UPDATE: The former St. Laurence Catholic Elementary School in Chicago has officially reopened as the Land School, an arts incubator designed to uplift artists and the community. This significant development took place on September 14, 2025, marking a transformative moment for the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood.
The reopening, led by acclaimed artist Theaster Gates, is part of his ongoing commitment to enhancing cultural spaces within under-resourced areas. Gates rang a historic bell from St. Laurence Church, which was demolished in 2014, to celebrate the return of this vital community resource. “This is a wonderful space for joy,” said Melody Waller, a former student, reflecting on the emotional significance of the school’s revival.
This $12 million project received a boost from the city’s Department of Planning and Development, which contributed $2.5 million through the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund. Commissioner Ciere Boatright emphasized the importance of investing in local neighborhoods, stating, “Our constituents deserve it, these buildings deserve it, and these amazing concepts deserve the investment.”
The Land School offers 40,000 square feet of creative space, previously shuttered since 2002. It will serve as a hub for artistic collaboration, hosting events and programs designed to nurture local talent. The day of the opening featured live performances from groups such as D-Composed, a chamber music collective dedicated to contemporary Black composers, and other local artists.
Gates expressed his initial reluctance to become a developer, saying, “I didn’t want to have to go over ‘there’ anymore,” referring to more affluent areas of the city. His passion was ignited when he learned that St. Laurence was to be demolished for a parking lot. “I realized I could make a difference,” he noted.
Community members, including long-time residents Talatha Haskins and Waller, shared their joy at the school’s revival. “I learned how to jump double Dutch here,” Waller reminisced, highlighting the personal connection many have to the space. Both women expressed eagerness to engage with the Land School’s programming and contribute to the revitalization efforts.
Theater and music performances are just the beginning as the Land School aims to foster a sense of belonging and creativity. Gates articulated a vision where community members become co-creators in the cultural landscape, stating, “If we all do our job, we will have fewer and fewer complaints about the things that are lacking in our neighborhoods.”
This reopening represents more than just the transformation of a building; it signifies a renewed hope for the community, offering a space where artistic practices can flourish and where local voices can be heard. As excitement builds, many are looking forward to what the Land School will bring to the Greater Grand Crossing area in the coming months.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Land School’s programs and events as they unfold. The community is encouraged to participate and make their voices heard in this vibrant new chapter.
