11/14/2023
My vision for opening The Martin in June of 2018 was to solve a problem in the event landscape of Chicago that I was experiencing as a producer. I wanted a safe, flexible and affordable storefront in which artists could thrive, be seen and understood and overall: create.
The deep sense of loss I felt in our sudden closure in March 2020 due to COVID-19 after almost two years of rising to that occasion was immense. To be given the opportunity to reopen in June of 2021, adjoined to Split-Rail which I had called a home away from home for years prior, was a dream I didn’t even know I had. The past two years have provided clarity, direction and inspiration for myself and our growing, changing and thriving community.
Today I announce the official, final close of The Martin - a space that bears my father’s name, has grown up with me and will forever be a pillar in my artistic career and exploration in Chicago. Our final exhibitions will have their final weekend with us December 8th - 10th.
Along with our closure announcement we are announcing the close of Split-Rail. I’ve been on the team at Split-Rail for six years and have been grateful for an endless amount of opportunity, growth and knowledge from the generous minds of so many - but especially Zoe and Michelle.
Our vibrant, q***r, events-driven cocktail lounge Dorothy will continue on and I still proudly serve as the Creative Director of the bar - getting to produce events at a rate, impact and variety I could have only dreamed of when I sought out my own business in 2018.
I have found great peace and pleasure in the Curatorial field and will continue to work in many spaces with my focus always being to uplift, encourage and elevate young, q***r, hungry, talented artists. You can follow me at for future calls, shows and more.
Our Hospitality Collective is called Drinking Policy and you can follow us to stay in the know on where you can find us next.
Thank you for believing in me, supporting my dream and loving The Martin right along with me.
🤍Whitney
