DePaul University has announced the permanent closure of the DePaul Art Museum (DPAM), effective June 30, 2025. University leadership cited the need for long-term financial sustainability and ongoing budget planning as the primary reasons for the decision. The closure follows a period of significant financial strain for the institution, which has already resulted in over 100 staff layoffs and cutbacks to other campus facilities like the Loop library.
The shuttering of the museum is a significant blow to the Chicago arts ecosystem, as DPAM has been a vital hub for underrepresented and local artists since its opening in 2011. While the university has not yet determined the fate of its permanent collection or the future use of the Lincoln Park building, the loss of this curated space removes a key resource for student engagement and community-focused contemporary art programming.