NEW EXPRESSIONS
NEW EXPRESSIONS
A free art exhibition for teens and adults
WHAT IS NEW EXPRESSIONS?
New Expressions is an art exhibition for teens and adults organized by Merlo Branch Library and Chicago Comics. We provide emerging artists a free tabling experience and opportunities to get advice and mentorship about making and selling their work. There is no admission fee for New Expressions! Save your money for the art.
WHEN, WHERE & HOW TO APPLY
WHEN & WHERE
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026 from
11AM - 4PM
Where: Third Space Chicago, 716 W Addison St.
2025's flyer was designed by Alex Antonijevic. 2026's flyer is forthcoming!
Photos for the website were taken by Savannah Henry at the 2023 festival.
2026 Teen Artist Flyer Application
Calling all teen artists: Apply to design the flyer for New Expressions!:
Each year we hire a teen to design the New Expressions festival flyer. 2026's flyer artist could be you!
If selected to design the New Expressions flyer, you will receive a $150 honorarium payment.
No prior experience is necessary - we are happy to be your first ever commission and client!
Visit: bit.ly/NETeenApp26 for details and to apply. The application is due by April 15.
2026 New Expressions Tabling Application
The 2026 New Expressions tabling application will open on May 1st! Stay tuned - follow us on instagram for updates!
Thank You to Our 2025 Tablers:
Akoimori: website, @akoimori on socials
Alexander Attea: @alexanderattea on socials
Alexi: online store, @toolusingmammalgirl on instagram
Alva: @alvzorr or @bad___egg on instagram
Amanda Matthews: website
Benjamin
BurntXast/: online store, @burntxast on instagram
Candice Conner: @secondhandawesomeness on instagram
Celine Alonzo: website
Charley Eaton
Danni Coutee: linktree
Darling Homebody: website
Emily Brown: @emnbr.art on instagram
Lauren: @art2lauren on instagram
Lily Tran
Mars Crochet Critters: @Marscrochetcritters on instagram and tiktok
Maya Ross: @art_underling on instagram
Molly Grace: @callmekitschy on tumblr
Nadia/One Eyed Superkid: website, @oneeyedsuperkid on instagram
Shaka Creations: instagram
slo_hart/Cameron: cara
Storm: @gailifean on instagram
Swahdreeznya Rosier: instagram
Teddy: instagram
Uninspired 4ever: @uninspired4ever on instagram
XEyedMutt: website, @xeyedmutt on socials
SAFER SPACES POLICY
New Expressions is a safe space and does not accept creations or actions that discriminate against or cause harm to others. Our event is co-organized by the Merlo Branch Library’s YOUmedia (teen space) and aims to create opportunities for emerging artists of all ages to exhibit and sell their art. We ask that all tablers and attendees adhere to the YOUmedia Code of Conduct, which states that we:
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Embody a culture of respect
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Are inclusive and non-violent
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Refrain from conduct that is disruptive, destructive and disrespectful
If you feel unsafe during New Expressions or experience any kind of harm in relation to the festival, please reach out to the organizers.
CONTACT
Merlo Branch Library, 644 W Belmont Ave
312-744-1139