Chicago-based artist and designer Caitlin Wagner creates catalysts for connection and collective experience. Her practice combines organizing, community collaboration, and material making as an unconventional medium. She works with other local artists developing free public programming, coordinating community projects, and building sustainable systems of support – empowering collaborators to lead future initiatives that prioritize resource-sharing and skill-building.
 

As Exhibitions Manager at Comfort Station, Caitlin has been instrumental in rebuilding this multidisciplinary arts organization following its pandemic closure. Over the past four years, she has worked with the Exhibitions team to expand programming to include professional development workshops alongside the annual open call, strengthening the organization's foundation and community impact. Her material practice centers on textiles and fabrication using reclaimed materials and fibers, blurring boundaries between art object and utility.
 

Wagner balances intensive social engagement with solitary studio work, recognizing this rhythm as essential to sustainable creative labor and care work. Wary of burnout and extractive relationships, she practices open communication and knowledge-sharing. Her integrated approach – where making, organizing, and curating reinforce each other  – merges community care with tangible craft, creating a cohesive practice responsive to both personal boundaries and collective needs.

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