On July 3, a mass shooting outside Artis Restaurant & Lounge fundamentally altered the lives of many in Chicago. The incident occurred during an album release party for local rapper Mello Buckzz at the establishment, which is owned by married couple Brandi and Brittany Artis. Artis is known for being a POC-, women-, and queer-owned BYOB space dedicated to fostering a safe environment for all.
The shooting left four people dead and 14 others injured, prompting an overwhelming response from the community.
In the aftermath, the Artis owners announced the permanent closure of their restaurant via an Instagram post on July 15. They expressed their grief and the ongoing process of healing, stating, “We are still processing, still grieving, and still holding one another close. Thank you to everyone who reached out with love and support. Please continue to hold space for our staff, our families, the victims, and this entire community. We will not be defined by this violence, but we will never forget.”
Brandi and Brittany’s message further conveyed their sadness over the “rising pressure, coded policies, and attempted public persecution” faced by their establishment. They emphasized that Artis was more than just a business; it was a beacon of hope.
In a recent conversation with Windy City Times, Brandi and Brittany opened up about that harrowing night and their vision for the future.
When asked how they were feeling, Brandi stated, “I’m worse than sad—I’m devastated, I’m traumatized. We’re many things, to say the least.” Brittany added a sense of disbelief over the situation and the impact it would have on their lives moving forward.
Recalling that fateful night, Brandi indicated that they were actively involved in the event, with her coordinating logistics in the kitchen. The chilling moments unfolded quickly when she found herself frozen in fear upon hearing gunfire. “I was standing in the middle of the bar… I could see the bullets flying across the door,” she shared. Brittany, who stood nearby, was among the first to act as she witnessed the scene unfold.
“I heard the shots—but I wasn’t alarmed until I saw the bullets flying by. I said, ‘Brandi, get down,’” Brittany recounted, illustrating the chaotic moments before they fled to the basement. Their instinct was to ensure the safety of their staff as they sought refuge.
The couple highlighted the heroic measures taken by their staff in those critical moments. “The media did not say that my staff was [employing] life-saving measures and administering care,” Brandi revealed. Their team, including some military-trained staffers, worked swiftly to aid victims with tourniquets and first aid, all while emergency services had not yet arrived.
However, due to safety protocols, they were unable to return to assist further, which added to their feelings of helplessness. “They wanted us to stay safe downstairs because none of us knew what was happening at the time,” Brandi explained.
Addressing those who have made disparaging comments regarding the tragedy, Brandi firmly stated, “I would say, ‘Shame on you for saying anything like that.’” Brittany echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that societal violence is a broader issue that cannot be singularly attributed to any one business or event.
“This was an act of violence; you can’t point the finger at anything,” Brittany emphasized. She passionately noted that these tragedies occur across cities and regions, tied deeply to systemic issues in society rather than the nature of any given event.
As the couple processes their loss and trauma, their focus shifts toward healing and future endeavors. “We want to continue. We want to create, but we’re not exactly sure what that will look like,” Brandi shared. Recognizing the financial toll of the incident—approximately $100,000 lost—the couple aims to recalibrate and explore new avenues, including a return to catering and collaborations through pop-up events.
“I have not been back to the space and I don’t want to be there because that’s not the space we created—a space of love, creation and safety,” Brandi explained, sharing her sentiment of violation linked to the tragic events.
The couple’s GoFundMe page, titled “Stand with Artis: Aid for Brandi and Brittany,” was established by friends to assist them as they navigate this difficult transition. They highlighted how dedicated they were in building their business from the ground up amidst systemic challenges.
As they pivot toward new ventures, they anticipate launching a line of sauces and seasonings while also re-entering the catering scene. “We’re working on our seasonings being available soon… and we’ll be doing our catering and hosting pop-ups,” Brandi noted, encouraging community engagement through their social media channels.
Within their personal sentiments, the couple extended heartfelt messages to the victims’ families and the broader community as they reminisce about their mission to create a welcoming space.
Brittany articulated, “Our stance is that we tried to open a space that was open and welcoming, and we did just that. Unfortunately, it was taken advantage of.” She conveyed deep condolences to all who were impacted by the events of that night, stressing how precious life is and the significant loss that results from violence.
Brandi added, “We just send love, light and prayers to those who have been affected. We’re also thankful for all the support that we’ve received from everyone.”
With their future uncertain yet driven by a desire to forge ahead, the Artis couple remains committed to spreading positivity and creativity as they navigate their next steps. “We want to spread positivity,” Brittany said, and Brandi noted how honored she felt when a Black woman artist expressed interest in using their space before the tragedy.
While grappling with immense sorrow and the trauma of that July night, Brandi and Brittany Artis continue to seek resilience, support, and a pathway forward in their ongoing mission to uplift and nurture their community.
image source from：windycitytimes
