Jillian Gryzlak

is a maker of things

I am a Chicago-based maker rooted in experimentation with materials. Along with designing immersive installations, I build one of a kind costumes, work with ceramics and bring my material knowledge to theater designing props and puppets. Utilizing a multitude of materials, my process is often one of discovery and intuition. It is this same process of discovery that I bring to the classroom when working with youth as a Teaching Artist across Chicago leading visual arts residencies. 

Some theater collaborations include Redmoon, Dance Exchange, Illinois Caucus of Adolescent Health, Adventure Stage Chicago, The Gift Theatre, Elgin Community College, and The Goodman Theatre. I am part-time faculty at Loyola University Chicago in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts as Props Artisan where I also teach in their Teaching Artist minor program. 

My work with youth has stretched to all parts of the city with organizations including Urban Gateways, Redmoon’s Neighborhood Arts Program, Chicago Arts in Partnership in Education, and After School Matters. Some residencies have culminated in large scale permanent murals through special partnerships and grants through the Creative Schools Fund and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.