Exploration at the Interface between Art and Science

The 803 Foundation was created to foster research and educational projects at the interface between the Arts and Sciences. The Foundation’s research activities focus on the use of imaging strategies (such as highly standardized digital photography and topographic body-mapping techniques) to better understand human anatomy and its genetic underpinnings. The insights gained are now helping to define a new concept of "anatomic predetermination”, to help predict the development of tumors, to better understand disease-related body shape changes, and to describe the anatomy of gender for the first time.

Based within a remarkable 109-year old residence at 803 West Hutchinson Street in Chicago, the property is currently without official historic landmark status.  Part of the Foundation’s overall mission is to preserve one of the country’s most historically intact residences by working toward formal legal and administrative protections. The home is an architectural gem of design and function and was built between 1909 and 1911 by Levant Richardson, whose patent for the ball bearing wheel modernized roller skating and led to a remarkable array of energy efficient devices.

The granite and copper structure was built for entertaining on a grand scale. With original fixtures and finishes nearly all intact, the existing large open spaces provide a perfect location for educational workshops, lectures, and fundraising events. In addition, the environment and ambiance support research and educational activities that explore cross-disciplinary projects bridging artistic and scientific realms.

The 803 Foundation is a recognized 501(c)(3) public charity.