the Arts of Life Band

The Arts of Life Band makes danceable party music with a rock edge. It is an ongoing collaborative project between disabled and non-disabled artists in the Chicago area, based out of the Arts of Life community of artists. The Arts of Life is people with and without disabilities creating an artistic culture to realize our full potential.

The Arts of Life Band performs at local events and fundraisers, and does rock concerts at venues such as the Empty Bottle and the Double Door.

Artistic Director Ryan Shuquem has collaborated on artistic development with several performing groups including Mucca Pazza, the Parkas, and Circus Ridiculous. Local musicians join him from area favorites Lamajamal, Reddelicious, Loto Ball Show, and Mucca Pazza.

Ryan Shuquem says he is overjoyed by the response the Arts of Life band is getting. "This my favorite band to play with. The artists, local musicians involved, and the fans always have such a blast watching and being part of this experience. It's truly a pleasure, and the songs are fun, catchy, and they rock too."

The Arts of Life Band was recently featured on ABC7-news, performing songs from their debut, self-titled CD.