Proudly recognized by Chicago Public Schools as a best practice in its Cultivating Creativity: Arts Education Plan 2.0, the CAPE Artist/Researcher Model shows how the arts can be both a method and a medium for learning.
Composed from among the following attributes, CAPE Artist/Researchers are:
The Artist/Researcher Model
At CAPE, we believe artists, teachers, and students learn best when they explore together. The CAPE Artist/Researcher Model describes the different attributes present in being a learner (as a student, a teacher, and an artist alike).
As Artist/Researchers, we conduct investigations through art and collaboration in order to gain new understandings of the world. The model’s five qualities foster critical thinking, creativity, and resilience—skills that deepen both academic and personal growth.
Why It Matters
The Artist/Researcher Model equips students with the skills most needed in today’s world:
- Curiosity and critical thinking to approach problems from multiple perspectives.
- Collaboration to learn from peers and negotiate complex ideas.
- Creativity and innovation to generate new possibilities.
- Reflection and adaptability to grow through iteration.
These are not only the foundations of rigorous learning, but also the very qualities identified by the World Economic Forum as among the top skills for the future workforce.
Recognition & Impact
In May 2025, Chicago Public Schools unveiled Cultivating Creativity: CPS Arts Education Plan 2.0. CAPE’s Artist/Researcher Model was highlighted as a leading example of effective arts integration, demonstrating its impact on both instructional quality and student learning.
CAPE continues to collaborate with CPS and the Department of Arts Education to bring this vision into action—ensuring every student has access to high-quality, inquiry-driven arts learning.
Get Involved
CAPE’s Artist/Researcher Model thrives through collaboration—with educators, schools, artists, and community partners.
Educators & Artists: Explore how the Artist/Researcher model was created from years of reflection between CAPE partners.
Partners & Funders: Learn how to support arts integration in Chicago schools.
Everyone: Read CAPE’s Impact Stories and see the Artist/Researcher Model in action.
Together, we can cultivate creativity and inquiry for all students.
Support CAPE’s Mission!
Your gift will immediately go towards providing meaningful arts education partnerships for students, teachers and teaching artists in Chicago and West Chicago.
