Traveler Tips: Understanding Art in Chicago

People tend to think of Chicago as the Windy City. However, Chicago has something more moving to offer the world than its strong winds; it has powerful art. A varied array of artistic exhibits is on display throughout Chicago all year round. Travelers to Chicago have the opportunity to enjoy art that moves them, makes them think, and enriches their spirits and minds. However, with so much art available it may be difficult to decipher where to begin. This Traveler's Guide to Art in Chicago offers a few suggestions based upon diversity. Please do be sure to explore more art while visiting Chicago.

The Chicago Arts District located in the area surrounding 18^th and South Halsted Streets has a story befitting art and the struggling artist image. It was once a rundown area filled with ramshackle buildings. Now, these buildings have been beautified to become artists' lofts and studios. Every second Friday of the month these artists from Chicago, America, and the world invite the public to view their unique and fascinating work. With over 30 galleries, the Chicago Arts District offers art to suit every taste. The variety of art forms exhibited is intriguing and ranges from the expected to the unexpected. The few diverse examples offered by this Traveler's Guide to Art in Chicago below provide just a tiny glimpse into the world of art awaiting travelers in the Chicago Arts District.

• Black and White Landscapes by Alexander Fedirko

• Acrylics on Wood by Larry Roberts

• Haitian Art by Mambo Marylin's

• Fluorescent Oil Paintings by Neo-Fauve

• Stained Glass and Oil Paintings by Robert Marshall

The Chicago Arts District is also surrounded by art, nature's art, for it rests amid beautiful gardens. Its annual Open House will be held from September 26-28, 2008.

SOFA (Sculpture Objects and Functional Art) Chicago - The International Expositions of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art located in Festival Hall on Navy Pier will be held from November 7-9, 2008. 100 international galleries will offer both traditional and modern decorative arts and design. Exhibitions will include contemporary glass art, Japanese ceramics, Scandinavian hollowware, furniture and wood are, American and European jewelry and more.

A featured exhibit not to be missed is the Venetian glass art of Lucio Bubacco. His work is created via the "lume" technique and inspired by Greek, Roman and Byzantine art. It has been praised by both museum curators and international collectors alike.

Adult admission to SOFA Chicago is $15 or $25 for a three-day pass. This Traveler's Guide to Art in Chicago would be remiss if it did not mention that this is a small price to pay for enlightenment.

The Art Institute of Chicago located at 111 South Michigan Avenue is both a museum and a school. It houses more than 5,000 years worth of art from worldwide cultures. Offering exquisite exhibits throughout the year, it allows travelers to enjoy art anytime they visit Chicago.

Some intriguing upcoming exhibitions are:

· Present to August 17, 2008 - Graphic Thought Facility: Resourceful Design, Gallery 24

· Present to September 21, 2008 - Benin Kings and Rituals Court Arts from Nigeria, Regenstein hall

· September 11-November 30, 2008 - Focus: Vincent Fecteau, New Work,Gallery139

Adult admission to The Art Institute of Chicago is $12 per person. On Thursday and Friday evenings from 5:00-9:00 p.m. admission is free.

This Traveler's Guide to Art in Chicago is just the tip of the paintbrush when it comes to all of the magnificent art Chicago has to offer. Unfortunately, it is impossible to see it all in one trip. Therefore, this Traveler's Guide has been designed to steer you toward places of diversity in order to absorb as much art as possible in a short period of time.

Sources:

The Chicago Arts District

SOFA Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago