's lasting […]

  • ECOS Pop-up Gallery Readings with Guild Literary Complex

    National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W 19th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    This event is part of ECOS: A Chicago Latine Poetry Festival, which celebrates Chicago's relationship with and influence on Latine poetry. Sponsored by the Poetry Foundation, the festival features free, bilingual Spanish and English programming. Sometimes a poem is the perfect accompaniment to visual art! Join poets from the Guild Literary Complex as they recite […]

  • GBOMA 30th Anniversary Celebration

    Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago, Illinois

    The Guild Complex will celebrate thirty years of the Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Awards (GBOMA), with performances from past winners along with a special celebration of the 75th anniversary of Gwendolyn Brooks' Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Annie Allen, at the Chicago History Museum in the Robert McCormick Auditorium. Reception at 6:00pm and 7:00pm event start. This […]

    Free

  • Luis J. Rodriguez Book Release

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Luís J. Rodriguez will be reading from his newest bilingual collection, Todos los caminos llevan a casa (All Roads Lead Home).  Also present will be Alfonso Vazquez, Founder of Chicanz sin Fronteras, who published Luis' book.  The night will be moderated by Luis Tubens and will include music by Jarochicanos & Friends, commentary from Jackie […]

  • Slam Diáspora (LIVE)

    La Bruquena Restaurant 2726 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    Open Mic + Featuring Eduardo Arocho More details to come

  • The Record Track: Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony + Community Jam

    The Record Track 2804 E 87th Street, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Come celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony of The Record Track, an immersive retail store & live-music venue offering immersive, hands-on music experiences for all! Don't miss out on this exciting event and become part of The Record Track community! Donate Your Used (but working) Instruments!Help us provide hands-on musical experiences for others. We are currently accepting […]

  • Juntando Orillas: escrituras afrolatinoamericanas. Una conversación sobreenajenada and Tidal Waters.

    Pilsen Arts & Community House 1637 W. 18th Street, Chicago, Illinois

    The authors Kianny Antigua and Velia Vidal will dialogue about her works with Andrea Change and Mary Hawley. This is a bilingual event in Spanish and English. “enajenada, de Kianny Antigua, es un poemario sobre la experiencia humana másvisceral (opresión, dolor, angustia, otredad, desesperanza, encuentro con lasombra y resurgimiento) representada desde la voz y el […]

  • Juntando Orillas: Bridging Afro-Diasporic Voices Through Literature

    Northwestern University, Crowe Hall 1132 1860 Campus Drive, Evanston, Illinois

    Building on a partnership between two cultural initiatives, this panel will discuss the tensions between distinction and community, collectivization and individuality, and the balance between pluralities and connections in cultural programming designed to foster encounters among Afro-diasporic identities.The Guild Literary Complex and Motete are grassroots organizations dedicated to the cultural rights of underrepresented communities in […]

  • Juntando Orillas: Documentary Pre-screening

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Pre-screening of the documentary “Juntando Orillas,” followed by a Q&A session with the director, producers, and protagonists.

  • Book Release: They Call You Back by Tim Hernandez

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Join us for a book presentation and celebration for They Call You Back (University of Arizona Press) by Tim Hernandez. A haunting, an obsession, a calling: Tim Z. Hernandez has been searching for people his whole life. Now, in this highly anticipated memoir, he takes us along on an investigative odyssey through personal and collective […]

  • Lit & Luz Literary Festival 2024

    The 2024 Chicago Lit & Luz Festival, Saturation/ Saturación, returns with a fantastic roster of writers and artists from the US and Mexico. The weeklong series of free events begins October 26th and concludes with the Live Magazine Show at Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago on November 2nd. Inspired by the media landscape of both […]

  • Roots and Flowers: Uruguayan Women Poets, Past and Present | Raíces y flores: Poetas uruguayas del pasado y del presente  

    Una celebración de la larga e importante tradición poética de las mujeres uruguayas. Las poetas uruguayas Silvia Goldman y Silvia Guerra compartirán su poesía y la poesía de sus madres y abuelas poéticas en una lectura bilingüe con las poetas y traductoras Mary Hawley y Jesse Lee Kercheval. A celebration of the long and important […]

  • Exhibit B @ PCB – Nov. ’24

    Pilsen Community Books 1102 W 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    ExB's last show of 2024! Sam Herschel Wein, Emily Anna Maciel Gonzalez, Sarah Peecher and Emilio Maldonado will be joining Exhibit B at Pilsen Community Books for an evening of readings and community. Artist Bios: Sarah Peecher is a poet living, working, and teaching undergraduate writing in Chicago. She's been a reader for Unwoven Literary Magazine, […]

  • ¡SLAM EN VIVO!

    18th Street Casa de Cultura 2057 W. 18th St., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    A la mitad de nuestra serie ¡SLAM EN VIVO! Todxs tenemos poemas, todxs tenemos algo que decir, compartalo en este espacio de juego, apego, y fuego 🔥 No importa que nunca hayas compartido tus versos, solo necesitas dos poemas para participar (all styles welcome!) Como siempre, tenemos un Juez de Honor increible: Carlos Cumpian 💥 […]

    Free

  • HIPPY HOLY DAZE 7

    Elastic Arts 3429 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Host: QUEEN ZENOBIA Music: THESSELONIOUS Special Dance Showcase: FIREBIRD DANCERSDEVIKA DHIRVIVIANA REYES Guest star performances: THE GRATESSILIS101JOSH TREEHYPNAGOGIC TELEGRAM Featured performances: PUGS ATOMZHOBBYISTGREENLIGHTS MUSICBLUE COLLAR ROCK STARSYURI BASHO LANE - PLANET BTBXKAO RA ZEN

    $15

  • Abstract illustration of colorful lines on a black background.

    Power Lines 25th Anniversary Celebration w/ Poetry Foundation

    The Poetry Foundation 61 W Superior St, Chicago, United States

    Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Tia Chucha Press anthology Power Lines, a democratic assemblage of Chicago’s slam poets and poets of letters at the dawn of the new millennium. In a blast from the past, local and notable contributors revisit their original poems from the anthology and offer new poems and insight 25years later. Featured poets […]

    Free

  • Power Lines 25th Anniversary Celebration: Contributors Reading @ Chopin Theatre

    Chopin Theatre 1543 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    « All Events Power Lines 25th Anniversary Celebration: Contributors Reading @ Chopin Theatre 05/24/2025 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CDT Chopin Theatre Add to calendar Google Calendar iCalendar Join the Guild Literary Complex for a special celebration of the Power Lines 25th anniversary! Featuring poetry performances by contributors of the anthology released by Tia […]

    Free

  • Cocktails & Conversation

    Epiphany Center for the Arts 201 South Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, United States

    « All Events Cocktails & Conversation 05/30/2025 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM CDT Epiphany Center for the Arts Eric Charles May Recently retired, Eric Charles May is an associate professor in the Creative Writing program at Columbia College Chicago and the author of the novel Bedrock Faith, the 2021 One Book, One Chicago selection […]

    $20 – $25

  • SAY THEIR NAMES Community Salon w/ NON:op

    Experimental Station 6100 S. Blackstone, Chicago, IL, United States

    Join us on June 6 at Experimental Station in Woodlawn as we remember Black Americans killed by police violence and honor the memory of Ronald Browne, lead researcher and one of the originators of the SAY THEIR NAMES project. Join us for food and drinks, a demonstration of the new and database, live art-making, and the presentation of the […]

    $30

  • BrooksDay 2025: Living Legacy – Tradition Meets Tomorrow

    National Public Housing Museum 919 South Ada Street, Chicago, Illinois

    Join us for an unforgettable celebration on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2pm as we honor the incredible legacy of Gwendolyn Brooks and the generations of Black female poets who continue her powerful tradition. Location: National Public Housing Museum919 S. Ada St., Chicago, Illinois 60607 The Living Legacy list shines a spotlight on the phenomenal […]

    Free

  • Transvengence Pride Month

    Podlasie Club 2918 N Central Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    TRANSVENGENCE VOL. 8: LIBERATION BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY Host: Joss Barton Performers: Dutchesz Gemini Hi Bitch! The gorgeous and gifted Dutchesz Gemini is a Chicago based drag and performance artist, DJ, and event host. Her nectareous and high drama presentations take inspiration from ballroom and the worldwide queer underground, with music selections informed by Chicago […]

    Free

  • Palabra Pura: One Poet, One Poem

    La Bruquena Restaurant 2726 W. Division, Chicago, IL, United States

    ¡Anímate! The Guild Literary Complex is happy to announce that our annual Palabra Pura: One Poet, One Poem tradition is coming this July. All poets are welcome to perform a poem, whether it be in English or Spanish, or both. See old friends and meet new ones, enjoy delicious Puerto Rican food and drinks, and listen to some […]

    Free

  • Fountain Square LitFest

    Fountain Square | 1601 Sherman Ave. | Evanston, IL Bookends & Beginnings and the Guild Literary Complex present an afternoon of literary celebration on Saturday, August 23rd, from 12-8pm. Immerse yourself in author readings, hands-on writing workshops, bookmaking, and live music in downtown Evanston. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, an avid reader, or simply looking […]

    Free

  • Transvengence Vol. 9: Queer Pop-up

    Podlasie Club 2918 N Central Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Join us after Printers Row Lit Fest at Podlasie Club for TRANSVENGENCE: VOL. 9! Our regular show this month will close off the literary weekend with special performances following an audience open mic. Host: Joss Barton Featured Artist: Joy Guidry Joy Guidry Joy Guidry is a bassoonist, versatile improviser, performance artist, and composer of experimental, daring […]

    Free
  • rainbow colors background thick stripes with black and white lettering- picture of Crystal Vance Guerra and info for Slam Diáspora

    ¡Slam Diáspora en Vivo!

    PACH 21 2141 W 21st St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    The first and only Spanish language slam in Chicago returns in-person. Poets/participants have a chance to win a free international trip to compete in the international slam. Hosted by Crystal Vance Guerra and Luis Tubens "Logan Lu"

    $5
  • "Women’s Writers Showcase promotional image featuring headshots of six women writers: Virginia Bell, Eiren Caffall, Marcy Rae Henry, J.S. Jones, Maud Lavin, Sahar Mustafah. Event details on the right: Tuesday, Sept 30th, 6:30PM CT at Haymarket House, 800 W. Buena."

    Women’s Writers Showcase

    Haymarket House 800 W. Buena Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    The Guild Complex and Haymarket Books feature six new books by six amazing, local self- identifying female authors, centering fiction, poetry and short stories about the magic of water, ancestral legacy, grief, longing and memory. A lineup not to be missed!

    $5

  • Alt text: Green promotional poster for the 31st Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Awards (GBOMA) Live. Features finalist names and event details for October 2 at 6:30 PM (doors at 6) at Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S. Ashland Ave, Chicago. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Finalists include Barbara Barrows Chirskira Caillouet Mars April Caulton Sylvia Ewing Lisa Farver Rocio Franco Gregorio Gomez Crystal Vance Guerra Wesley Frazier Keys Miguel Marzana Ciara Miller Hilesh Patel Sayeda Qader Sandra Santiago Samina Hadi-Tabassum Kara Rose Trojan

    GBOMA 2025

    Epiphany Center for the Arts 201 South Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, United States

    Come out and support the 2025 finalists for the Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Awards (GBOMA) as they perform their works live. 10/7, Epiphany Center for the Arts, 6:30 PM. $15/advance, $20/door.

    $15
  • rainbow colors background thick stripes with black and white lettering- picture of Crystal Vance Guerra and info for Slam Diáspora

    ¡Slam Diáspora en Vivo!

    Taqueria El Mezquite 1756 W 18th St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    The first and only Spanish language slam in Chicago returns in-person. Poets/participants have a chance to win a free international trip to compete in the international slam. Hosted by Crystal Vance Guerra and Luis Tubens "Logan Lu"

    $5

  • Culture is Our Weapon: Lucille Clifton and Sonia Sanchez, Good Women and Baddd

    Front Porch Arts Center 5851 W Madison St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Partnering with the HotHouse's Culture is Our Weapon series, on Sat Oct 18th, the Guild Complex will present a screening of the film from the Lannan Foundation: Writers Uncensored-Lucille Clifton and Sonia Sanchez, Good Women and Baddd. This will be immediately followed by a brief discussion led by author Dr. Tara Betts, from the DePaul University Department of Peace Studies, along with a reading featuring Keli Stewart, poet/writer,  and Angelique Zobitz.

    Free

  • Culture is Our Weapon: The Power of the Word – Amiri Baraka

    Front Porch Arts Center 5851 W Madison St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Partnering with the HotHouse's Culture is Our Weapon series, on Sun Oct 19th, Guild Complex will present a screening of the documentary, The Power of the Word featuring author/activist Amiri Baraka.  This will be immediately followed by a brief discussion and reading with Billy Tuggle, Antonio Foli and Kao Ra Zen.

  • flyer for Red Line anthology event, with the anthology cover of a red monster on the right and authors' photos on the left, red text of the information in the middle.

    Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories

    Experimental Station 6100 S. Blackstone (take Dorchester to 61st street then head east; free street and lot parking), Chicago, IL, United States

    Join us on Halloween weekend for a presentation of the new anthology by From Beyond Press, Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories. Contributors Jotham Austin II, Bendi Barrett, Tina Jenkins Bell, Priya Chand, Aleco Julius, Sahar Mustafah, and K.A. Roy join the Guild Literary Complex for a reading and signing at Experimental Station. About the Anthology The […]

    Free
  • flyer for Write That Down Show & Tell at Podlasie Club.

    Write That Down! Show & Tell

    Podlasie Club 2918 N Central Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Write That Down! invites you to our first "Show and Tell" presented by Chicago's Guild Literary Complex. SHOW a keepsake that's dear to you, a favorite bit of junk, or a cute knick knack; then TELL a story about your artifact and why it's important to you. The evening will begin with an open mic […]

    Free
  • orange, blue, green colors background thick stripes with black and white lettering- picture of Crystal Vance Guerra and info for Slam Diáspora en Vivo 2025

    ¡Slam Diáspora en Vivo!

    Taqueria El Mezquite 1756 W 18th St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    The first and only Spanish language slam in Chicago returns in-person! Participants have a chance to win a free trip to a Latin American country (TBD) to compete in the international slam. Hosted and curated by Crystal Vance Guerra and Luis Tubens "Logan Lu." Open to poets of all styles and ages! From anyone who […]

    $5

  • orange, blue, green colors background thick stripes with black and white lettering- picture of Crystal Vance Guerra and info for Slam Diáspora en Vivo 2025

    ¡Slam Diáspora en Vivo!

    Taqueria El Mezquite 1756 W 18th St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Last chance! Join us for the final Slam Diáspora of 2025 - the first and only Spanish language slam in Chicago. Participants have a chance to win a trip to a Latin American country (TBD) to compete in the international slam. Hosted and curated by Crystal Vance Guerra and Luis Tubens “Logan Lu.” Open to poets of all […]

    $5
  • Vintage Christmas card and painting for Transvengence Holiday Edition flyer

    Transvengence Vol. 10: Holiday Edition

    Podlasie Club 2918 N Central Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois

    Join us again at Podlasie Club for our recurring open mic/performance series, TRANSVENGENCE VOL. 10! Our regular show this month brings a special holiday twist with guest performances by Celeste, Noa Micaela Fields, and your hostess, Joss Barton. The show will follow a community open mic by audience members. Ále Campos (Celeste) Ále Campos aka […]

    Free