Q: What is The 312 Collective?

A: The 312 Collective is a Chicago-based creative platform dedicated to connecting, uplifting, and showcasing local artists across visual arts, music, fashion, and more. Through curated events, digital directories, and collaborative projects, we’re building an ecosystem that centers culture, access, and community.

Q: Who runs The 312 Collective?

A: We’re a small, artist-led team of designers, curators, marketers, and visionaries who believe Chicago deserves more creative infrastructure. We're all working artists and students, building something we wished existed when we first started our academic journeys.

Q: How do I get featured in the artist directory?

A: Submit your work through our application form, under the Chicago Creative’s Directory. We review submissions on a rolling basis and prioritize artists who are active in their craft, based in or tied to Chicago, and align with our values of community and innovation.

Q: Does it cost anything to be listed?

A: Although it doesn’t cost anything to be listed, access to the form, artist directory, and Chicago Creative’s Community requires paying an membership fee of $15.

Q: What kinds of creatives do you feature?

A: Anyone pushing culture forward- photographers, graphic designers, musicians, stylists, filmmakers, writers, DJs, muralists, fashion designers, and more. If you create, there’s likely a space for you here.

Q: Why is there a $15/year membership fee?
A: The first month is completely free—so you can explore, connect, and see if the space aligns with your creative goals. After that, it’s just $15 for the entire year.

That small fee helps us cover the basics: keeping the website live, maintaining the artist directory, running events, and managing the Slack space that keeps our community connected. We chose a price point that’s accessible- because we believe in access over gatekeeping.

Your support helps us stay independent and rooted in Chicago’s creative scene.

Q: Does The 312 Collective host events?

A: Yes! We curate affordable events that spotlight emerging creatives and build genuine connections- from fashion shows to vendor opportunities and creative conversations.

Q: Can I collaborate with The 312 Collective?
A: For sure. Whether you’re an artist, venue, or brand aligned with our mission, we’re always open to collaboration. Hit us up via our contact form or DMs with your idea.

Q: How can I stay updated on upcoming events or drops?
A: Follow us on Instagram @the312collective and check out our website frequently to stay in the loop.

Q: How can I stay updated on upcoming events or drops?
A: Follow us on Instagram @the312collective and check out our website frequently to stay in the loop.

Q: I'm in the artist directory—can I share my upcoming event?

A: Yes! If you're part of our artist directory and want to highlight an event you're hosting or participating in- whether it's a show, pop-up, release, or anything that showcases your work- fill out the calendar submission form on our membership site.

We regularly feature community events on our site and socials to help amplify the talent within our network. Just make sure to submit all the details with enough lead time so we can support you properly.

Q: What is Slack?

A: Slack is a free messaging platform where our creative community connects, collaborates, and shares opportunities. Think of it like a group chat with channels for different industries, projects, and vibes.

Q: Why are y’all using Slack?

A: We wanted a space that feels more intentional than Instagram DMs and more organized than a group chat. Slack lets us break out into focused channels (like #resources, #collab-opps, and #events) while still keeping everything under one roof.

Q: Who can join the Slack?

A: If you’re a creative based in or connected to Chicago- whether you’re a student, working artist, or experimenting with your craft- you’re welcome. We do our best to keep it curated and community-first, so expect a short intake form before access. The only requirement is being a member in our program.

Q: How do I join the Slack?

A: Fill out the creative directory form, and we’ll send you an invite within a few days.

Q: What happens once I’m in?

A: You’ll get access to channels organized by discipline (like #music, #visual-art, #fashion), as well as spaces for freelance listings, critique, and event planning. It’s a low-pressure space to link up, share work, ask questions, or just lurk and learn.