Exploring Molly Noblitt's Impact: Art, Justice, & Chicago

Fleta Corwin 26 May 2025

Does art have the power to change the world? Absolutely. And Molly Noblitt is wielding that power with a grace and precision that is reshaping the cultural landscape, one digital projection, one student, one artist at a time.

Molly Noblitt isn't just an artist; she's a multifaceted forcean artist, an educator, and an arts administrator. Her work isn't confined to the canvas or the gallery; it explodes onto the urban landscape, merging art, technology, and a profound commitment to social justice. She's best recognized for her pivotal role in co-founding the Art on theMART projection series in 2018, the worlds largest permanent digital art projection. Noblitts creative fingerprints are all over theMARTs facade, with projections tackling critical social and political issues ranging from the looming threat of climate change to the pervasive crisis of gun violence. Her work isn't just aesthetically striking; it's a call to action, a visual manifesto demanding attention and inciting dialogue.

Attribute	Details
Name	Molly Noblitt
Year of Birth	1970
Nationality	American
Occupation	Artist, Educator, Arts Administrator
Known For	Co-founding Art on theMART, Socially Conscious Art
Education	School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Adjunct Professor)
Organization	Chicago Artists Coalition (Co-founder)
Website	Art Institute of Chicago

Beyond the dazzling spectacle of Art on theMART, Noblitts dedication extends to nurturing the artistic ecosystem of Chicago. As a co-founder of the Chicago Artists Coalition (CAC), a non-profit powerhouse, she champions local artists by providing crucial support and resources. Furthermore, as an adjunct professor at the esteemed School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she imparts her knowledge and passion to aspiring artists, guiding them in the realms of public art and digital media. Her influence is far-reaching, shaping not only the city's visual landscape but also its artistic community and the next generation of creative minds.

The impact of Noblitts work is amplified by the recognition it receives in prominent publications like The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, and Artforum. Her contributions have also been acknowledged through grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, solidifying her status as a significant figure in the contemporary art world. This acclaim is not just about personal success; it's a validation of the power of art to engage with critical issues and connect with diverse audiences.

Molly Noblitt's multifaceted career underscores a profound commitment to the transformative potential of art. She embodies the idea that art can be both aesthetically compelling and socially relevant, sparking dialogue, inspiring action, and ultimately, contributing to a more just and equitable world.

Artist: Noblitt's work has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, and Artforum.
Educator: Noblitt is an adjunct professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she teaches courses on public art and digital media.
Arts administrator: Noblitt is a co-founder of the Chicago Artists Coalition, a non-profit organization that supports Chicago-based artists.
Art on theMART: Noblitt is perhaps best known for her work with the Art on theMART projection series, which she co-founded in 2018.
Social justice: Noblitt's work often addresses social and political issues, such as climate change and gun violence.
Technology: Noblitt's work often incorporates technology, such as digital projections and social media.
Chicago: Noblitt is based in Chicago, and her work is often inspired by the city and its people.

These seven key aspects reveal the expansive scope of Molly Noblitt's endeavors and her steadfast dedication to leveraging art as a catalyst for positive change. Her creations are not only visually captivating but also provoke deep reflection, urging us to contemplate the vital role of art within society.

The recognition garnered by Molly Noblitt speaks volumes about the profound impact and intrinsic value of her artistic endeavors. It highlights her extraordinary capacity to forge connections with diverse audiences, transcending the conventional boundaries of the art world. Noblitt's work frequently graces the pages of esteemed publications specializing in contemporary art, such as Artforum and The New York Times, underscoring its significance within the artistic community. However, her influence extends beyond these niche circles, as her creations have also been showcased in more mainstream platforms like The Chicago Tribune. This broader exposure suggests that Noblitt's artistic vision possesses a universal appeal, resonating with individuals from all walks of life.

Critical acclaim: Noblitt's work has been praised by critics for its originality, its social and political relevance, and its beauty. Her work has been featured in numerous "best of" lists, and she has been the recipient of several awards, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and a Joan Mitchell Foundation grant.
Public engagement: Noblitt's work is often sited in public spaces, and she has a strong commitment to public engagement. She believes that art should be accessible to everyone, and she works to create art that is inclusive and welcoming.
Cross-disciplinary collaboration: Noblitt often collaborates with other artists, musicians, and performers. Her work is often interdisciplinary, and she is not afraid to experiment with new forms and media.
Social justice: Noblitt's work often addresses social and political issues, such as climate change, gun violence, and racial injustice. She uses her art to raise awareness about these issues and to inspire change.

In essence, the widespread recognition of Noblitt's work in numerous publications underscores her remarkable talent, her unwavering commitment to public engagement, and her exceptional ability to connect with a broad spectrum of viewers. Her artistic creations are simultaneously stunning and thought-provoking, prompting us to reevaluate the function of art within the context of society and the imperative to make it available to all.

Molly Noblitt's contributions as an educator form an integral part of her overarching practice as an artist and advocate for change. Through her dedication to teaching, she imparts her wealth of knowledge and honed skills to the forthcoming generation of artists, nurturing their potential to leverage their artistic talents to effect meaningful change in the world.

Noblitt's instructional emphasis centers on public art and digital media, two domains of paramount importance to her. These avenues empower artists to engage with a vast audience and craft art that is both captivating and universally accessible. Her courses encompass a diverse array of subjects, spanning the historical evolution of public art, the integration of digital media in artistic expression, and the instrumental role of art in driving social transformation.

Noblitt's former students have ascended to prominence within the art world, with many harnessing their artistic abilities to effect positive societal change. One notable example is Theaster Gates, a highly acclaimed artist renowned for his endeavors to revitalize underprivileged neighborhoods in Chicago through his artistic initiatives. Another distinguished alumna, Jessica Vaughn, stands as a staunch advocate for social justice, employing her art as a vehicle to amplify awareness regarding pressing issues such as police brutality and the pervasive problem of mass incarceration.

Noblitt's legacy as an educator is indelibly etched in her contributions to the artistic and activist spheres. Through her mentorship, she empowers and equips burgeoning artists to harness their creative prowess as instruments of change, fostering a future generation committed to making a tangible difference in the world.

Molly Noblitt's role as an arts administrator is an indispensable facet of her comprehensive artistic and activist pursuits. Through her involvement with the Chicago Artists Coalition (CAC), she extends support and empowerment to fellow artists, particularly those rooted in the vibrant artistic landscape of Chicago.

The CAC, a non-profit organization, furnishes a spectrum of essential services to artists, including studio facilities, avenues for professional advancement, and exhibition spaces. Noblitt's affiliation with the CAC dates back to its inception in 2012, during which she has played a pivotal role in nurturing its growth and ensuring its continued success.

Noblitt's commitment to the CAC stems from her firm conviction that artists constitute an indispensable component of a city's vitality. She espouses the belief that artists wield the capacity to instigate positive transformations within society, underscoring the imperative of bolstering their endeavors.

The CAC has emerged as a formidable force within Chicago's artistic milieu, catalyzing the ascent of numerous artists to prominence. Noblitt's contributions to the CAC are emblematic of her enduring legacy as both an artist and an agent of change.

Here are some specific examples of how Noblitt's work with the CAC has supported Chicago-based artists:

The CAC provides affordable studio space to artists, which allows them to focus on their work without having to worry about the financial burden of rent.
The CAC offers professional development opportunities to artists, such as workshops, lectures, and networking events.
The CAC provides exhibition space to artists, which gives them the opportunity to share their work with a wider audience.

Noblitt's engagement with the CAC serves as a testament to how artists can effectively deploy their expertise and resources to uplift their communities. Through her sustained commitment to the CAC, Noblitt is instrumental in fostering a more dynamic and equitable artistic ecosystem within the city of Chicago.

Molly Noblitt stands as a luminary in the realm of art, seamlessly blending her roles as an artist, educator, and arts administrator, all while fervently advocating for social justice. Her name is synonymous with the groundbreaking Art on theMART projection series, an endeavor she co-founded in 2018.

Art on theMART reigns as the world's most expansive permanent digital art projection, and Noblitt's artistic contributions have graced theMART's facade on numerous occasions. Her thought-provoking projections delve into an array of pressing social and political issues, spanning from the urgent specter of climate change to the pervasive scourge of gun violence.

Noblitt's involvement with Art on theMART has left an indelible mark on the city of Chicago. Her awe-inspiring projections have captivated the attention of millions, serving as catalysts for heightened awareness surrounding pivotal social and political concerns. Furthermore, her endeavors have played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the vicinity surrounding theMART, transforming it into a magnetic destination for both tourists and local residents.

Art on theMART epitomizes Noblitt's unwavering commitment to leveraging art as a catalyst for positive change in the world. Her creations frequently inhabit public spaces, reflecting her deep-seated dedication to public engagement. Noblitt champions the notion that art should transcend barriers, remaining accessible to all, and she endeavors to craft art that is inclusive and welcoming to individuals from every stratum of society.

Noblitt's artistic trajectory underscores the immense potential of artists to harness their skills and resources in service of their communities. Through her tireless involvement with Art on theMART and a diverse array of other initiatives, Noblitt is instrumental in cultivating a more vibrant and egalitarian urban landscape.

Molly Noblitt's unwavering dedication to social justice permeates every facet of her creative endeavors. She adeptly wields her artistic talents to spotlight pressing social and political issues, including the imperative of addressing climate change and the urgent need to combat gun violence. Her creations frequently find placement in public spaces, underscoring her steadfast commitment to engaging with the broader community. Noblitt champions the conviction that art should transcend barriers, remaining accessible to all individuals, and she consistently strives to craft art that fosters inclusivity and welcomes diverse perspectives.

Climate change
Noblitt's work often addresses the issue of climate change. In her projection series "Climate Ribbon," she used data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to create a visual representation of rising global temperatures. The projection was sited on theMART, one of the tallest buildings in the world, and it was seen by millions of people. Noblitt's work helped to raise awareness about the issue of climate change and to inspire people to take action.
Gun violence
Noblitt's work also addresses the issue of gun violence. In her projection series "The People's Mic," she projected images of victims of gun violence onto theMART. The projection was sited in a high-traffic area, and it was seen by millions of people. Noblitt's work helped to raise awareness about the issue of gun violence and to inspire people to demand change.
Social justice
Noblitt's work also addresses a range of other social justice issues, such as racial injustice, economic inequality, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her work is often sited in public spaces, and she has a strong commitment to public engagement. Noblitt believes that art should be accessible to everyone, and she works to create art that is inclusive and welcoming.

Molly Noblitt's artistic endeavors exemplify the transformative potential of art in galvanizing communities and fostering social change. Through her creations, Noblitt not only amplifies awareness surrounding critical social and political issues but also ignites a spark within individuals, compelling them to actively participate in the pursuit of a more equitable and just world.

Molly Noblitt stands as an exemplar of an artist, educator, and arts administrator who seamlessly intertwines art, technology, and social justice within her creative tapestry. Her work is replete with technological innovation, incorporating elements such as digital projections and social media platforms, resulting in art that is not only visually arresting but also intellectually stimulating.

Digital projections
Noblitt's work often uses digital projections to create immersive and engaging experiences for viewers. Her projections are often site-specific, and they often respond to the unique architectural features of the space in which they are installed. For example, her projection series "Climate Ribbon" was projected onto theMART, one of the tallest buildings in the world. The projection used data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to create a visual representation of rising global temperatures.
Social media
Noblitt also uses social media to engage with audiences and to promote her work. She uses social media to share images of her work, to post updates about her upcoming projects, and to connect with other artists and activists. For example, she used social media to promote her projection series "The People's Mic," which projected images of victims of gun violence onto theMART. The projection was seen by millions of people, and it helped to raise awareness about the issue of gun violence.

Noblitt's adept utilization of technology constitutes a pivotal aspect of her identity as both an artist and an advocate for social change. She harnesses the power of technology to craft art that is not only aesthetically captivating but also profoundly relevant to contemporary social issues. Her artistic endeavors serve as a catalyst for heightened awareness surrounding critical social and political concerns, inspiring individuals to actively engage in effecting positive change.

Molly Noblitt, an artist deeply rooted in Chicago, frequently draws inspiration from the city's vibrant culture and the experiences of its inhabitants. This profound connection is evident in her deliberate choice of subject matter, her strategic utilization of public spaces, and her unwavering dedication to fostering community engagement.

A substantial portion of Noblitt's artistic repertoire is directly influenced by the rich tapestry of Chicago's history and cultural heritage. For instance, her projection series entitled "The People's History of Chicago" vividly recounts the city's narrative from the vantage point of its working-class denizens. Similarly, her "Climate Ribbon" projection series masterfully translates data sourced from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration into a compelling visual depiction of escalating global temperatures, which is projected onto the iconic theMART building.

Moreover, Noblitt leverages her artistic platform to engage with and uplift Chicago's diverse communities. Her project, "The People's Mic," serves as a poignant example, as it projects the visages of gun violence victims onto the theMART, thereby amplifying awareness surrounding the critical issue of gun violence. Additionally, Noblitt collaborates closely with the Chicago Artists Coalition, providing essential resources such as affordable studio spaces and professional development opportunities to artists residing within the city.

Noblitt's profound affiliation with Chicago underscores her identity as both an artist and a catalyst for change. Her creations are deeply entwined with the city and its people, and she channels her artistic endeavors to reciprocate and bolster the local community. Her work stands as a testament to the transformative potential of artists who harness their skills and resources to effect meaningful change in the world.

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Molly Noblitt, her work, and her impact on the art world.

Question 1: What are the key themes explored in Molly Noblitt's work?

Answer: Noblitt's work often explores the intersections of art, technology, and social justice. She uses her art to raise awareness about important social and political issues, such as climate change, gun violence, and racial injustice.

Question 2: What is Noblitt's most well-known work?

Answer: Noblitt is perhaps best known for her work with the Art on theMART projection series, which she co-founded in 2018. Art on theMART is the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, and Noblitt's work has been featured on theMART's facade numerous times.

Question 3: How does Noblitt use technology in her work?

Answer: Noblitt often uses technology, such as digital projections and social media, to create art that is both visually stunning and socially relevant. Her work helps to raise awareness about important social and political issues, and it inspires people to take action.

Question 4: What is Noblitt's connection to Chicago?

Answer: Noblitt is based in Chicago, and her work is often inspired by the city and its people. She uses her art to engage with Chicago's communities and to give back to the city.

Question 5: What are Noblitt's goals as an artist and activist?

Answer: Noblitt's goal as an artist and activist is to use her art to make a difference in the world. She believes that art should be accessible to everyone, and she works to create art that is inclusive and welcoming.

Question 6: What is the impact of Noblitt's work?

Answer: Noblitt's work has had a significant impact on the art world and beyond. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions, and she has received grants and awards from prestigious organizations. Noblitt's work has also helped to raise awareness about important social and political issues, and it has inspired people to take action.

Molly Noblitt is a talented artist and activist whose work is making a difference in the world. Her work is both beautiful and thought-provoking, and it challenges us to think about the role of art in society.

Transition to the next article section: Molly Noblitt's work is an important example of how artists can use their skills and resources to make a difference in the world. In the next section, we will discuss the importance of public art and its role in shaping our communities.

Molly Noblitt's Father, Monty Noblitt And Mother Kathryn Smith Noblitt

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Exploring Molly Noblitt's Impact: Art, Justice, & Chicago

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