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Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
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TODAY

Thursday, March 28

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Slowdown

Self-Portrait in a Kanye Mirror @ MCA

Homeroom presents Self-Portrait in a Kanye Mirror," a session reflecting on Kanye West's life and art through a personal lens, tonight from 6 to 7pm at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Featured readers include Krista Franklin, Allison Glenn, and Lisa Yun Lee with Kevin Coval, J. Johari Palacio and Anthony Stepter; Fred Sasaki and Seth Vanek cohost. Free with museum admission.

Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop Up Shop

The Chicago Art Girls are hosting their annual holiday pop up shop at Alexander Graham Bell Elementary School (3730 N. Oakley Avenue) today from 11am to 5pm. More than 40 of the city's best artists and artisans will be selling a variety of items perfect for gift giving to others, or yourselves. They're also collecting donations for Common Pantry and hosting a raffle to give proceeds to them.

Screening: Almost There with Cinematography Q&A @ Siskel Theater

The Kartemquin Films/ITVS co-production Almost There is back by popular demand this weekend with a flurry of special events at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Today's 5:15pm screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Co-Director/Cinematographer Aaron Wickenden and Environmental Cinematographer David Schalliol, who will discuss their contrasting approaches to cinematography and how each balanced the other in the finished film. The event is co-sponsored by the Museum of Contemporary Photography.

Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop Up Shop

The Chicago Art Girls are hosting their annual holiday pop up shop at Alexander Graham Bell Elementary School (3730 N. Oakley Avenue) today and tomorrow from 11am to 5pm. More than 40 of the city's best artists and artisans will be selling a variety of items perfect for gift giving to others, or yourself. They're also collecting donations for Common Pantry and hosting a raffle to give proceeds to them.

One of a Kind Show @ Merchandise Mart

Today is the last day of the annual One of a Kind Show at the Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor. Hours today are 10am - 5pm. Tickets are $12 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Special ticket packages are also available online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital.

Gary Baseman Pop-Up @ Rotofugi

Cult artist Gary Baseman appears at Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 5 to 8pm for a special signing and pop-up exhibit. A variety of Baseman-designed toys will be available in addition to his art.

One of a Kind Show @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show runs through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor. Hours today are 10am - 7pm. Tickets are $12 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Special ticket packages are also available online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital.

One of a Kind Show @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show runs through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor. Hours today are 11am - 8pm. Tickets are $12 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Special ticket packages are also available online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital.

Live Comix @ Cards Against Humanity Theater

Interested in comics? How about performance? Local cartoonists will read aloud from their work accompanied by a projector at Cards Against Humanity Theater, 1917 N. Elston Ave. Come check out work by David Alvarado, Nate Beaty, Corinne Mucha, and Isabella Rotman tonight at 7pm. Event is free and BYOB! Fresh popcorn provided. RSVP on Facebook.

One of a Kind Show @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show opens today and runs through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor. Hours today are 11am - 8pm. Tickets are $12 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Special ticket packages are also available online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital.

Shop the Block on Chicago Avenue

Paperish Mess, 1955 W. Chicago Ave., will be banding together with three other shops, Ad Hoc, Study Hall, and Tarnish, today from noon to 7pm for a trunk show with local artists and special deals.

Holiday Art Sale @ SAIC

It's never too early to look for the perfect gift for your loved ones, and if you're not the type to start your shopping on Black Friday, you should definitely head on over to the School of Art Institute of Chicago, 112 S. Michigan Ave., for their annual holiday art sale. For the last 27 years, the school has provided this opportunity for their students to sell and share pieces of their work from their collection, which includes sculptures, photographs, knitwear, jewelry and paintings. Admission for the sale is free. The students' artwork varies in price range, and all proceeds are placed toward the school's education programs. The sale is open from 10am to 5pm today.

Third Fridays @ Zhou B Art Center

The Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St., Third Fridays open house tonight from 7 to 10pm. Check out the latest art exhibitions, explore the space, and enjoy music and refreshments. Free.

Holiday Art Sale @ SAIC

It's never too early to look for the perfect gift for your loved ones, and if you're not the type to start your shopping on Black Friday, you should definitely head on over to the School of Art Institute of Chicago, 112 S. Michigan Ave., for their annual holiday art sale. For the last 27 years, the school has provided this opportunity for their students to sell and share pieces of their work from their collection, which includes sculptures, photographs, knitwear, jewelry and paintings. Admission for the sale is free. The students' artwork varies in price range, and all proceeds are placed toward the school's education programs. The sale is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Holiday Art Sale @ SAIC

It's never too early to look for the perfect gift for your loved ones, and if you're not the type to start your shopping on Black Friday, you should definitely head on over to the School of Art Institute of Chicago, 112 S. Michigan Ave., for their annual holiday art sale. For the last 27 years, the school has provided this opportunity for their students to sell and share pieces of their work from their collection, which includes sculptures, photographs, knitwear, jewelry and paintings. Admission for the sale is free. The students' artwork varies in price range, and all proceeds are placed toward the school's education programs. The sale is open from 5 to 8pm tonight as a preview.

Poets Look at Paintings @ Chicago Cultural Center

The Poetry Center of Chicago hosts Poets Look at Paintings tonight at 6:00pm in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. Hear poems written by Chicago poets responding to visual art. Free!

OPEN TV @ Woman Made Gallery

Watch pilot TV shows with OPEN TV, a beta program that features stories by queer, trans, cis-women, and people of color, today from 2 to 5pm at Woman Made Gallery at 685 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free with refreshments.

Starshaped Press Annual Open House @ Starshaped Press

Starshaped Press is celebrating their 16th anniversary of making awesome letterpress art with a pumped up version of their Annual Open House. Snacks, drinks, prints and cards will be available to all. Everyone will have a chance to pull a print on the press too. Join the celebrations 7pm-10pm at 4636 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

The Chicago Arts District's monthly Second Fridays neighborhood-wide open house is tonight, centered around 18th and Halsted streets. Dozens of galleries and studios are open starting at around 6pm, with many artists selling work. Free.

"On Permanent Display" Opening Reception @ Efrain Lopez Gallery

Efrain Lopez Gallery will be presenting Ryan Coffey's solo exhibition,On Permanent Display today from 6-9pm. The exhibition will be held at 1620 W. Chicago Avenue, Suite 304. The show will be on view until December 27th.


Mark Pasnik and Chris Grimley Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House

This evening MAS Context presents Mark Pasnik and Chris Grimley, principals of the Boston-based over,under. The duo will lecture about The Heroic Project, an exhibition and book documenting mid-century Boston architecture. The lecture, part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks, will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.

"Picture the Cricket's Legs Apart" Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery

The group exhibition, "Picture the Cricket's Legs Apart", opens today from 5-7pm at Kavi Gupta Gallery. The show is located at 835 W. Washington Blvd.

Art on Ashland: East Village Art Walk

The East Village neighborhood welcomes its first art walk Art on Ashland today from 10am to 9pm. The event showcases local artists bringing you into select businesses and galleries along Ashland Avenue between Division and Chicago. Take the walk during the afternoon for a schedule of activities, music, open studios and artwork for sale.

"The Truth of Masks" Opening Reception @ Richard Gray Gallery

The Richard Gray Gallery is presenting the works of John Stezker in the exhibition, "The Truth of Masks" this evening from 6-8pm. The gallery is located at 875 N. Michigan Avenue on the 38th floor.

Shaping Clay, Shaping Life: Cairn Project Workshop @ Wicker Park Lutheran Church

From noon to 3pm today, Corinne Peterson will be leading a workshop, Shaping Clay, Shaping Life, though her Cairn Project. In the workshop you will be guided to make a clay "rock" that represents a painful history and a porcelain piece which represents light and hope. Each cairn will then be exhibited at selected locations. Each workshop costs $55 and is located at 1500 N. Hoyne.

High Concept Labs Halloween Open House

High Concept Labs, 2233 S. Throop St., hosts a Halloween Open House from 8:30pm to midnight. Check out art installations, film screenings and special performances throughout the night, participate in a costume contest, get your palm or tarot read, get silly in the photo booth, and enjoy music, food and drink. Admission is $10 General (includes one drink ticket), $25 Special (includes three drink tickets) or $50 VIP (includes open bar, 7:30pm VIP reception, and two future HCL performance tickets).

Tele-novela HIGHLIGHTS Watching Party @ Mana Contemporary

From 2 to 4pm today, a screening of Tele-novela HIGHLIGHTS Watching Party will be held in the UIC space at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., 5th floor. The series will include some work from the ACRE TV program. Free.

The Halloween Gathering VIP After Party @ The Plaza

The Plaza (11 N. Michigan Ave.) presents the Halloween Gathering After-Party from 8pm-11pm after The Halloween Gathering at Grant Park. As The Plaza's last event for the season, make the most of the opportunity to be outside, enjoy live music, food, drinks, and interactive arts installations (by the artist George Berlin). Tickets are $125 and can be bought online.

The View From My Summer Home In Space @ saki

Chicago-based artist Max Clarke will reveal his new art work, The View From My Summer Home at saki, 3716 W. Fullerton Ave. The free event, which runs from 6 to 9 p.m., will feature live music performances from Clarke's band The Cut Worms along with duo Wet Wallet.

"Nostalgia" Opening Reception @ SHoP

Ryan Chambers will be presenting 15 works of art at the Southside Hub of Production (SHoP) tonight from 6 to 9pm. The exhibition will feature memories and content from the artists children in the form of Digital Minimalism. Refreshments and '90s music will be provided; free, donations accepted. SHoP is located at 1448 E. 57th St.

"What We Don't Know" Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery

Anaïs Daly and Andrew Barco will be presented in the two person exhibition, "What We Don't Know" at Heaven Gallery this evening from 7-11pm. The exhibition space is located at 1550 N Milwaukee Ave, Fl 2nd.

Nina Rappaport Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House

This evening MAS Context presents Nina Rappaport in a conversation about her traveling exhibition and book, Vertical Urban Factory. The lecture, part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks, will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.

Destination Devon: Art Walk @ Edgebrook

To celebrate Chicago Artists Month, Edgebrook at Devon & Central hosts an Art Walk from 2pm to 5pm today where you can meet artists, enjoy their work, and partake in refreshments. Tickets are available online for a suggested donation of $10. Come out and support local artists!

Tony Rabit Opening @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., hosts an opening reception for its current show, Garden Party by Tony Rabit, tonight from 7 to 10pm.

"Political Clay" Opening Reception @ The Bridgeport Art Center

The Bridgeport Art Center is featuring the juried exhibition, Political Clay, tonight from 6pm-9pm. The show will take place in the Ceramic Center in the BAC located on 1200 W. 35th St.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 13th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 9-11 throughout the neighborhood, showcasing the work of local artists and designers. Today's activities begin at 10am and include art workshops, performances and a self-guided tour of exhibitions at dozens of local businesses and galleries. Free.

"Heavy Cream" Opening @ Rational Park

Tonight from 6 to 10pm, Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave., hosts an opening reception for Heavy Cream, an exhibition of new work by Julian Baker, Mary Charlene, Zach Hobbs, Marieke McClendon, Shelby Rothenhöfer and Johnny Sampson.

Chicago Arts District Open House

The Chicago Arts District hosts its 45th annual Open House Friday night and today. Pick up a map at 1821 S. Halsted St. and go on a self-guided tour of more than 30 artist studios and galleries. The open house runs from 11am to 7pm today. Free.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 13th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 9-11 throughout the neighborhood, showcasing the work of local artists and designers. Today's activities begin at 10am and include art workshops, performances and a self-guided tour of exhibitions at dozens of local businesses and galleries. Free.

Chicago Arts District Open House

The Chicago Arts District hosts its 45th annual Open House tonight and Saturday. Pick up a map at 1821 S. Halsted St. and go on a self-guided tour of more than 30 artist studios and galleries. The open house runs from 6 to 10pm tonight. Free.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 13th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 9-11 throughout the neighborhood, showcasing the work of local artists and designers. The event kicks off tonight at 6pm with Night of 100 pARTies, featuring opening receptions at dozens of local businesses and galleries. Free.

"Memories From the Future" Closing Reception @ Josef Gilmer Gallery

The Josef Glimer Gallery is hosting a closing reception for Lee Tracy's exhibition, "Memories from the Future". The gallery is located at 207 W. Superior and the reception will begin at 7pm.

Hermant/Butler Opening Reception @ The Franklin

The Franklin will be featuring, Hermant/Butler, this evening from 6-9PM. The exhibition includes a two person show by artists, Emily Hermant and Ben Butler. The Franklin is located at 3528 W. Fulton Blvd.

Prime-Time Vibes @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., hosts Prime-Time Vibes tonight from 7 to 11pm. The event is a collaboration with Land and Sea Dept. and features food from Parson's, Cherry Circle Room and Longman & Eagle, as well as live performances by Dan Deacon; Ryley Walker; and Elliot Bergman, Quin Kirchner and Erik Hall. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door SOLD OUT.

Now You See It, Now You Don't @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The Flat Iron Arts Building is hosting their 6th annual exhibition, Now You See It, Now You Don't at 1579 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The show will feature more than 30 artists from 6-10pm. $5 suggested donation.

Cornelia Arts Open House

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., hosts its quarterly open house tonight from 6 to 9pm. Explore two floors of artist studios, listen to live music and enjoy food from the Pierogi Street food truck outside. Free admission.

Button-O-Matic Release Party

Busy Beaver Button Co. is celebrating the release of its latest Button-O-Matic collection with a release party and art supply drive at the National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., tonight from 6 to 9pm. The new collection includes artwork by students from Yollocalli Arts Reach; bring art supplies to benefit the organization, and don't forget to bring quarters to pick up some buttons.

Barbara Kasten "Stages" @ Graham Foundation

Barbara Kasten will be presenting Stages this evening from 5-8pm at the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts. The exhibition is in partnership with the Chicago Architecture Biennial. The Graham Foundation is located at 4 W. Burton Pl.

Chicago Artists Month

From today until November 15, the 20th annual Chicago Artists Month will offer exhibitions, performances, workshops, walking tours, and other artistic experiences around the city. See the link above for a complete schedule of events.

Expressionist Impulses Opening Reception @ Smart Museum of Art

The exhibition, Expressionist Impulses, opens tonight at the Smart Museum from 7-9pm. The show will focus on German and Central European art between 1890 and 1990 with approximately 80 paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The museum is located at 5550 S. Greenwood Avenue.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

The Edgewater Fall Art Fair runs from 11am to 6pm Saturday and today on Granville Avenue between Broadway and Kenwood. The fair includes more than 120 artists and crafters, live music on three stages, a beer garden, children's activities and more. $5 suggested donation.

Lillstreet Art Bash

Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., hosts Art Bash tonight at 6pm to benefit Art Reach, Lillstreet's nonprofit sister organization. Enjoy food from 15 Ravenswood area restaurants, local craft beer, take part in art-making activities and workshops, and bid on items in the silent auction. Tickets are $65, or get $100 VIP tickets and receive a swag bag and access to the roof.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

The Edgewater Fall Art Fair runs from 11am to 6pm today and Sunday on Granville Avenue between Broadway and Kenwood. The fair includes more than 120 artists and crafters, live music on three stages, a beer garden, children's activities and more. $5 suggested donation.

Museum Day Live!

Smithsonian Magazine presents Museum Day Live!, a day where several museums around Chicago (and the rest of the country) are offering free admission for two guests. See the Smithsonian site for the coupon to bring to the museums.

Thomas Kelley Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House

This evening MAS Context presents Thomas Kelley of the architecture collaborative Norman Kelley. Kelley will be discussing the group's current work as as part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks series. The lecture will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.

EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 6pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.

SAIC 150th Anniversary Party

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is 150 years old, and it's celebrating with a series of parties this weekend at 609 S. State St. Most are private, but the Continuing Studies Block Party today from noon to 4pm today is open to the public. It'll feature family-friendly activities, like t-shirt making and mural painting, food trucks, and staffers will be on hand to tell you about the school's continuing ed program. Free.

Ravenswood Art Walk

The Ravenswood Art Walk runs today and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at locations along both sides of Ravenswood Avenue from Waveland to Lawrence. Visit dozens of open studios and see artwork displayed in local businesses, shop in the artist market between Berteau and Belle Plaine, enjoy live music on two stages, and sample locally brewed beer at the Begyle Brewing Urban Beer Garden. The festival is free; $5 suggested donation for admission to the artist market.

EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.

ACTIVATE: The Winner's Circle

The Art Loop Alliance and ACTIVATE present The Winner's Circle, a fashion event in the Sullivan Center alley, on Monroe Street between State and Wabash, tonight from 5 to 10pm. Curated by Cheryl Pope, over 20 Chicago fashion designers and Artists respond to fashion as a membrane through interactive performances, immersive installations, and live styling. Admission is free; RSVP for a free drink ticket.

EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.

EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier

EXPO Chicago, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept 18-20. Tonight's Vernissage preview party, presented by the MCA, runs from 6 to 9pm; tickets are $100.

"Warm Kitty, Soft Kitty" Opening Reception @ The Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center is presenting their newest group exhibition, "Warm Kitty, Soft Kitty" today from 3-5pm. The HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs Sept. 11-13 along Broadway from Stratford to Belmont. The festival this year includes live music on two stages, a cooking demo stage, children's activity area, and more than 150 artists and artisans selling their work. The festival runs from 10am to 10pm today.

"Door Hinges" Jessica Stockholder Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery

Jessica Stockholder will be having her first solo show in Chicago in 24 years at Kavi Gupta Gallery. Stockholder's work is colorful and based in mixed media. The opening reception will be held from 6-9pm and is located at 219 N Elizabeth St.

Chelsea Knight "Fall to Earth" Opening Reception @ Aspect/Ratio

Tonight from 5-9pm, Chelsea Knight will be featuring video and performance work at Aspect/Ratio. The gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria St., 3D.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs Sept. 11-13 along Broadway from Stratford to Belmont. The festival this year includes live music on two stages, a cooking demo stage, children's activity area, and more than 150 artists and artisans selling their work. The festival runs from 10am to 10pm today.

Chrome Green Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., will be featuring 10 artists in the group exhibition, Chrome Green, which opens tonight from 7 to 11pm. The show focuses on nature and environment.


Laura Davis and Seth Kim-Cohen Opening Reception @ Threewalls

Threewalls Gallery will be hosting a solo exhibition for Laura Davis entitled, Legacy of Loneliness, as well as Seth Kim-Cohen's, Bars (of Ponge's "SOAP") work in the Project Room. The opening reception is from 6-9 and the location is 119 N. Peoria, 2C.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday

The Chicago Arts District hosts 2nd Fridays Gallery Night tonight from 6 to 10pm. Check out opening receptions at more than 30 galleries and artists' studios centered around South Halsted and 18th Streets in Chicago. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St. Free.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs Sept. 11-13 along Broadway from Stratford to Belmont. The festival this year includes live music on two stages, a cooking demo stage, children's activity area, and more than 150 artists and artisans selling their work. The festival runs from 6 to 10pm tonight.

Irena Haiduk: Opening Reception @ The Renaissance Society

Irena Haiduk's exhibition, "Seductive Exacting Realism", opens today from 6-9pm at the Renaissance Society located at 5811 S Ellis Ave.

Around the Coyote Festival

Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.

"A Short and Pleasurable Journey" Opening Reception @ Vertical Gallery

Vertical Gallery will be presenting a group exhibition entitled, "A Short and Pleasurable Journey" tonight from 6-10pm. Vertical Gallery is located at 1016 N. Western Avenue. The event is free and open to the public.

Around the Coyote Festival

Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.

Around the Coyote Festival

Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.

Chris Ware Lecture @ AIC

Located at the Art Institute of Chicago in the Rubloff Auditorium, Chris Ware will be in discussion with Hamza Walker from 6-8pm. Ware is an award winning cartoonist and author. The auditorium is located at 230 S. Columbus Dr.

The Street Arcade @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., presents The Street Arcade from 7 to 9:30pm tonight. Artists Steve Ciampaglia and Kerry Richardson are collaborating with 13 teen artists to create original, retro-style videogames. Each teen chooses an issue as the theme, then designs the gameplay, creates the 8-bit artwork and programs the game. The Plug-In Studio will feature the games in an outdoor videogame arcade with old school console controllers and large-scale video projection. The public is invited to play the games, meet the teen artists, and discuss the issues that inspired their games.

Bucktown Arts Fest

The 30th annual Bucktown Arts Fest is Saturday and today from 11am to 7pm in Holstein Park, 2200 N. Oakley Ave. View and purchase work by more than 200 artists, listen to live music on two stages, and enjoy food and craft beer. Admission is free.

"Ripe Leeks" Film Screening @ Filmfront

Filmfront is presenting, "Ripe Leeks: forces adrift", a new quarterly screening series, tonight at 7pm on 1740 W 18th St. "Forces Adrift" will feature work by Alejandro Jimenez, Fern Silva, Jason Ogawa, Traci Hercher, and Ian Curry.

Bucktown Arts Fest

The 30th annual Bucktown Arts Fest is today and Sunday from 11am to 7pm in Holstein Park, 2200 N. Oakley Ave. View and purchase work by more than 200 artists, listen to live music on two stages, and enjoy food and craft beer. Admission is free.

ACTIVATE @ Haddock Place Alley

The Loop Alliance presents ACTIVATE tonight from 5 to 10pm in Haddock Place Alley, Enter on State Street just north of theWit Hotel. Curated by Missy Perkins, Stuart Hall and Keith Brownlee, ACTIVATE presents Steampunk Journey through Time and Space, featuring fire installations and fire spinners, aerial acrobatics, live body painting, tarot cards, a steampunk-inspired fashion show featuring Iridium Clothing Co., and art by more than two dozen artists. There's an afterparty on the roof of theWit, 201 N. State St., beginning at 10pm. Admission is free; RSVP on Do312 for a free drink ticket.

Talk By Albert Tanquero: Vicki Star: Transgender Renegade Of The 1960s @ Comfort Station

As part of the Vernacular Photo Festival at Comfort Station, a talk and visual presentation by Albert Tanquero - Vicki Star: Transgender Renegade Of The 1960s. A Photographic Exploration Of The Star's Life In NYC/SF From The 1950s - 1970s. A unique peek into the life of one of the top transgender burlesque stars of the era.

Comfort Station 2579 N Milwaukee 1:00pm - Free

Ailbhe Murphy and Ciaran Smyth Artist Lecture @ Comfort Station

The Comfort Station is hosting an artist lecture today from 12-1pm with Ailbhe Murphy and Ciaran Smyth. The event is located at 2579 N Milwaukee Avenue.

Madhuri Shukla: Dog Days Opening Reception @ Roman Susan Annex

Madhuri Shukla will be exhibited drawings, sculptures, animations, and murals at the Roman Susan Annex tonight from 7-10pm. The Annex is located at West Birchwood Avenue and North Sheridan Road.

Lost And Found: The Search For Harry And Edna @ Comfort Station

As part of The Vernacular Photo Festival, Comfort Station Presents:

A Visual Presentation by Jeff Phillips: Lost and Found: The Search for Harry and Edna. Phillips is the creator of Lost and Found: The Search for Harry and Edna ((harryandedna.com), a viral social media and photography experiment that became a traveling exhibition and subsequently received national media attention for its content and production.

7:00pm at Comfort Station 2579 N. Milwaukee - Free

"Awkward Dimensions" Opening Reception @ LVL3

LVL3, the apartment gallery located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Avenue, will be presenting "Awkward Dimensions" a two-person show tonight from 6-10pm. The opening reception is free and open to the public.

George Eastman Photography talk @ Comfort Station

As part of The Vernacular Photo Festival
Comfort Station Presents:

Talk by Joe Gioia:
"You press the button and we do the rest"; George Eastman's great invention, and the triumph of snapshot photography. The talk and presentation will focus on the snapshot and it's place in history. A visual presentation will accompany.

Comfort Station 2579 N Milwaukee 5:00 pm Free

Marc Fischer Presentation @ The Franklin

The Franklin will be hosting an event with Marc Fischer of Public Collectors today from 2-5pm in conjunction with his exhibition Hardcore Architecture. Fischer will be playing 1980s 7" hardcore records from bands that are included in his project. The Franklin is located at 3522 W. Franklin Blvd.

These Are Not My Problems @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The 8th Day Center for Justice and the Young Adult Council present These Are Not My Problems: A Social Justice Visualization and Journey tonight from 7pm to midnight at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. The show features artwork in response to the violence and racism in Chicago's communities. Admission is $25, and includes one drink ticket.

The Innocent Eye? (What We Talk About When We Talk About Snapshots) @ Comfort Station

In conjunction with Comfort Station's Vernacular Photo Festival, Nicholas Osborn gives a talk titled The Innocent Eye? (What We Talk About When We Talk About Snapshots) at the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7pm. Osborn has been collecting snapshots for almost twenty years. He is the co-author of Who We Were: A Snapshot History of America and the founder of the late, much-lamented vernacular photography website Square America. Free.

John Conroy @ Uri-Eichen Gallery

Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted St., presents an evening with John Conroy, playwright, journalist and law professor. The discussion is in connection with 40 Acres and a Mule: A Series of Visual Art Shows and Discussions About Reparations for Slavery, an exhibition of activist art. The reception is from 6 to 10pm; Conroy talks at 7pm. Free.

Wine & Cheese Night @ SHoP (Southside Hub of Production)

SHoP, a location in Hyde Park, is inviting individuals for a wine and cheese tasting. SHoP is located at 1448 E 57th St., and is free and open to the public. Visitors are asked to bring a bottle of wine and cheese.

Community Home Movie Night @ Comfort Station

In conjunction with Comfort Station's Vernacular Photo Festival Comfort Film presents:

Community Home Movie Night

The past month and throughout August they've put out a call via social media for the citizens of Chicagoland to bring out their home movies. On August 19th Comfort Station will be screening the results of that call to action. An interesting night of 8mm and 16mm films. Expect the unexpected. Films from Chicagoland collectors will also be screened.

Bill Savage Gallery Talk @ Firecat Projects

Writer and Northwestern professor Bill Savage gives a gallery talk titled "Accidental Beauties: the Aesthetics and Symbolism of Water Tanks (and Other Antiquated Infrastructure)" during the closing reception for This Must Be the Place, an exhibition of paintings by Kevin Swallow, tonight at Firecat Projects, 2124 N. Damen Ave. The reception is from 3 to 5pm today. Free.

Vivian Maier Talk by Pamela Bannos @ Comfort Station

As part of the Vernacular Photo Festival, noted art historian Pamela Bannos will be giving a talk at Comfort Station Gallery in Logan Square, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., entitled "Ceci nest pas un snapshot: Vivian Maier's vintage work," today at 1pm. A wonderful insight into the life and discovery regarding the works of Vivian Maier. Totally free.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival runs Aug. 14-16 on Glenwood and Morse Avenues. Check out art and crafts by more than 100 artists, plus visit open studios and enjoy live music and performances on three stages. Print the handy festival map and go. The festival runs from 11am to 9pm today.

Ma(s)king Her Performance and Screening @ Reva and David Logan Center

The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, in conjunction with Arts + Public Life and Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture, will be hosting an event tonight entitled, "Ma(s)king Her" from 7-10pm. The event includes the Honey Pot Performance and a special screening of "Futurewoman". Free and open to the public. The Logan Center is located at 915 E. 60th St.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival runs Aug. 14-16 on Glenwood and Morse Avenues. Check out art and crafts by more than 100 artists, plus visit open studios and enjoy live music and performances on three stages. Print the handy festival map and go. The festival runs from 11am to 9pm today.

Gallery Talk by Shari Wilkins @ Comfort Station Gallery

As part of the Vernacular Photo Festival, noted curator Shari Wilkins of the Cleveland Print Room will be giving a talk at Comfort Station Gallery in Logan Square 2579 N Milwaukee. A wonderful insight into the collecting and discovery of vernacular photography. Totally free. 7:00pm

Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival runs Aug. 14-16 on Glenwood and Morse Avenues. Check out art and crafts by more than 100 artists, plus visit open studios and enjoy live music and performances on three stages. Print the handy festival map and go. The festival runs from 6 to 10pm tonight.

Stevie Hanley: "Synaesthetica" Opening Reception @ International Museum of Surgical Science

From 6-9pm, "Synaesthetica", will open at the International Museum of Surgical Science and feature the work of Chicago-based artist Stevie Hanley. The museum is located at 1524 N Lake Shore Drive.


Gallery Talk about Archibald Motley Exhibition @ Chicago Cultural Center

Join Daniel Schulman at the Chicago Cultural Center for a discussion about Archibald Motley's exhibition, "Jazz Age Modernist" which is on view until August 31st. The talk will be on the 4th floor, North, in the Sidney Yates Gallery. The talk is free and open to the public.

Claire Arctander Exhibition @ Trunk Show

Tonight from 7-9, Trunk Show will be featuring Claire Arctander in her solo exhibition of "tender" but "both messy and incisive" series of work. The exhibition will be located in a backyard located at 2535 N. Willetts Ct.

Artflicks Screening @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center is hosting a one night only event where the garage doors will be opened in Gallery 1 and transformed into a movie theater. From 4:30-5:45 "Style Wars" will be shown, from 6-6:45 an artist talk and film discussion will occur and at 7:30-8:55pm, "Cutie and the Boxer" will end the event. The HPAC is located at 5020 S Cornell Ave. The event is free and open to the public. Bring snacks and blankets/chairs!

"Ask the Oracle" Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery

"Ask the Oracle" will be opening tonight from 7-11pm at Heaven Gallery located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park. The group exhibition includes painting, sculpture, performance, and video to reference the process of creation and assemblage. The reception is open and free to the public.


Vernacular Photography Festival @ Comfort Station

The Vernacular Photography Festival opens tonight at the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. The festival runs through Aug. 30; tonight at 7pm, collector John Foster gives a talk, "The Emergence of Snapshots as a Collecting Hotspot," and refreshments will be served. Free.

Crow Requiem: A Screening and Discussion @ Gallery 400

Gallery 400, located at 400 S. Peoria St., will be presenting the film "Crow Requiem" (2015) in conjunction with the exhibition "After Today". After the screening, Cauleen Smith, Ian Curry, and Krista Franklin will lead a discussion. The screening will be from 6-7:30pm.

Community Discussion @ Arts Incubator

Artist and Arts + Public Life Director Theaster Gates leads a community discussion at Arts Incubator, 301 E. Garfield Ave., tonight from 6 to 7pm. Area residents are invited to talk about upcoming events, plans and future community arts initiatives. Free.

Alan Lerner Opening @ Rev. Billy's Chop Shop

Rev. Billy's Chop Shop, 4314 N. Lincoln Ave., hosts an opening reception tonight from 5 to 10pm for an exhibition of new prints and collages by artist Alan Lerner. Details on Facebook.

Peter Skvara: "Approaches" Opening Reception @ Andrew Rafacz Gallery

Andrew Rafacz Gallery, located at 835 W. Washington Blvd., will be presenting a solo exhibition of Peter Skvara's paintings and installations today from 4-7pm at an opening reception event. Many of the works in "Approaches" reference shipwrecks, Lake Michigan, and exploration. The works will on view until September 5th, 2015. The event is free and open to the public.

Little City Center for the Arts Closing Exhibit Celebration

I AM Logan Square and LittleCity will be a presenting a screening of "Share My Kingdom" at Logan Theatre, 2646 N Milwaukee Ave, today at Noon. The film showcases three artists from Little City. Once the screening is completed, there will be a reception at the I AM Logan Square Gallery, 2644 ½ N. Milwaukee Ave. Tickets are available online and priced at $10.

Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater @ Links Hall

The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.

Community Mural Paint Day @ Medill & Milwaukee

AnySquared and ABC/Project Logan will hold a community mural paint day from 11am to 6pm today at 2930 N. Medill, behind the tracks at Medill and Milwaukee. The organizers will have paint materials and ask that everyone come dressed for painting. The painting will be done on the Community Wall created several years ago, which has been frequently repainted and touched up. Today's paint day will transform the wall into a new mural.

Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater @ Links Hall

The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.

Kevin Swallow Opening @ Firecat Projects

Artist Kevin Swallow celebrates the opening of his new exhibition, This Must Be the Place, at Firecat Projects, 2124 N. Damen Ave., with a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm.

Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater @ Links Hall

The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.

"NO SAD STUFF" Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio

Tonight from 6-10pm, FLATSstudio will be presenting their July exhibition, "No Sad Stuff", which will feature pop art, nostalgia, and vibrancy. Beverages will be provided by KOVAL Distillery, music by Wild Skies and Indisposed, and live drawings by Grant Goodwine and Landon Perkins. RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com with the number of attendees. FLATSstudio is located at 1050 W. Wilson Avenue.

Opening Reception: Rodrigo Lara "Deportable Aliens" @ The National Museum of Mexican Art

The National Museum of Mexican Art will be hosting an opening reception for the exhibition, "Deportable Aliens" this evening from 6-8pm. In conjunction with the show, the artist, Rodrigo Lara, will be giving a talk on August 19th at 6pm.

Artist Talk with Susan Giles @ The Arts Club of Chicago

The Jackman Goldwasser Resident artist, Susan Giles, will be discussing her work and process with Tony Macaluso at the Arts Club of Chicago. The talk will begin at 12pm. Please RSVP to Arielle Ismail at ariellei@carolfoxassociates.com by July 24. The talk is located at 201 E Ontario.

North Korean Perspectives @ Museum of Contemporary Photography

The group show North Korean Perspectives opens today at 5pm with a brief discussion at 5:30pm at the Museum of Contemporary Photography. MoCP is located at Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan Ave. Free.

Pretend Garage Sale @ Comfort Station

Mothergirl holds a conceptual art event, the Pretend Garage Sale, today from 9am to 3pm in the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. A variety of items will be available to take home for free, but you have to pretend to haggle and pay for them. No, really.

Mom & Pop: Family Business in Art & Life @ Arts Incubator

The Arts Incubator in Washington Park is featuring an opening reception for the group exhibition, "Mom & Pop: Family Business in Art & Life" tonight at 6pm. The show will focus on community, capitalism, and the complications of family.

West Elm Local @ West Elm Chicago

West Elm is hosting a launch party for its pop-in shop West Elm Local tonight, which will feature a collection of locally designed goods by artists and groups such as Rebecca Plotnick, Lucius Art, Real. Soaps, Nourishing Notes, and Earth Cadets. You can meet the makers of these products at the party from 6-9pm tonight. West Elm is located at 1000 W. North in Space B.

Generationalpictomusicapolis @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., hosts Generationalpictomusicapolis, an evening of collaborative music and art-making, tonight from 8pm to midnight. The event features live performances by No Age, Sun Foot and Devin Gary & Ross. Art by all the musicians will be available for sale. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. All ages.

Artfest Michigan Avenue @ Chicago Tribune Building

This new summer art festival will take place today from 10am to 5pm. The festival will feature over 100 artists from around the world, including Zimbabwe artist Peter Rujuwa, Polish Artist Lidia Wylangowska, Julio C. Garcia, Rahmon Olugunna, and Vladimir Pailodze. Admission to the festival is free. The festival will be located at the base of the Chicago Tribune building, 435 N. Michigan.

havoc and tumbled @ Roman Susan Rogers Park Art Space

havoc and tumbled, a new art installation created by Kera MacKenzie and Andrew Mausert-Mooney, will open tonight at 8pm at the Roman Susan Rogers Park Art Space, located at 1224 W. Loyola. The creation includes video, 16mm film, sound, and painting. The reception for this exhibition is in conjunction with the opening of PRO BIAS, featuring 2014 ACRE Resident artists Cudelice Brazelton, Zoe Berg, Tal Nisim, and Sanaz Sohrabi at The Bike Room, which will be open from 5-8pm today.

"Wherever" Opening Reception @ LVL3

LVL3 and CHGO DSGN are hosting an exhibition this evening from 6-10pm entitled, "Wherever". LVL3 is located at 1542 N Milwaukee Avenue on the 3rd Floor. The exhibition will be on view until August 16th. Additionally, there will be a lecture on July 19th at 2pm by Bryce Wilner.


The Freedom Principle Opening Day @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., is free all day today (for Illinois residents) in celebration of the opening of the new exhibition The Freedom Principle: Experiments in Art and Music, 1965 to Now. There will be numerous events throughout the day, including gallery talks, live music and performances. $30 tickets are required for an evening concert with Douglas R. Ewart's Clarinet Choir, Homage to Malachi Maghostut Favors on the MCA Stage at 7:30pm. The museum is open from 10am to 9:30pm today.

Artfest Michigan Avenue @ Chicago Tribune Building

This new summer art festival will take place today from 10am to 7pm and continue throughout the weekend. The festival will feature over 100 artists from around the world, including Zimbabwe artist Peter Rujuwa, Polish Artist Lidia Wylangowska, Julio C. Garcia, Rahmon Olugunna, and Vladimir Pailodze. Admission to the festival is free. The festival will be located at the base of the Chicago Tribune building, 435 N. Michigan.

You Are Beautiful @ Galerie F

Matthew Hoffman and You Are Beautiful help Galerie F, 2381 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrate its third anniversary with a show of 100 artist-decorated wooden You Are Beautiful signs, tonight from 6 to 10pm. "Superfluous amounts of beer" from SweetWater and Revolution Brewing will be served to those 21+. Free.

Artfest Michigan Avenue @ Chicago Tribune Building

This new summer art festival will take place today from 10am to 7pm and continue throughout the weekend. The festival will feature over 100 artists from around the world, including Zimbabwe artist Peter Rujuwa, Polish Artist Lidia Wylangowska, Julio C. Garcia, Rahmon Olugunna, and Vladimir Pailodze. Admission to the festival is free. The festival will be located at the base of the Chicago Tribune building, 435 N. Michigan.

Heather McAdams @ Sulzer Regional Library

Chicago artist Heather McAdams will be presenting her work Comic Strips, Movie Clips, & Potato Chips tonight at 6pm at Sulzer Regional Library, located at 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. The exhibit showcases her self-portraits, comics, and needlepoint designs of country music stars. During the event, she will also present her series of 16mm short films that spotlight jazz, folk, and country music, as well as vintage television ads, movie trailers, and more. McAdams is well-known for her work as a cartoonist at the Chicago Reader. Admission to the event is free.

TCC Digital Buffet

TCC Chicago presents its first Digital Buffet, where you can either download your fill from a variety of digital artists, OR you can eat your fill from a delicious buffet! Or both! This happens tonight at 6:00pm at Catalyst Chicago (650 West Lake Street); admission is $5 for food, $10 for food + art, and $19.95 for food + art + artist-customized USB drive. More details at the Facebook event page.

Tell it to the Birds @ Millennium Park

Jenny Kendler, the Natural Resources Defense Council Artist-in-Residence, presents her work Tell it to the Birds at the Mylayne Pavilion in Millennium Park's Lurie Garden today from 11am to 6pm. The work is an interactive piece that delves into the connections between human culture, the natural world, and declining biodiversity. The installation transforms human speech live into bird song, with only the speaker aware of the meaning behind their birdsong. This is a one-day-only event.

History Meets Theater @ Oriental Institute

"When History Meets Theater" is the title of a free lunchtime gallery tour on Mesopotamian art and archeology today at the Oriental Institute, 1155 E. 58th St. Maren Robinson, dramaturg for Timeline Theatre's current production of inana, and Kiersten Neumann, Ph.D. in Mesopotamian art and archaeology, will share their reflections on items located in the Edgar and Deborah Jannotta Mesopotamian Gallery.

Froot Salad Pride Party @ Annoyance Theatre and Bar

Today beginning at 3PM, Froot Salad, will be celebrating love, happiness, and pride at the Annoyance Theatre and Bar located at 851 W. Belmont Ave. RSVP for a reduced price of $7.

Made-Up with Danny Volk @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is hosting Danny Volk's on-going project, "Made-Up with Danny Volk" today at 3pm. While interviewing artists, Danny simultaneously allows them to do his makeup. For this particular interview, Faheem Majeed will discuss his life and art while applying makeup to the host. The event is free.


Logan Square Arts Festival

The Logan Square Arts Festival runs June 26-28, centered on the square itself as well as locations along Milwaukee Avenue and the surrounding area. The festival features art exhibitions in local galleries and businesses, live music on two stages on the square, food and drink vendors and family-friendly activities. The festival runs from noon to 10pm today.

Aesthetic Disorder Opening Reception @ The Archer Beach Haus

Archer Beach Haus, in collaboration with S+S Project, will be featuring a group exhibition entitled, Aesthetic Disorder, tonight from 6-10pm. The space is located at 10pm at 3012 S. Archer Avenue.


Logan Square Arts Festival

The Logan Square Arts Festival runs June 26-28, centered on the square itself as well as locations along Milwaukee Avenue and the surrounding area. The festival features art exhibitions in local galleries and businesses, live music on two stages on the square, food and drink vendors and family-friendly activities. The festival runs from noon to 10pm today.

Signs of the Times Opening Reception @ Johalla Projects

Johalla Projects, 1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 209, hosts an opening reception for Signs of the Times, a new exhibition of work by street artist Dont Fret, tonight from 6 to 10pm. Wheat pastings and stylized characters that project humor, neighborhood culture, and charm, will be exhibited in the show which is on view until July 31.

"Pot Shop Pop Up" Opening Reception @ Tusk

A pop-up exhibition located at Tusk will feature 30+ artists tonight at an opening reception from 7-9pm. Tusk is located at 3205 W Armitage Avenue. Pot Shop Pop Up is free and open to the public.


Logan Square Arts Festival

The Logan Square Arts Festival runs June 26-28, centered on the square itself as well as locations along Milwaukee Avenue and the surrounding area. The festival features art exhibitions in local galleries and businesses, live music on two stages on the square, food and drink vendors and family-friendly activities. The festival runs from 6 to 10pm tonight.

Wavelength Film Screening @ The Art Institute of Chicago

From 6-8pm, the AIC will be presenting the avant-garde film by Michael Snow, Wavelength, in Price Auditorium. The film will be shown on 16mm format and was created in 1966 over a one week time span. The event is free with museum admission. The AIC is located on 111 S. Michigan Avenue

School Night: Political Correctness 101

Homeroom presents School Night: Political Correctness 101, a performance, presentation and panel discussion with artists and professionals about taboo, art and activism, and negotiating safer workspaces, tonight at the Arts Club of Chicago, 201 E. Ontario Ave., at 6pm. H. Melt, Damon Locks and Cassandra Troyan present, Fred Sasaki and Seth Vanek moderate. Free; RSVP on Facebook. UPDATE: This event has been postponed due to illness. We'll relist it once it's rescheduled.

Stardust Memories Annual Benefit and Silent Auction @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery will be hosting their 15th Annual Benefit and Silent Auction at their location in Wicker Park at 1550 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Artists, Soo shin, Liz McCarthy, Aron Gent, Marissa Lee Benedict, Phil Peters and many more will be featured in the silent auction. Tickets are $50 for VIP and $15 for the dance party. The event is from 6-11:30pm.


Ivan Lozano: Suffocated From the Inside Opening Reception @ Andrew Rafacz

Today from 4-7pm, Andrew Rafacz Gallery will be opening the exhibition, Suffocated From the Inside, featuring works from the artist Ivan Lozano. The gallery space is located on 835 W. Washington Blvd.

Not to Be Taken @ Sector 2337

Today at 3pm, Terri Kapsalis and Anne Elizabeth Moore perform Not to Be Taken, a work of artistic action as part of Ellen Rothenberg's exhibition elsetime at Sector 2337, 2337 N. Milwaukee Ave. Admission is free.

Alice Tippit: La Force Opening Reception @ Paris London Hong Kong

Opening tonight from 5-8pm, Paris London Hong Kong, will be presenting the works of Alice Tippit in the exhibition, "La Force". PLJK is located on 845 W. Washington Blvd., 2nd Floor.

John Himmelfarb Opening Reception: "No Exit" @ McCormick Gallery

Thirty years of "trucks, icons, and weird drawings", will be presented at McCormick gallery in the solo exhibition, "No Exit" tonight from 5-7PM. The work of John Himmelfarb will be on view until August 15th. McCormick Gallery is located at 835 W. Washington Blvd.


Wells Street Art Festival

Entering its 41st year, the Wells Street Art Festival is a loved Chicago summer festival. The festival will include an array of juried art, tastes from local restaurants, live music, and activities for kids and families. The festival includes artwork from over 200 individuals, and will begin today at 11 am, located on the portion of Wells St. between North Ave. and Division St. Admission to the festival is free, however there is a suggested gate donation, which will benefit the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association.

Orange You Glad! Opening Reception @ Ballroom Projects

From 7-10pm, Ballroom Projects is hosting an opening reception for the exhibition, "Orange You Glad!". The group show features artists Dan Mrva, Claire Ashley, and Matt Mancini. The event is location at 3012 S. Archer Avenue #3.

Wells Street Art Festival

Entering its 41st year, the Wells Street Art Festival is a loved Chicago summer festival. The festival will include an array of juried art, tastes from local restaurants, live music, and activities for kids and families. The festival includes artwork from over 200 individuals, and will begin today at 11 am, located on the portion of Wells St. between North Ave. and Division St. Admission to the festival is free, however there is a suggested gate donation, which will benefit the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday

The June edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in East Pilsen will feature work by multi-disciplinary artists in 30-plus galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District. You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the calendar. 6pm-10pm.

Chantala Kommanivanh "Sabai, Sabai" Opening Reception @ NYCH Gallery

NYCH Gallery is presenting the new paintings of Chantala Kommanivanh during an opening reception tonight from 6-10pm. The gallery is free and open to the public. Located at 643 W 18th St.


Victoria Martinez "Eleven Eleven" @ Elastic Arts

From 8pm until 12am, Elastic Arts, is inviting the public to view Victoria Martinez's evolving installation. Following this exhibition, Martinez will exhibit at the Comfort Station in July and create site-specific sculptures with teenagers from the Logan Square Neighborhood Association. Elastic Arts in located at 3429 W Diversey Ave #208. The exhibition is on view until August 30th.

Hebru Brantley "Memoirs of the Minimum Wage" Opening Reception @ Vertical Gallery

Beginning at 6pm, Vertical Gallery will be opening the new exhibition, "Memoirs of the Minimum Wage" which features a survey of middle-class America. The artist, Hebru Brantley displays this topic through sketches, watercolors, paintings and sculptures. Vertical Gallery is located at 1016 N Western Ave. Free and open to the public.

Claire Sherman "Funeral Mountain" Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery

Kavi Gupta Gallery, located at 835 W Washington Blvd., will be hosting an opening reception from 4-7PM this evening for Claire Sherman's solo exhibition, Funeral Mountain. The exhibition includes works on paper and paintings. Free and open to the public.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

CAKE 2015, the celebration and marketplace for independent comics, runs today and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend panel discussions and workshops, meet comics artists, and buy cool stuff. See the schedule for a list of ancillary events. Admission is free.

The Barack Obama Presidential Library Opening Reception @ Hyde Park Free Theater

The Hyde Park Free Theater, located at 1448 East 57th St., hosts an opening reception tonight from 5 to 9pm for The Barack Obama Presidential Library. Free.

Art Paul "Hard Heads, Sweet Knees, Forked Tongues" Opening Reception @ Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art

Opening today from 6-9PM, the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is presenting artist, Art Paul, in his new exhibition, "Hard Heads, Sweet Knees, Forked Tongues". Paul served as the art director for Playboy for 30 years and also designed the rabbit head logo. The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is located at 2320 W Chicago Ave Chicago. Open and free to the public.


Millennium Art Festival @ Millenium Park

Billed as one of the best in the country, the Millennium Art Festival is sure not to disappoint. Bringing over 110 artists together, the festival will include an array of artwork from paintings to pottery. Live performances and food will also be available at the festival. Festival-goers will also be able to contribute their own creative vibes on a freestanding graffiti wall. Admission to the festival is free, and will be located at the junction of Lake Street and Michigan Avenue. The festival is open from 10am to 5pm today.

Millennium Art Festival @ Millenium Park

Billed as one of the best in the country, the Millennium Art Festival is sure not to disappoint. Bringing over 110 artists together, the festival will include an array of artwork from paintings to pottery. Live performances and food will also be available at the festival. Festival-goers will also be able to contribute their own creative vibes on a freestanding graffiti wall. Admission to the festival is free, and will be located at the junction of Lake Street and Michigan Avenue. The festival is open from 10am to 6pm today.

Danny Floyd & Jeff Prokash Opening Reception @ Cornerstone

Cornerstone, 1701 W. Division St. #2E, is presenting the works of Danny Floyd and Jeff Prokash in the exhibition 2 Tambours tonight from 7-9pm. Free.

Jaime Foster Solo Exhibition "Biophilia" @ Elephant Room Gallery

Tonight from 6:30-9:30PM, Jaime Foster will be exhibiting her smaller scale abstract paintings in her solo exhibition, "Biophilia", at the Elephant Room Gallery. Jamie's work is ethereal, nature inspired, and rich with neutral hues and movement. The work will be on view until July 3rd, 2015. The Elephant Room Gallery is located at 704 S. Wabash Avenue.

Millenium Art Festival @ Millenium Park

Esteemed as one of the best in the country, the Millennium Art Festival is sure not to disappoint. Bringing over 110 artists together, the festival will include an array of artwork from paintings to pottery. Live performances and food will also be available at the festival. Festival-goers will also be able to contribute their own creative vibes on a freestanding graffiti wall. Admission to the festival is free, and will be located at the junction of Lake Street and Michigan Avenue. The festival is open from 11am to 6pm today.

Kori Newkirk Artist Talk @ Logan Center for the Arts

From 6:30pm-8pm, Kori Newkirk will be giving an artist talk at the Logan Center for the Arts in Hyde Park. Newkirk creates paintings, multimedia work, installations, sculptures, and photographs that focus on cultural identity and his personal history. The Logan Center is located at 915 E 60th St. The talk is free and open to the public.

Trade Plants for Poems @ The University of Chicago's Logan Center for the Arts

Cream Co.'s ongoing project, General Economy, Exquisite Exchange (G.E.E.E.) will be located in the Logan Center's courtyard from today, May 26th until May 27th from noon until dusk. The courtyard is located on the U of C campus at 915 E 60th St. 2000 seedlings of fourteen variations of tomato's will be available for trading: for a word, a poem, or for free.


You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include DJ Taye (Teklife), Gel Set and Khaki Blazer. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Kirsten Leenaars' Notes on Empty Chairs @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art presents Notes on Empty Chairs, a series of interactive performances by Chicago-based artist Kirsten Leenaars exploring themes of empathy, loss, and remembrance. Tonight's performance is from 6 to 7pm in the MCA Studio, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free with museum admission.

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Quicksails. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include ONO, Mind Over Mirrors, Potions and TalSounds. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Tim Kinsella, Matt Lux, Alex Ingilzian, Adam Vida, Ben Lamar Guy, Will Faber, Leroy Bach and Ben Boye. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Conversation: Frances Stark @ The Art Institute of Chicago

From 6-7pm this evening, Frances Stark, will be giving an artist talk at the Art Institute of Chicago. Attendance is free with museum admission. The AIC is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue. Following the talk will be an opening reception of Intimism.

Kirsten Leenaars' Notes on Empty Chairs @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art presents Notes on Empty Chairs, a series of interactive performances by Chicago-based artist Kirsten Leenaars exploring themes of empathy, loss, and remembrance. Tonight's performance is from 6 to 7pm in the MCA Studio, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free with museum admission.

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Ed Schrader's Music Beat, Maurice [Paper Mice] and Kyle Kaos. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Jeffly Gabriela Molina Opening Reception @ Kruger Gallery Chicago

Jeffly Gabriela Molina will be presenting her new work at Kruger Gallery Chicago tonight in an opening reception from 6-9PM. The work will be on view until June 27th. Kruger Gallery is located at 3709 N Southport Avenue.

Opening Reception for Feminism (n.): Plural and The Gallery Tally Poster Project @ Woman Made Gallery

Woman Made Gallery will be hosting an opening reception tonight from 6-8pm for their new exhibition, "Feminism (n.) Plural". Additionally, Gallery Tally is a social art project where 300+ artists from around the globe collected and visualized statistical data in regards to the ratios of male and female artists in the top contemporary art galleries. The event will be held at 685 N. Milwaukee Avenue.


Josep Lluís Sert: A Nomadic Dream Screening @ Graham Foundation

This evening MAS Context and the Graham Foundation are screening the film Josep Lluís Sert: A Nomadic Dream. The documentary, written and directed by Pablo Bujosa Rodríguez, tells the story of the architect, city planner, and contemporary of Miró, Calder, and Picasso, and his indelible impact on the course of American architecture. The event begins at 6pm at the Graham Foundation, 4 West Burton Place. Space is limited, so RSVP.

ACTIVATE @ Chicago Loop

The Chicago Loop Alliance is bringing back interactive artwork, music, and culture with ACTIVATE, an alley-based pop-up experience in downtown Chicago. On May 15th, June 12th, July 30th, August 27th, September 18th, and October 16th, the event will be held from 5-10PM. Specific locations will be announced a month prior. RSVP in advance for a complimentary drink ticket for beer or wine.

Manifest Urban Arts Festival @ South Loop

Manifest Urban Art Festival is an all-day event (noon to 9pm) hosted by Columbia College and its students. With live performances, gallery exhibitions, fashion shows, original game design and literary readings, it's a don't-miss event. If you can't make the free event in the South Loop, log into FrequencyTV for exciting all day coverage!

CIADC Opening Day Celebration

The Chicago Industrial Arts and Design Center will be hosting their ribbon cutting ceremony and open house today from 10am to noon at 6433 N Ravenswood. You'll be able to tour their facilities, meet some of their instructors, learn about becoming a member, and more. There will be light refreshments and the event is free and open to the public.

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Diamond Terrifyer and Patrick Higgins. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Oh! Oh! Oh! Opening Reception @ Peregrineprogram

Peregrineprogram, located at 3311 W. Carroll Ave. #119, is featuring a new exhibition entitled, Oh! Oh! Oh!. The photographs by Kelly Kaczynski are reenactments of the eight positions of the body in the Charles Ray sculpture, "Oh! Charley Charley Charley". The opening reception is from 1 to 4pm, and is free and open to the public.


You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Zs and Greg Fox. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

2015 Chicago 7 Bus Tour

Today Preservation Chicago leads a city-wide bus tour of its 2015 7 Most Endangered Places from 10:30am to 2pm. The tour will leave from the parking lot located at 4410 N. Ravenswood. Purchase tickets before the event for $15 or $12 (members). Additional details are available on Facebook.

You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Chris Crack and New Deal Crew, Mic Terror, Palace Sound and DJ Phil. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Test/Move/Play Ability Opening Reception @ Arts + Public Life

Arts + Public Life and the Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture are featuring resident artist, Alberto Aguilar, and his culminating exhibition. The exhibition will take place at several locations which include: Logan Center, Harold Washington College, Arts Incubator, Arts Club of Chicago and 4th Ward Project Space. The opening reception will be tonight from 6-9PM at 301 East Garfield Blvd.

Opening Reception: "Can I See Your ID?" @ Cultura

amfm, a creative hub for local artists will be presenting, "Can I See Your ID?", an exhibition centered on identity this evening at the 2nd Friday Pilsen Art Walk from 6-9PM. The event will be held at Cultura, located at 1900 S. Carpenter Street in Pilsen.

2015 SAIC Runway Fashion Show @ Millennium Park Chase Promenade

SAIC is hosting their annual runway fashion show today at the Millennium Park Chase Promenade, located at 201 E. Randolph St. THE WALK begins at 5:30; tickets can be purchased online.


You Are Here Festival

The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Bitney / Bach / Hatwich and Bruce Lamont. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+

Pitchfork Studio Visit

Visit the Pitchfork studio, 3317 W. Fullerton Ave., with MAS Context and sit down with designer and creative director Michael Renaud and art director Molly Butterfoss. The duo will discuss the ideas behind The Pitchfork Review and experience working on the first four issues of the magazine. Free registration is required. Donations to support MAS Context's public programs are welcome.

MCA Live: Chicago Home Theater Festival

The Chicago Home Theater Festival (CHTF) is focusing on cultural segregation and social isolation at the Museum of Contemporary Art this evening at 6PM. The event will be held at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free!

Cosmosis Opening Reception @ The Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center will be hosting the group exhibition, Cosmosis, today from 2-5PM with refreshments and a live DJ set in collaboration with the experimental sound station. The exhibition is on view until August 23rd. The HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.

Chicago Art Girls Pop Up Shop

Forty of the best art, craft, and more vendors will be selling beautiful items today as part of the Chicago Art Girls POP-UP SHOP. You'll be able to pick up great gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, and for yourself. The show runs from 10am to 5pm at Bell Elementary School located at 3730 N. Oakley Ave. They will also be raising funds for women at Sarah's Circle who are homeless or who need a safe space.

Chicago Art Girls Pop Up Shop

Forty of the best art, craft and more vendors will be selling beautiful items today as part of the Chicago Art Girls POP-UP SHOP. You'll be able to pick up great gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, and for yourself. The show runs from 10am to 5pm at Bell Elementary School located at 3730 N. Oakley Ave. They will also be raising funds for women at Sarah's Circle who are homeless or who need a safe space.

Luftwerk Refractions Opening Reception @ Silent Funny

Luftwerk, the experimental light and installation duo, will be featuring, Refractions, at Silent Funny this evening from 6-10PM. A mid-month concert will be held May 9th from 7:30-10PM and the closing reception will include a live concert on May 29th from 6-8PM. The event is located at 4106 W Chicago Ave.

Daniel Clowes @ Quimby's

Former Chicago artist Daniel Clowes returns to the city tonight to appear at Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) to sign a new reprint of the complete 18-issue run of Eightball. The event happens tonight at 7:00pm, and is free & open to the public. Full details at Quimby's site.

Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists​ Screening & Discussion @ UIC

This evening the film Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists will be screened at Gallery 400 with a panel discussion addressing gender equality in the visual arts. The schedule for the free evening begins with a reception with refreshments at 5:30pm, followed by a 6pm screening and an 8pm discussion with Claudine Isé, Barbara Rossi, Sue Williams, and moderator Judith Russi Kirshner. The event is supported by the Terra Foundation for American Art and is co­sponsored by Gallery 400 and the Jane Addams Hull­ House Museum. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria St. More information about the event is available on Facebook.

S+S Project Video & Performance: Currency Exchange

The S+S Project presents Currency Exchange, an evening of video, performance and hustlin'. RSVP for the address at withinthebody@gmail.com. Video works by Jaycee Conaway, Ben McCoy, Sofia Moreno, Project Rage Queen and many more. Performances by Kiam Marcelo Juno, Isabelle Mcguire, La Spacer and many more as well. The evening begins at 7pm.

Explore the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries @ The Art Institute

This morning readers of MAS Context will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Art Institute's Ryerson & Burnham Libraries. The visit will by guided by Mary Woolever, Art and Architecture archivist, and Nathaniel Parks, assistant archivist. The event starts at 11am and is free with museum admission. Participants must register online before the event.

Liz Larner @ The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is welcoming artist, Liz Larner, for a solo exhibition of her sculptural work today until September 27th. The AIC is located at 111 S. Michigan Ave.; hours are Mon-We, Fri-Sun 10:30-5; Thu 10:30-8.


WORK WERQ: Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio

FLATSstudio is presenting WORK WERQ, an exhibition which focuses on Asian American identity. Music by Carla Starla and beverages by KOVAL Distillery will be presented at the show. FLATS is located at 1050 W. Wilson Ave. Please RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com and include the number of guests.


Sensing and Sensibility Panel Discussion @ SAIC

This afternoon MAS Context and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago present a panel discussion entitled "Sensing and Sensibility: Politics and Technology in the Contemporary City," featuring Javier Arbona, Ingrid Burrington, Laura Forlano, and Douglas Pancoast. The free event will be moderated by Iker Gil. The event runs from 4:30-6:30pm at the Columbus Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Dr., Room 203.

Frances Stark: Intimism @ The Art Institute of Chicago

Opening today is "Intimism", the exhibition of Frances Stark's video and digital production pieces. The pieces displayed will feature her lo-fi Cat Videos, which she began in 1999. The exhibition opens today and runs until August 30th in Galleries 182-186. The Art Institute of Chicago is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue.

Spring Exhibitions @ The Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center will be presenting new exhibitions for the spring today from 3-5PM. HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.

Outpost by Lou Mallozzi @ The Hyde Park Art Center

From 3-4PM today, Lou Mallozzi, Chicago-based sound and installation artist, will be surveilling audience members at the Hyde Park Art Center. The event is free and open to the public.

YarnCon

If you like to do anything with yarn, anything that requires yarn, or if you just like being surrounded with pretty soft things, then you'll want to go to YarnCon today. There are a wide variety of classes offered for all skill levels, many vendors who are hard to find at larger yarn shows around the country, and so much inspiration that you'll leave agog and full of ideas. Head over to Chicago Journeyman Plumbers Union Hall (1340 W Washington St.) today from 10am to 3pm.

Home Video Day @ Nightingale Cinema

Chicago's first Home Video Day will be held today from 1-5pm at the Nightingale Cinema, 1084 N. Milwaukee Ave. To participate, bring your VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Hi-8, Video 8 or Mini-DV cassette to have it inspected and repaired (if necessary) before playing up to 5 minutes of the video for the audience. Visit the event's Facebook page for the compete details.

YarnCon

If you like to do anything with yarn, anything that requires yarn, or if you just like being surrounded with pretty soft things, then you'll want to go to YarnCon today. There are a wide variety of classes offered for all skill levels, many vendors who are hard to find at larger yarn shows around the country, and so much inspiration that you'll leave agog and full of ideas. Head over to Chicago Journeyman Plumbers Union Hall (1340 W Washington St.) today from 10am to 5pm.

Dmitry Samarov @ Rational Park

Dmitry Samarov celebrates the opening of an exhibition of his work at Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave., with a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm.

Michael Kubo Lecture @ SAIC

MAS Context and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago present a lecture at 6pm by architect and author Michael Kubo at the School of the Art Institute's LeRoy Neiman Center, 37 S. Wabash Ave. Details via MAS Context.

Shooting Star Screening and Discussion @ Harold Washington College

William Cordova, a resident at Harold Washington College, will screen, Shooting Star, a documentary about Jean Michel Basquiat today at 10:30 AM. A panel discussion will follow the film. The location is 30 E. Lake Street.

The Best of: A Student Showcase

Paola Coletto presents an evening of: Storytelling, Melodrama, Tragedy, Bouffon, Grotesque character & Clowning featuring her second year students (from 5 nations) at the School for Theater Creators this coming Saturday at MSA & Circus Arts at 1934 N. Campbell Avenue. The will be a Q&A session with the students and faculty about The School and its new nine month program which will start in September 2015. TO RSVP and reserve tickets email rsvptheschool@paolacoletto.com. Space is limited.

Coming Through @ Defibrillator Gallery

Defibrillator Gallery is presenting, a performance convergence tonight from 7-10PM. Five performance artists will be featured this evening at 1463 W. Chicago Ave. *Please bring an object that reminds you of your mother.

Chatter: Architecture Talks Back Discussion @ The Art Institute

This afternoon the Art Institute's new exhibition "Chatter: Architecture Talks Back," which looks at "the diverse contemporary methods and approaches wielded by five emerging architects," opens with a conversation among contributors Jimenez Lai of Bureau Spectacular, John Szot of John Szot Studio, and Chris Grimley of over,under, among others. Details on the Art Institute website. Free with admission.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday

2nd Fridays Gallery Night is a monthly showcase of 30+ creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as Pilsen East). You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted St., between 16th St. and Cermak Rd. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.

For the Love of Toys @ Galerie F

Urban Vinyl Daily and Galerie F, 2381 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrates the opening of the exhibition For the Love of Toys with a reception tonight from 6 to 10pm. Check out custom vinyl figures, hob nob with the artists and enjoy Revolution beer.

Deniz Gül: Experimental Music Performance @ The Hyde Park Art Center

Turkish artist, Deniz Gül, is presenting 5 Person Bufet this evening at 6:30 PM. The event is a collaborative experimental music performance which is free and open to the public. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.

Imaginary Landscapes Opening Reception @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Lisa Alvarado, Robert Burnier, Assaf Evron and Caroline Kent are the featured artists in the exhibition, Imaginary Landscapes opening at the Chicago Urban Art Society, Satellite Space. Curated by Allison Glenn, the exhibition raises questions concerning physical space, time and memory. The opening reception begins at 6 PM and is located at 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor.

Soloists from Fonema Series II: Kathryn Schulmeister

Kathryn Schulmeister will be playing the double bass tonight at High Concept Labs at 2233 S. Throop St., on the 4th floor of Mana Contemporary. This is the second component of Fonema Consort's HCL residency program. The event begins at 8pm and is free and open to the public.

DarkMatter: #ItGetsBitter @ Arts Incubator

DarkMatter, a trans south asian performance art duo, will be inviting the public for an evening of poetry, discussion, and healing, over the topic of new queer futures. The show will be followed by a Q&A at the Arts Incubator location at 301 E Garfield Blvd. Doors open at 5PM. Free and open to the public.

Kren Cytter @ The Museum of Contemporary Art

The MCA is featuring video-based artist Keren Cytter, in a solo exhibition that opens today and closes Oct. 4. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Additionally, Cytter will be giving a talk today at 3pm. Admission is $12 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, free to members and children 12 and under.

A Screendance Event @ Mana Contemporary

Monica Thomas, Jason Chiu, Jason Eleweski and Lizzie Leopold/Brian Mazzaferri will be presenting choreographic and filmic works tonight, along with composer Will Huff and music by Doug Kaplan and Maxwell Allison. Refreshments will be provided; pre-purchased tickets are $10, $15 at door. Mana Contemporary is located at 2233 S. Throop St.


Dance Anywhere Event

Dance Anywhere is a party where everyone is invited. Today at 2pm marks the worldwide public art performance where everyone is a performer. Wherever you are at 2pm today, whether it's your work place, school, a street corner or museum, you are encouraged to dance. The event marks the 10th year anniversary of Dance Anywhere.

Uptown Poetry Slam @ Green Mill

Enjoy a night at the Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway, and see open mic performances of poetry and the end-of-the-night competition for just $7. The Uptown Poetry Slam starts at 7pm and is hosted by the slam originator, Marc Smith. Winners receive $10 and bragging rights.

My Kind of Town Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio

FLATSstudio is celebrating Chicago's 178th birthday with the event and exhibition, My Kind of Town. The work in the show will exemplify the architecture, history and culture which thrives in Chicago. The opening is from 6-10PM at 1050 W Wilson Avenue. Beverages will be provides by KOVAL Distillery and music by The Luke Saladin Jazz Trio. The event is free but please RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com.

William Schweigert "Our Debt, Your Debt" Opening Reception@ FLATspace

"Our Debt, Your Debt" is the solo exhibition at FLATspace featuring the works of William Schweigert, a painter located in Chicago. The opening reception is from 6-10PM and is located at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St, 4th floor. The event is free but please RSVP.


THAW 2015 @ Block 37

Tonight #THAW2015 will be partying in downtown Chicago--right in the middle of everything on Block 37. There will be food and drinks and special spirits from Rhine Hall beginning at 6:30 and lasting until 11:30. General admission is $35. The exact location is 108 N. State St.

James Welling @ Art Institute of Chicago

James Welling will be speaking at the Art Institute of Chicago tonight from 6-7pm in Fullerton Hall. The event is offered on the occasion of the launch of the new University of Chicago Press monograph, James Welling: Diary/Landscape and the Art Institute of Chicago's exhibition of the same name. Free with museum admission. More information about the event is available from the Art Institute.

Vara Caivano Gallery Walk Through @ The Renaissance Society

Join the Renaissance Society in this evenings gallery walk-through of Vara Caivano's The Density of the Actions exhibition. The walk begins at 6PM at 5811 S. Ellis Ave. Free and open to the public.

Ireland: Crossroads of Art and Design @ The Art Institute of Chicago

If you want to avoid the crowded streets of Chicago, come celebrate St. Patrick's Day at The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave. See the exhibit titled Ireland: Crossroads of Art and Design with over 300 pieces of art and from Ireland's 18th century. Tickets range from $20 to $14, with discounts available for Chicago residents, students and seniors. Doors open at 10:30am and don't close until 5pm. Children under 12 are free, so bring the whole family.

Matthew Metzger Opening Reception @ Regards Gallery

Regards is featuring the artist Matthew Metzger this afternoon in his opening reception from 4-7PM. The exhibition will be up until April 25th and is located at 2216 West Chicago Avenue.

SAIC Undergraduate Exhibition @ The Sullivan Galleries

The SAIC spring undergraduate exhibition is having its opening reception today from 12-6PM at the Sullivan Galleries. More than 300 students will be completing their degrees this spring and this exhibition will illustrate their impressive and innovative work. The Sullivan Galleries are located on 33 S. State St.,7th floor. The opening reception is free and the show will be on view until April 1st.

Mariana Sissia @ THE MISSION

THE MISSION, 1431 W. Chicago Ave., opens an exhibition of the landscape drawings of Argentine artist Mariana Sissia tonight from 6 to 8pm. The show will be on view until April 25.

18th International Opening Reception @ Woman Made Gallery

Tonight from 6-8PM, Woman Made Gallery will be presenting their 18th International Open which will feature the works of 37 female artists. The gallery is located at 685 N Milwaukee Ave. Free and open to the public.


Faces of Eurydice @ The Flat Iron Arts Building

The Pentagon Theater in The Flat Iron Arts Building presents Faces of Eurydice, a performance piece by the CUBE Ensemble. Dance, opera and theater will be retelling the myth of Orpheus with choreographic work by Hope Goldman and music by Hope Littwin. Faces of Eurydice will premiere from March 12 at 7:30PM until March 21 at 9:30PM. Resale Tickets are $25 admission; $10 industry/student; Regular Tickets are $35 admission; $15 industry/student. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1575 N Milwaukee Ave.


Encounters: Experimental Film and Animation @ Conversations at the Edge

Zagreb, Croatia has been an important location for animation, experimental film, and the avant-garde. SAIC's Conversations at the Edge will be presenting the work of filmmaker Alexander Stewart who produced works in Croatia from the 1960s through today. The event will take place tonight at 6pm at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., and is free and open to the public.

Belfast, Northern Ireland Photography Exhibition Opening @ Art Works Projects

Tonight "Bonfires and Effigies: The Contested Territories of Belfast, Northern Ireland" opens at Art Works Projects, 625 N. Kingsbury St. The free opening runs from 6:25 to 9pm, with a conversation between sociologist and photographer David Schalliol and playwright Terry Boyle taking place from 6:45 to 7:30pm.

Sex Worker Art Show

SWOP Chicago presents the Sex Worker Art Show tonight from 7 to 11pm at the Church of Templehead, 1900 S. Allport St., in honor of International Sex Workers Rights Day. The exhibition will feature portraits of sex workers in a variety of media, created by current and former sex workers. Light refreshments will be served. Free, but donations welcome. 21+

Saving Mes Aynak @ Block Museum of Art

Tonight at 7pm, The Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art will be hosting an event for the screening of the documentary Saving Mes Anynak. The film focuses on an Afghan archaeologist who is trying to save a 5,000 year old archaeological site from a Chinese mining company. General admission is free and the director, Brent Huffman, will be in attendance. The museum is located at 40 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston.

Art Shay, Tony Fitzpatrick & Dmitry Samarov @ Hideout

Art Shay, Tony Fitzpatrick and Dmitry Samarov talk about Chicago's influence on their art tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., with Chicagoist editor Chuck Sudo moderating. Doors open at 7:30, show's at 8:30pm. Free, 21+

FIVE Opening Reception @ LVL3

Tonight from 6 to 10pm, LVL3 hosts the group show [Five] in celebration of five years as an artist run space. Ben Sanders, Evan Robarts, Josh Reames, Sabina Ott and Lauren Clay will all be featured in the exhibition. LVL3 is located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave, 3rd Floor. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served for donations.


2015 Hashbrown Chili Cook Off @ Spudnik Press Cooperative

The annual Hashbrown Chili Cook-Off is happening today at 6pm at Spudnik Press Cooperative, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Suite 302. Enjoy an evening filled with food, games and celebration. General Admission $10; VIP Package $22; Royalty Package $65.

A Portrait Gallery @ Living Room

Arts mentorship organization Ag47 presents A Portrait Gallery!, its annual fundraiser, today from 4 to 7pm at the Living Room, 2423 W. North Ave. For a $5-$10 donation, you'll get a one-of-a-kind work of art in the form of a picture, song or choose-your-own-adventure story.

Soloists from Fonema Series I: Ryan Packard @ High Concept Labs

Soloists from Fonema Consort are curating three programs for part of their residency at High Concept Laboratories. Tonight at 8pm, Ryan Packard, a percussionist, will be performing at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor. Details on Facebook. Free and open to the public.

Heather Gabel Artist Lecture @ Columbia College

Heather Gabel, visual artist and the badass front woman of HIDE, will be having an artist lecture tonight at Columbia College's Hokin Hall. Gabel's artistic practice includes collage, neon, and the themes of death and rituals. The talk is located at 623 S Wabash, Room 109, and begins tonight at 6pm. Free and open to the public.

MoCP 2015 Benefit Auction

Tonight at 5:30pm, the Museum of Contemporary Photography, holds its annual benefit auction at 195 E. Delaware Ave. All proceeds go to MoCP exhibitions, events and public programs. Tickets are $150; register online.

Varda Caivano "The Density of Actions" Opening Reception @ The Renaissance Society

Tonight is the opening reception of The Density of the Actions, a collection of paintings created by Varda Caivano, at the Renaissance Society. Located at 5811 S. Ellis Avenue, the opening will begin a 4PM and will follow with a discussion led by Solveig Øvstebø in the Film Studies Center directly below the gallery.


Doris Salcedo Exhibition @ The Museum of Contemporary Art

Doris Salcedo, a Colombian artist, will be having her first retrospective at the Museum of Contemporary Art,until May 24th. The artist, whose work spans 30 years, will feature her installations and sculptural works. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Avenue. 12$ general admission, Illinois residents have free admission on Tuesdays.

Underground Unseen Opening Reception Exhibition @ FLATSstudio

Tonight at 6PM, FLATSstudio located at 1050 West Wilson Avenue, will be presenting their first exhibition of 2015 with Underground and Unseen. The launch of VAM, a Chicago based magazine, is celebrating the night in conjunction with FLATS. Beverages will be provided by KOVAL Distillery and Lakeshore Beverage. Artists include: Krista O'Meara, Todd Diederich, Alison Van Pelt, Misha Khokhlov, Ali6, AntiBodyCorp, and Owen Bones. Don't forget to RSVP by Thursday, February 19th to rsvp@flatschicago.com; free and open to the public.

Faces of Eurydice Fundraiser @ The Cliff Dwellers Club

The CUBE Ensemble premieres, Faces of Eurydice, a dance-opera which will theatrically re-tell the story of Orpheus, on March 12. Tonight at 7pm CUBE Ensemble hosts a final fundraiser at Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan Ave., 22nd floor. Free entry; cash bar, dessert, an auction, preview of the piece and a live band with dancing will be apart of the fundraising evening.

THE SUB-MISSION: Artist Talk with Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado

The Mission presents the latest in its SUB-MISSION artist talk series today at 6pm, featuring Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado. Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado's site-specific exhibition, Selvanáutica is currently being displayed at The Mission, 1431 W. Chicago Ave. The talk is free and open to the public.

Cheryl Pope Opening Reception @ Harold Washington College

Cheryl Pope, a Chicago participant as a resident artist for the Pedestrian Project, celebrates the opening of her show Just Yell: Unfolding the Folds, today from noon to 2pm in the President's Gallery at Harold Washington College, 30 E. Lake St. Pope will be collaborating with students from the college's Department of Art and Architecture and bring forth conversations about social and relevant issues in today's society. Free.

Artists' Talk: Brian Holmes, Claire Pentecost & Dan Peterman @ Logan Center

This evening at 6pm, The Logan Center, 915 E. 60th St., will be hosting an artists' talk with Brian Holmes, Claire Pentecost and Dan Peterman. The event will involve a discussion about the current exhibition at the Logan Center, Lands End, and the notion of landscape in an artistic practice.


Films by Lyra Hill & Daviel Shy @ Roots & Culture

Lyra Hill and Daviel Shy, Chicago filmmakers and visual artists, will be sharing and discussing their research, experiments and reactions this evening at Roots & Culture, 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., beginning at 7pm. The night will focus on the work that both filmmakers have created in the past seven years. Free.

The Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt @ Art Institute

Need a special Valentines date for your day? Why not go on a naked scavenger hunt in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave.? Watson Adventures will be taking you and your hunny through the museum for a peek at all of the nudes around the museum. Tickets are $41. Tour starts at 1pm. Adults only.

The Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt @ Art Institute

Need a special Valentines date for your day? Why not go on a naked scavenger hunt in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave.? Watson Adventures will be taking you and your hunny through the museum for a peek at all of the nudes around the museum. There are two tours today, at 11am and 2pm. Tickets are $41. Adults only.

Typeforce Six @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The sixth annual Typeforce exhibition of typographic art and design opens tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., with a reception from 6 to 11pm. See works by more than 20 artists and designers. Free.

Interactions with Light Opening Reception @ Chicago Art Department

Tonight is the opening reception for Interactions with Light, which will transform the Chicago Art Department gallery space in an interactive piece by Connie Wolfe and Galina Shevchenko. The opening reception begins at 6pm tonight, and the closing reception is Feb. 28 at 6pm. CAD is located at 1932 S. Halsted St, #100.


Try Youth as Youth @ David Weinberg Photography

David Weinberg's new exhibition, Try Youth as Youth, examines the juvenile justice system in America through the medium of photography, sculpture and video installation. Four artists will have their work featured in the gallery, located at 300 W. Superior St., Suite 203, from Feb. 13 to May 9. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm; free.

Simultaneous: Seripop + Sonnenzimmer @ Center for Book and Paper Arts

Chicago-based artists, Sonnenzimmer and the Montreal-based artists, Seripop, are both exhibiting their work today from 5-8PM at the Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College Chicago. The reception is located at 104 S. Wabash Ave., 2nd floor. The event is free and open to the public.

Try Youth as Youth Impact Night @ David Weinberg Photography

Tonight the ACLU of Illinois and David Weinberg Photography are hosting a special impact event before the official opening of a new exhibition about the juvenile justice system in America, "Try Youth as Youth." Proceeds from the night's ticket sales will benefit the ACLU of Illinois' Children's Rights Initiative. Buy tickets online. The opening reception for the show follows the next night. The exhibition will run from February 13 to May 9 at David Weinberg Photography, 300 W. Superior Street, Suite 203.

Table Talks: Chi-chi Nwanoku @ The Currency Exchange Cafe

The Currency Exchange Cafe in Washington park is hosting Table Talks, which are intimate lunches with visiting artists, and will be inviting Chi--chi Nwanoku today from 1-3PM. The event is free but RSVP is required. Email artsandpubliclife@uchicago.edu with "Table Talk: Chi-chi Nwanoku in the subject line, and include name and email address for anyone you are having as a plus one.

Videos by Hannah Piper Burns @ The Nightingale

Indie movie theater The Nightingale,1084 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts THROUGH THE PRISM, a night of films by the artist Hannah Piper Burns, tonight beginning at 7pm. Burns' work has been described as, "fun, funny, feminist, physical, 'found footage.'" $7-10 donation requested at the door.

Footwork Workshop @ High Concept Labs

Today, from 1-4PM, Mana Contemporary is hosting an opening house at 2233 S. Throop St. During the open house, High Concept Labs will adjunctly invite visitors to learn from THE ERA, a footwork dance crew. The event is free and located on the 4th floor.

Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists @ the Chicago Cultural Center

Pentimenti Productions and the City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events present a free screening of the film Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists, followed by a special panel discussion with Chris Ware, Karl Wirsum, Dan Nadel, and Robert Cozzolino on comics and humor in art. The screening will start at 3pm, with the panel discussion beginning at 5pm, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., 2nd Floor North. Visit the Pentimenti website for more information.

2nd Floor Rear 24 Hour Art Festival

2nd Floor Rear is a 24-hour arts festival featuring apartment galleries, migrant projects, experimental spaces, and Chicago's DIY art community. The festival will take place at various locations near the Blue Line. The contributors make the festival free so check out 2nd Floor Rear's Indiegogo for support.

The Height Below Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery is featuring a two-person exhibition entitled The Height Below, with Chicago-based artists Elizabeth McCarthy and Soo Shin. Heaven Gallery is located in Wicker Park at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the 2nd floor. The opening reception begins at 7pm and will include lots of bread!


Mossy Cloak Opening Reception @ Roots & Culture

Curated by the collective Third Object, Roots & Culture is opening Mossy Cloak tonight at 6pm. The group exhibition will feature photography, painting, sound and sculptural work of six artists. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., and is free and open to the public.

Chicago Bike Winter Art Show

The 18th annual Chicago Bike Winter Art Show opens tonight at Genesis Art Supply, 2525 N. Elston Ave., from 6 to 11pm. Check out the art inside and enjoy a cash bar, food trucks outside and the soothing sounds of DJ Larry Sellars. RSVP on Facebook.

Ultimate Painting @ Double Door

The Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., is the setting tonight for Ultimate Painting, a speed painting competition in which artists do the best work they can in 20 minutes and the audience judges the winner. Tickets are $8; doors open at 7pm. 21+

"And sometimes gravity" Opening Reception @ Adds Donna

Join Adds Donna today from 1-4PM for the opening reception of the group exhibition featuring Chris Duncan, Assaf Evron, Alina Tenser, and Radius. Adds Donna is located at 4223 W. Lake St. The exhibition will on view until March 8th.


Mary Dorrell and Thomas King Exhibition @ Arts on Elston

The Art House is sponsoring a two person exhibition for Mary Dorrell and Thomas King today at Arts on Elston. The opening reception begins today from 3-6PM for the two artists whose work is made up of photography and painting. The event is located on 3446 N Albany Ave. RSVP to Exposed@TheArtHouse.us

Build Presence: Public Interactive Art Project @ Chicago Cultural Center

The growing movement in support for racial justice and an end to police brutality is the core of "Build Presence". The interactive art project will encompass this social movement and create a space for the public to meditate, cultivate, and embody knowledge. The event will be held at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, today from noon-5:30 and Sunday February 1st, noon-4:00. Alexandria Eregbu will be opening up her studio on the first floor for this public installation.


The Art of Connection Exhibition @ The Sullivan Galleries

Tonight from 7 to 9pm, the Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State St., 7th floor, presents The Art of Connection, an exhibition featuring the work of art therapy students at SAIC. The opening reception is free, and the exhibition will be on view until Feb. 14.

The world is mystical, dangerous and delicious @ Western Exhibitions

Western Exhibitions, 845 W. Washington St., 2nd floor, holds an opening reception from 5 to 8pm this evening for their newest exhibition, The world is mystical, dangerous and delicious. The group exhibition features artists Elijah Burgher, Pamela Fraser, Dana Carter and Leah Mackin. The event is free and open to the public.

Alyssa Greenberg & Curtis Miller @ Mutual Interpretation

Alyssa Greenberg and Curtis Miller will be presenting and sharing their research at Mutual Interpretation this evening from 6:30-8PM. Greenberg will analyze art museum education from the 70s, which includes the Met and their Arts Awareness program, which was intended for youth, people of color, and others absent in traditional art settings. Moreover, Miller will discuss his research with working with items and images in rural and Midwestern settings. Pizza and refreshments will be served; free. The talk will be held at 935 W Harrison, Henry Hall Rm 106.

Transforming Accessory Group Exhibition @ LVL3

Ben Barretto, Clare Grill, and Spencer Stucky are three artists participating in the group exhibition Transforming Accessory at LVL3 located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception is tonight starting 6PM and continues until 10PM. Free.

Peanut Colada @ Roman Susan Annex

The Peanut Gallery is joining with Roman Susan Gallery in a site-specific, one-night-only exhibition featuring performances, sculptures, paintings, drawings and a plethora of other works by Ryan Burns, Brandon Howe, Charlie Megna, Jessi Meliza and Kelly Reaves. The Roman Susan Annex is located at 1637 W. Howard St. The evening kicks off at 4pm and lasts until 8pm.


Out of Site Mini Series @ The Chicago Cultural Center

Out of Site Chicago is a curatorial project that focuses on art in public spaces, public performance art and the publics perception. Today at noon in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., there will be a continuation of the mini-series, "On Occasion," which welcomes guest speaker Robin Deacon, artist, writer and filmmaker. Free.

Late-Night Party @ Art Institute

The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., is hosting Late-Night Party: After Dark, an event in celebration of "Temptation: The Demons of James Ensor," from 9pm to midnight tonight The party will include live music, after-hour tours of the exhibition, and refreshments. Tickets can be purchased online, at the museum, or by phone at 877-307-4AIC. Evening associates $15, Members $20, Nonmembers $30.

Richard Williamson's Good Times Waiting Room @ The Honey Hole

The Honey Hole, a temporary art gallery located at 1656 S. Throop St., will be hosting an opening night with works by Zachary Cahill, Great Northern Labs, David Lloyd and DJ Phoenix. The event takes place this evening from 7-10PM. DJ Phoenix begins at 9PM; Free.


Mathias Poledna Artist Talk @ The Renaissance Society

LA-based, Austrian-born artist Mathias Poledna gives talk this evening at the Renaissance Society pertaining to his current exhibition and film display. The event is free and will take place at the Film Studies Center, 5811 S. Ellis Ave, in Cobb Hall on the third floor.

John Gossage Conversation @ Art Institute

John Gossage, whose work is currently being exhibited in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., will be visiting Chicago for a conversation with Matthew S. Witkovsky and Richard and Ellen Sandor to discuss the retrospective tonight in Fullerton Hall at 6pm. Free with museum ticket.

Mary Louise Reynolds: Book Bindings @ The Art Institute of Chicago

Today the Art Institute will open the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries where the book bindings of Mary Louise Reynolds, an American influence to the Parisian Surrealist movement, will be on exhibition until March 23rd.

Document Discussion @ Woman Made Gallery

Today at 1pm, Woman Made Gallery, 685 N. Milwaukee Ave., presents Chicago-based curator Jessica Cochran and juror of the recent exhibition, Document, in a discussion about the featured artists in the show. Details on Facebook Free.

Libby Chaney @ The Rockefeller Chapel

Artist Libby Chaney presents her large-scale fiber pieces at the Rockefeller Chapel, 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave. The exhibition, Seasons, will have an opening reception today at 12:15pm and Jan. 22 at 4pm. Refreshments will be served; free.

Stephanie Serpick and Christopher Ottinger @ Bert Green Fine Art

This evening at Bert Green Fine Art, the works of Stephanie Serpick and Christopher Ottinger will be featured in an opening reception event. In addition to the opening reception, at the closing reception on February 28th at 4pm, Ottinger will be having an Artist's Talk. Bert Green Fine Art is located at 8 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 620.

Ensor in Context Lecture @ The Art Institute of Chicago

Today at 2pm in Fullerton Hall, the AIC will be hosting a lecture about James Ensor's art and Les XX, an avant-garde group whom he was in affiliation with during his lifetime. This lecture is open to the public. The AIC is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue.

Alberto Aguilar: Celebratory System Exhibition at Kitchen Space

Kitchen Space, an alternative art gallery located in a kitchen, will be featuring the work of Alberto Aguilar, who will present several celebratory dinners during his solo exhibition in the gallery. Kitchen Space is located on 2716 N. Monticello Ave., 1F. Free and open to the public.

Exodus Exhibition @ Arts Incubator

Arts Incubator, located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd. in Washington Park, holds an opening reception for the exhibition Exodus, featuring works by Alexandria Eregbu and Alfredo Salazar-Caro, this evening at 6pm.

Harun Farocki & Trevor Paglen: Visibility Machines @ Gallery 400

UIC's Gallery 400, 400 S. Peoria St., features photography, film, and new media by the late artist Harun Farocki and Trevor Paglen, in the two person exhibition Visibility Machines. The opening reception is from 4 to 6pm today. Free.

Andreas Siqueland Talk @ The Logan Art Center

Oslo-based artist Andreas Siqueland will be giving an artist talk today at 6pm at The Logan Art Center, 915 E. 60th St., in room 802. Free.


Larry Cutler Solo Exhibition: Faces on Fire @ The Art House

Today from 2 to 6pm, The Art House, 3453 N. Albany Ave., hosts an opening reception for Larry Cutler's new solo exhibition with champagne, a silent auction, and hors d'oeuvres. Additionally, at 3pm there will be an artist talk in the gallery space. RSVP at facesonfire@thearthouse.us.

Alex Bradley Cohen & Marissa Neuman @ Roman Susan Gallery

Roman Susan, located at 1224 West Loyola Avenue, will be featuring the works of Alex Bradley Cohen and Marissa Neuman this evening from 6-9PM. The exhibition, "Living to Work Together" will be on view until January 23rd.

Boys Will Be Boys Exhibition @ Mana Contemporary

From 6 to 9pm tonight, Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St.,5th floor, and Ordinary Projects host an opening reception for the Polish American artist, Kasia Ozga, and her solo show "Boys Will Be Boys."

Living to Work Together Exhibition @ Roman Susan

Roman Susan, 1224 W. Loyola Ave., celebrates the opening of an exhibition of work by the artists Marissa Neuman and Alex Bradley Cohen tonight at 6pm. The show will be up for viewing until the 23rd of January.

Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building

Every second Friday of each month, the Fine Arts Building, located at 410 S. Michigan Ave., opens their doors and studios to the public for a free evening event. Starting from 5pm and ending at 9pm, the event will include fiber artists, musicians, yoga, and tap dancing lessons.

The Shining @ Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave. hosts a screening of The Shining tonight at 6pm in the Price Auditorium, in conjunction with the exhibition focus: Lucy McKenzie. Registration is not required for this event, however, basic AIC entrance fees are required.

No Media Performance Event @ High Concept Laboratories

No Media is a realtime performance, media, and improvisational art event held at High Concept Laboratories in Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., tonight at 8pm. The event consists of matching random artists who are registered on the No Media website and given ten minutes to perform. Sign up is free and open to all artists.

Group Exhibition @ The Art House

The Art House gallery, located at 3446 N Albany is a studio and workshop center where exhibitions are held monthly. Today from 2-6pm and tomorrow, December 21st, from 2-6pm, opening and closing receptions will be featuring the works of Beth Borum, Christine Connor, Michael Coon, Timothy Curtin, Barbara Hopkins, Faun Manne and Ginny Voedisch in a group exhibition. Free and open to the public.

Open Studio Holiday Sale @ Amanda Gentry Studio

Mana Contemporary artist Amanda Gentry will be opening up her studio to the public eye today at noon until 4pm. Gentry will be inviting visitors for wine, conversation, and most importantly, a variety of bakeware, mugs and cups and an assortment of other pieces at 2233 S. Throop St., fourth floor.

3rd Fridays Open Studios @ Zhou B Art Center

Tonight from 7 to 10pm, the Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St., hosts its 3rd Friday Open Studios. Free and open to the public.

Danica Favorito: Old Work-About Face Opening Reception @ Domus

This evening from 6 to 9pm, Domus, 653 W. 28th St., hosts an opening reception for the artist Danica Favorito. Further details on Facebook.

Richard Hunt Exhibition @ The Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago is celebrating the art of Richard Hunt, an eighty year old sculptor who is a local resident and great contributor to Chicago arts. The MCA will be featuring Hunt's sculptures and drawings which span from the 1950s to the 1990's. The exhibition will be run until May 17th. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. $12 general, $7 students, free kids 12 and under. Free admission for Illinois residents on Tuesdays.


Alex Chitty Opening Reception @ Adds Donna

Located at 4223 W. Lake, Adds Donna, is an experimental collective which will be hosting and featuring the work of Alex Chitty, a Chicago based artist. The opening reception is held from 2-5PM today and the show will be on view until January 18th.

A. Laurie Palmer's Book Release @ Threewalls Gallery

A. Laurie Palmer, a sculpture professor at SAIC, is hosting her new book launch, "In the Aura of a Hole: Exploring Sites of Material Extraction," published by Black Dog Publishing. Palmer will speak with Rebecca Zorach, an art history professor at the University of Chicago, today starting at 4 until 6pm at Threewalls Gallery, located at 119 N. Peoria #2C.

Crafters and Musicians Holiday Pop-Up Market

Looking for creative and original gifts for people this year? Then you'll enjoy shopping at this holiday pop-up market presented by Crafters and Musicians. And you'll get to listen to some great music while you check your list twice and buy gifts from local artists and crafters. Stop on by today at Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster Ave., from noon to 5pm.

Chicago Arts District Second Fridays

The September edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in Pilsen will feature work by multi-disciplinary artists in 30-plus galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District. You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.

Upcycled Holiday Card Making Workshop @ The WasteShed

The WasteShed, located at 914 N California 1F, offers repurposed art, craft, and school supplies in order to promote an affordable and sustainable environment. The Upcycled Holiday Card Making Workshop today from 6:30-9:30PM, will provide materials for holiday card making as well as a how-to for creating gift bags from maps and calendars. The workshop costs $10 and includes all materials. Kids are welcome! Registration is required.

Follow Focus: The Ladies Almanack @ The Nightingale

Daviel Shy's The Ladies Almanack is still a work in progress, but throughout the coming year, The Nightingale's Follow Focus program will present excerpts in four installments while giving viewers a peek behind the scenes. The first screening takes place tonight at 7pm, at 1084 N. Milwaukee and will include a presentation from Shy and dramatic readings from the novel. For the $15 ticket price, you'll even get a souvenir: part of a Ladies Almanack tarot deck designed by Jess LeMaster, also to be released gradually over the course of the series.

Mathias Poledna Opening Reception & Discussion @ Renaissance Society

The Renaissance Society, located at 5811 S. Ellis Ave., Bergman Gallery, Cobb Hall 418 on the University of Chicago's campus, will be presenting the work of Mathias Poledna, an LA based artist. The reception will begin at 4pm with a screening of a 35mm film. Solveig Øvstebø, the director of the Renaissance Society, will lead a discussion with Andrew Weiner at 5pm in Kent Hall, Room 120. Talk and opening reception are free and open to the public.

International Small Print Show

The Chicago Printmakers Collaborative hosts its 25th annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale Dec. 5-7. See and purchase prints by over 60 artists. The show is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Renegade Craft Fair @ Bridgeport Art Center

The Renegade Craft Fair & Holiday Art Sale continues today at the Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St. Hours are 11am to 6pm. You can preview this year's lineup of 200+ artists and artisans. The fair also features free workshops plus music, coffee, hot chocolate bar, food and sweets, and beer and wine. BAC's artists and designers open their studios to visitors. Admission is free. More details here.

He Qi Opening Reception and Artist Talk

The Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1500 W. Elmdale Ave., holds an opening reception for the artist He Qi today from 2 to 6pm. Make sure to attend the gallery talk at 3pm and a "meet the artist" session at 4:30pm.

Type Sets Lecture by Claire Keys @ A + D Gallery

Claire Keys, a writer originally from the Midwest, visits Columbia College's A + D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., to discuss typography and text in conjunction with their current exhibition, TYPES, today at 2pm. Free.

Sistah Sinema Chicago Film Screening: Thick Relations @ Gallery 400

Today from 2pm-4pm, Gallery 400 will be teaming up with the UIC Gender and Sexuality Center and the organization Sistah Sinema to launch a monthly event which features queer women of color. The December film is titled, "Thick Relations" and will follow with a discussion expanding on the topics presented in the film and elsewhere. Admission is $10 for the general public and free for those with a UIC card. Snack and beverages will be provided. Gallery 400 is located on 400 S. Peoria St.

International Small Print Show

The Chicago Printmakers Collaborative hosts its 25th annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale Dec. 5-7. See and purchase prints by over 60 artists. The show is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Renegade Craft Fair @ Bridgeport Art Center

The Renegade Craft Fair & Holiday Art Sale returns this year today and tomorrow at the Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St. Hours are 11am to 6pm both days.
You can preview this year's lineup of 200+ artists and artisans. The fair also features free workshops plus music, coffee, hot chocolate bar, food and sweets, and beer and wine. BAC's artists and designers open their studios to visitors. Admission is free. More details here.

Krampusnacht @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Tonight from 8pm until midnight, the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., hosts Krampusnact, which features artwork, treats and an all-around Krampus theme. Wear your favorite Krampus costume, or simply attend the event. $10 admission includes drink ticket, $5 with Krampus related costume (includes drink ticket). Must be 21 to enter.

Media Futures Opening Reception @ Sullivan Galleries

This afternoon, from 4:3 to 7pm, the Sullivan Galleries will be hosting an opening reception for their new exhibition, Media Futures. The exhibition will focus on the intersection between fine art and media. The Sullivan Galleries are located at 33 S. State St., 7th floor; the show will run until Feb. 14. The opening reception is free and open to the public.


International Small Print Show

The Chicago Printmakers Collaborative hosts its 25th annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale Dec. 5-7. See and purchase prints by over 60 artists. The show is open from noon to 5pm today.

Holiday Sale @ the Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., presents a large selection of paintings, pottery, prints, photographs and much more in their holiday sale today from noon to 5pm. The artworks are made from Oakman-Clinton School & Studio artists. Admission is free.

David Schalliol @ International Museum of Surgical Science

This evening MAS Context and the Society of Architectural Historians present a talk by David Schalliol regarding his feature-length documentary project about a community being displaced to make way for an intermodal transportation facility. The first short from the project can be viewed on GB. The event runs from 6pm-8pm and is hosted by the International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 N Lake Shore Dr. There is a suggested donation of $10, wine included. More information about the event and its co-sponsrs is available via Mas Context. RSVP via eventbrite.

Amanda Gutierrez Talk @ Mana Contemporary

GRIDS artist, Amanda Gutierrez, will be giving an artist talk today at Mana Contemporary in the Radius Space. The talk will begin at 3pm and is located at 2233 S. Throop St in Pilsen. Gutierrez's work focuses on performance and sound, which she fuses together in her projects and pieces. In addition, the talk will broadcast live on NUMBERS.FM at the Comfort Station in Logan Square. The event is free and open to the public.

Michael Milano Solo Exhibition for Trunk Show

Located at "a friend's garage" on 427 N. Albany, the mobile exhibition space Trunk Show will be hosting an opening reception today from 11am to 1pm for Chicago-based artist and writer, Michael Milano. The show features bumper stickers and will benefit Trunk Show's purchase of a new tape deck for the venue/car.

23rd Annual Wreathing of the Lions @ Art Institute

The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., officially place the evergreen wreaths on their lion statues this morning at 10:30am. Following the ceremony there will be some family holiday crafts to participate in; see the Art Institute's website for details.

SAIC Holiday Art Show

The School of the Art Institute's 26th annual Holiday Art Sale runs Nov. 20-22 in the SAIC Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for art of all media created by more than 120 students. The show's open from 10am to 5pm today. Admission is free.

DIY Trunk Show @ Broadway Armory

Forget Black Friday. Kick off holiday shopping today while supporting local with the eleventh annual DIY Trunk Show, Chicago's largest one-day indie craft fair, featuring more than 130 local vendors selling handmade, one-of-a-kind items. Unique jewelry, ceramics, paper goods, bags and purses and even pet accessories are among the many items available in addition to free hands-on workshops and "make and take" jewelry projects. The show opens at 10:00 a.m. and runs until 5:00 p.m. at Broadway Armory, 5917 N. Broadway. Stop by the Gapers Block table for swag and free stickers.

Nicholas Rigger & Steve Ruiz Opening Reception @ FLATspace Mana Contemporary

Mana Contemporary located at 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor, will be hosting an opening reception tonight from 6-10pm, featuring work by artists Nicholas Rigger and Steve Ruiz.


SAIC Holiday Art Show

The School of the Art Institute's 26th annual Holiday Art Sale runs Nov. 20-22 in the SAIC Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for art of all media created by more than 120 students. The show's open from 11am to 7pm today. Admission is free.

SAIC Holiday Art Show

The School of the Art Institute's 26th annual Holiday Art Sale runs Nov. 20-22 in the SAIC Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for art of all media created by more than 120 students. Tonight's preview event is from 6 to 9pm, and costs $25.

Traci Fowler Opening Reception @ C33 Gallery

The Love That Let Us Share Our Name is Traci Fowler's first solo exhibition, and it opens at C33 Gallery, 33 E. Congress Pkwy, 1st floor, at 5pm tonight. The show will feature sculptural pieces, domestic objects and foliage that "pump up the tackiness" of traditional materials. The exhibition will be on view until Dec. 5.

ART21 Screening and Conversation with Jennifer Reeder @ Gallery 400

Today at 12pm, Chicago-based filmmaker and artist, Jennifer Reeder and UIC MA candidate, Andie Kimura will be holding a conversation and leading a viewing of ART21's Episode 4. Katharina Grosse, Joan Jonas, and Omer Fast are the artists featured in the episode tonight. Event is free, snacks will be provided and Gallery 400 is located on 400 S. Peoria St.

Streetlight 2.0 Video Screenings @ Roman Susan Gallery

Roman Susan Gallery ANNEX, 1637-1643 W. Howard St. will be hosting a video screening tonight at 6pm. Twenty-one artists will be featured at the screening, which is free and open to the public.

Blue November Opening Reception @ NYCH Gallery

Tonight at 6pm, NYCH Gallery, 643 W. 18th St., will feature 10 artists who express personal emotions, social relevance and craft in their work. The artists exhibited are: Abraham Brand, Cesar Conde, Jaime Foster, Michael William Foster, Nasim Hantehzadeh, Lexygius Calip, Phillip Scott, Chantala Kommanivanh, Christie Chew-Wallace, Shana Zentner. Free.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

Mel Phongsavath: DIN-DIN Opening Reception @ Outhouse Gallery

Outhouse Gallery, a visual art exhibition space located in the West Loop will be exhibiting a one night event for the artist Mel Phongsavath. Outhouse will be transformed into a south eastern Asian domestic dining space through installation work and the participation of the public. Outhouse Gallery is located at 212 N. Sangamon St., Apt 3B. Free.

Hannah Givler: Affects Illustrated @ 4th Ward Project Space

Hannah Givler presents her work at the 4th Ward Project Space, 5338 S. Kimbark Ave. in Hyde Park. The exhibition, Affects Illustrated, explores architecture and site specific installation. The event will begin at 3pm today. Free.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from noon to 6pm today. Read our preview in A/C.

Noelle Allen's "GRAFT" Opening Reception @ Comfort Station

Opening tonight, "Graft", a new exhibition will be featured at the Comfort Station located on 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Logan Square. The reception is from 4pm-8pm and is free and open to the public. The show features the work of Noelle Allen, alongside several other artists that inspire or are influential to Allen's practice.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Read our preview in A/C.

LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs @ Renaissance Society

At 8pm tonight, LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs will bring words, sounds, and video in her performance at the Renaissance Society, 5811 S. Ellis Ave. in Hyde Park. The event is associated and programmed through the Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture at the University of Chicago. Free.

Alivia Zivich Opening Reception @ Night Club

Night Club, 2017 W. Moffat St. #1, will be featuring the show Bottomless, exhibiting work by Alivia Zivich tonight from 7 to 9pm. The work will remain up until Dec. 5. Free.

Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists Screening & Discussion @ U of C Film Studies Center

Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists will be screened this evening at University of Chicago's Logan Arts Center, 915 E. 60th St., followed by a panel including Rebecca Zorach, professor of Art History, University of Chicago; Richard Born, senior curator, Smart Museum of Art; Allison Peters Quinn, director of exhibitions and residency programs at the Hyde Park Art Center; Jim Falconer [pdf], member of the original Hairy Who exhibition group. Additional details on the Film Studies Center website.

Mint & Serf Graffiti Artists @ Maxwell Colette Gallery

Opening tonight at the Maxwell Colette Gallery at 908 N. Ashland Ave., the two graffiti artists Mint & Serf will be premiering their large scale canvas paintings. The opening reception starts at 6pm and lasts until 9pm. The show will be up until Dec. 31. Read our preview in A/C.

Venus Flytraps, Bugs & People Doing Things Around the House: A Show of Drawings by Zach B (Age 30) & AJ Holub (Age 7)

The Beat Kitchen, located at 2100 W Belmont, will be hosting a lovely show featuring Zach B, an outsider artist, and a "young art prodigy," AJ Holub. The opening night begins tonight at 6pm until midnight. Free and open to the public.


SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Read our preview in A/C.

SAIC Visiting Artists Program: Lewis Hyde

Tonight from 6 to 7:30pm, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosts their visiting artists program in the Rubloff Auditorium, 230 S. Columbus Dr. Lewis Hyde is a critic, poet and translator who will be discussing his recent publications and their relations to the arts. SAIC's Visiting Art Program lectures are always free and open to the public, however, seating is first come first serve.

Lorelei Stewart Lecture @ Columbia College

Through Columbia College's A+D Lecture Series, Lorelei Stewart, Director of Gallery 400 will be giving a talk titled, "Let Me Tell You a Story". Located at 623 S. Wabash, Room 203, the lecture series is FREE and open to the public. The talk will begin at 6pm.

Central Manufacturing District Walking Tour

Join Preservation Chicago and Landmarks Illinois on a walking tour of the Central Manufacturing District from 1pm-3pm this afternoon. The Central Manufacturing District was founded in 1902 by F. H. Prince and A.G. Leonard, making it one of the -- if not the first -- full service industrial real estate developments in the United States. It remained in operation as late as the 1980s. Get $5 tickets and the full details on Facebook.

Closing Reception: Soul Kitchen @ Kitchen Space

Kitchen Space, the alternative art space located in Logan Square, is hosting a closing reception for Karolina Gnatowski's show "Soul Kitchen". Starting at 9am today and ending at noon, Kitchen Space invites viewers for morning beers, fantastic fiber art and a silent wind chime. Kitchen Space is located at 2716 N. Monticello Ave., #1F. Free.


Halloween Party @ Flats Studio

Looking for an open bar, photo booth pictures and devilish tunes on your Halloween night? Flats Studio is hosting a party with Hello Mr., a magazine that discusses men who date men, and the celebration of their bi-annual publication. The party takes place at 1050 W Wilson Avenue from 10pm-2am. RSVP here for $30.


Aaron Draplin Lecture @ Film Row Cinema

The A+D Lecture Series presents designer Aaron James Draplin tonight at 6pm.The Draplin Design Co. provides a number of projects which include print, identity and illustration. The talk will be in the Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash Ave, 8th floor. Free; RSVP on Facebook.

Anda Korsts: Video Metropolis @ Gene Siskel Film Center

Anda Korsts, a Chicago artist and video creator, will show work from 1972-82, with a discussion following the screening. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located on 164 N. State St. The event starts at 6pm; tickets are $11, $6 for film center members and $7 for students.

Robin Dluzen Artist Talk @ Lillstreet Loft

The Lillstreet Lecture Series located at the Loft on 4437 N Ravenswood Ave. is presenting the artist and art critic, Robin Dluzen. This is the tenth and final speaker for the artist lecture series. The talk begins at 7pm and ends at 8pm. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Opening Reception: Nicole Dyer & Matt Hilvers @ South of the Tracks

Open Mic Night, a two person show presenting the works of Baltimore artist, Nicole Dyer and Chicago based artist, Matt Hilvers, opens this afternoon at 4pm. South of the Tracks is an art gallery located on 319 N. Albany Ave. The event is free and open to the public.

Opening Reception @ PEREGRINEPROGRAM

The show Flamingo Clouds and Blue is opening today from 1pm to 4pm and will be on view until Nov. 23 at PERIGRINEPROGRAM, 3311 W. Carroll Ave. #119. The two artists, Sara Tabatabaie-Raissi and Trace Krug, are both painters who attended SAIC. The event is free.


Opening Reception: Thresh/hold @ Roman Susan ANNEX

Megan Sterling's exhibition at the Roman Susan Annex, located in the Howard Theatre at 1637-1643 W. Howard St., is a compilation of work that focuses on hands and feet and the physical and psychological tension that follows. This afternoon at 5pm, the ANNEX will be hosting the opening reception until 8pm. The exhibition is on view until October 29th. The Roman Susan Annex is the gallery's space's off-site program which explores alternative spaces in Rogers Park. The event is free and open to the public.

Project Recall: HCL @ Mana Contemporary

Utilizing sound and visual components, Project Recall aims to achieve a sense of nostalgia, memory and perception through a set of three live performances at High Concept Laboratories. HCL has a beautiful studio space on the fourth floor of Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St. The artists include Anthony Janas /Amanda Gutierrez, Nick Briz, The Fortieth Day + Noise Crush. Doors open at 7:30 and the show starts at 8 and goes on until 10pm. $5 admission.

Opening Reception: Andrew Barco & Eddie Breitweiser @ ThreeWalls

ThreeWalls, 119 N. Peoria St., Suite 2C, is hosting an opening reception of the work by Andrew Barco and Eddie Breitweiser this evening from 6 to 9pm. Barco's work, large-scale kinetic sculptures, in comparison to Breitweiser's, LED's and symphony of light are both meditative and conversational. The opening is free and open to the public.

The City Lost & Found @ Art Institute

Opening tonight from 6 to 8pm, The Art Institute of Chicago is presenting The City Lost & Found, a series of photographs and works capturing New York, Chicago and Los Angeles from 1960-1980. The exhibition will be on view until Jan. 11. The opening reception requests an RSVP which can be done at jvilla2@artic.edu or 312-443-3631. Enter through the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe St. for this event.

Opening Reception @ Aspect / Ratio

Aspect/Ratio is a contemporary art gallery that exhibits upcoming video artists. Located on 119 N. Peoria St. #3D, the gallery will have their opening reception for A rose is a rose is a rose is a rose this evening from 5 to 8pm. That's right, the fabulous line from Gertrude Stein's 1913 poem, Sacred Emily, is the title for the current exhibition. Through exploration of identity and meaning, Marcos Balter, Edmund Chia, Rebekah Heller and Casilda Sánchez present their works through video and performance in the space. The show will be up until Nov. 29. Free.

Sketchbook Swap Exhibition @ Jupiter Outpost

Arts of Life hosts an reception for its Sketchbook Swap exhibition tonight from 5 to 8pm at Jupiter Outpost, 1139 W. Fulton Market. In the project, each of the Chicago artists paired up with an artist from the North Shore Studio and sent a sketchbook back and forth, sharing their work and stories of art making. Check out the results and meet some of the artists. Free.

Cao Fei: Haze & Fog @ Gene Siskel Film Center

The Gene Siskel Film Center, located on 164 N. State St. is hosting Cao Fei, a video and installation artist whose work mixes fantasy and documentary in order to present China's economy. Haze and Fog will be showing at the film center at 6pm. Following Haze and Fog will be a discussion. $11 general public, $6 film center members, $7 students.

Panel Discussion with Photography Susan Meiselas

The Logan Center located in Hyde Park is hosting a panel discussion with the Award winning Magnum photographer, Susan Meiselas. The discussion will be geared toward human rights and Meiselas' photographic project, "El Mozote". The event is free and open to the public. The Logan Center is located 915 E 60th St. and the discussion will be held in Seminar Terrace 801. For more information call 773-834-0957 or email human-rights@uchicago.edu


Chicago Artist Month 3rd Friday @ Zhou B Art Center

The Zhou B Art Center is celebrating 10 years this 3rd Friday! The art center will be hosting an exhibition art, music, food and entertainment for the night from 7-10PM. The location of the event is 1029 W. 35th St. Contact 773-523-0200 or info@zhoubartcenter.com for more information. FREE!

Meghan Grubb + Peter Hammar @ Heaven Gallery

Tonight from 7-11 PM Heaven Gallery, located in Wicker Park, will be hosting an opening reception for the two artists, Meghan Grubb and Peter Hammar. Grubb focuses on installation, photo and video while Hammar explores performance and video. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. The reception is free; refreshments and snacks will be served (usually delicious bread).


Jordan Martins Artist Talk @ Chicago Artists Coalition

Tonight from 6-9PM, Jordan Martins will be bringing selections of his work as well as conversation to the Chicago Room & Board Showroom located on 217 N. Carpenter St. Jordan is also the program director at the Comfort Station, a creative space located in Logan Square. The event will include wine and snacks and is open to the public.

BOO HAHA Beer Tasting at Chicago Truborn

Are you a beer lovin', snack tasting, art lover? Then come to the BOO HAHA event at Chicago Truborn located at 1418 W. Division St. to view "Chicago's Best New Art Gallery". Tickets are $10, event starts at 6pm and ends at 10pm. Call 773-420-9764 for more information regarding the event.

Álvaro Enrigue @ Crowe Hall

As part of the inaugural Lit & Luz festival, award-winning author Álvaro Enrigue will be reading from his latest short story collection, Hypothermia. After the reading there will be a discussion with Director of the Center of Writing Arts at Northwestern, Reginald Gibbons. The event is free and goes from 12:00 pm to 2:30 at Crowe Hall (1860 Campus Drive).

Andersonville Arts & Design Weekend

Andersonville's 12th annual Arts & Design Weekend runs Oct. 10-12 throughout the neighborhood. Beginning at 11am today, find art exhibitions, demos and performances in stores, restaurants and other spaces, all free. See the full schedule for details.

Andersonville Arts & Design Weekend

Andersonville's 12th annual Arts & Design Weekend runs Oct. 10-12 throughout the neighborhood. Beginning at 11am today, find art exhibitions, demos and performances in stores, restaurants and other spaces, all free. See the full schedule for details.

Andersonville Arts & Design Weekend

Andersonville's 12th annual Arts & Design Weekend runs Oct. 10-12 throughout the neighborhood. Beginning at 6pm tonight with the "Night of 100 pARTies," find art exhibitions and performances in stores, restaurants and other spaces, all free. See the full schedule for details.

Meet Your Maker @ Links Hall

Chicago Artists Month and Links Hall to host a Creative Conversation in Chicago. This Creative Conversation, titled "Meet your Maker" is envisioned as an opportunity for local arts leaders to engage and meet face-to-face - bridging the divide between artists and arts administrators. Creative types, at any stage in their professional career, are encouraged to join us for an evening of exploration among arts-passionate people.

"Meet your Maker" is produced in the spirit of relationship and community building in the arts. Rather than a panel discussion or facilitated conversation about a particular topic, attendees 'come-as-they-are'. This smorgasbord of backgrounds, experiences and knowledge will provide a framework for interdisciplinary networking. Attendees are encouraged to break away from the comfort of the known and enter an unfamiliar space. Through informal round-table discussion "Meet your Maker" aims to foster new relationships and introduce arts professional to resources they may never have known existed!

Special guests include: • Chris Barrett, visual artist • Marie Casimir, Links Hall• Jeanelle Chang, Chicago Sinfonietta• Martin Garcia, Surmount Studio • Nikki Jolly, Chicago Park Chicago Arts District • Jessica Kaswiner, Artists Mean Business podcast • Merideth Lacina, Illinois Artisans Program, Illinois State Museum • Jenny Lam, Sixty Inches From Center • Jennifer Jansen, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Alumni • Marivi Ortiz-Shoda, photographer • Meida Teresa McNeal, Changing Worlds • Eva Silverman, Arts Alliance Illinois

Sunday, October 19, 2014
5:30pm-7:30pm
Links Hall
3111 N. Western Ave | Chicago, Illinois
Suggested donation of $5 to cover food and refreshments.

Open to the public. RSVP here:

www.fanfueled.com/Event/Details/3773-meet-your-maker-where-chicago-creatives-connect

Ravenswood ArtWalk & Detour

The 13th annual Ravenswood ArtWalk Tour of Arts & Industry runs Oct. 3-5 along the Ravenswood corridor between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue. From 11am to 6pm today, view art in galleries and artist studios as well as local businesses. And from noon to 6pm, Ravenswood Detour adds a street festival atmosphere to the mix, with live music, craft beer and spirits, and a food truck corral at Ravenswood and Berteau. $5 suggested donation.

7th Annual Spudnik Press Benefit

Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard St, Suite 302, has been providing artists with studio resources, book publishing, public exhibitions and residency programs for seven years now. Through tonight's benefit, Spudnik Press hopes to raise $10,000 to support the 2,500 visitors who have come to the cooperative. Starting at 5pm, a silent auction will feature studio sketches, visual brainstorms, artist proofs, draft, studies, notes and ephemera. General admission ($15) includes one complimentary drink and popcorn.


Ravenswood ArtWalk & Detour

The 13th annual Ravenswood ArtWalk Tour of Arts & Industry runs Oct. 3-5 along the Ravenswood corridor between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue. From 11am to 7pm today, view art in galleries and artist studios as well as local businesses. From noon to 9pm, Ravenswood Detour adds a street festival atmosphere to the mix, with live music, craft beer and spirits, and a food truck corral at Ravenswood and Berteau. $5 suggested donation.

Ravenswood ArtWalk Opening Reception

The 13th annual Ravenswood ArtWalk Tour of Arts & Industry runs Oct. 3-5 along the Ravenswood corridor between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue. Tonight's opening reception runs from 7:30 to 10:30pm at the Ravenswood Events Center, 4025 N. Ravenswood. $10 admission gets you in for local craft beer, wine and food, plus a raffle and live performances by the Oistrach Symphony Orchestra and the Amaranth belly dance troupe. A photo exhibit from Heartland Alliance will also be on view.

Fantasy Zone: K-9 ISLAND Opening Reception @ Hidden Dog

Tonight from 6 to 10pm, Hidden Dog, 2151 W. 21st St., hosts an opening reception for Fantasy Zone: K-9 ISLAND, a show that focuses on the relationship between abstraction and figuration. Artists Karolina Gnatowski, Sharmila Banerjee and Andrew Holmquist are featured in the show, and their work aims to create a conversation between the abstract and figurative aesthetics of their art. The exhibition will be on view until Oct. 24.

Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios

Cornelia Arts Building holds its monthly Open Studios night tonight from 6 to 10pm. Visit artists' studios and see artwork from more than 40 artists, plus special hallway guest artist exhibitions, complimentary refreshments, live jazz music by the Swingline Quintet, and a food truck.

FOUND: PS Page Me Later Opening @ Intuit

FOUND: P.S. Page Me Later, an exhibition of some of the best items to appear in FOUND magazine, opens at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., with a reception tonight from 5 to 8pm. Free.

SAIC Visiting Artists Program: Claire Bishop & Claire Doherty

The SAIC Visiting Artists Program offers creatives around the city a chance to participate and listen to lectures by artists and historians around the globe. This evening in the Rubloff Auditorium, 230 S. Columbus Dr., Claire Bishop and Claire Doherty will be having a dialogue starting from 6pm to 7:30pm. Free. For more information, contact events@saic.edu or 312-899-5185.

500 Clown at the Threshold @ Smart Museum

What happens when you begin as an observer and then transition into a participant when viewing artwork in a museum? The Smart Museum in Hyde Park is seeking out the answer to this question in their event this afternoon/evening titled, "500 Clown at the Threshold." Starting at 5pm, the event will feature live performances and conversations inspired by the sculptures that are on view currently from the show, Carved, Cast, Crumpled: Sculpture All Ways. The Smart Museum is located at 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. and is free to the public.


Video Playlist @ MoCP

Interested in video screenings and installation artwork? The Museum of Contemporary Photography is hosting an event titled, "Video Playlist" today at 6PM in the main gallery. The event is made up of of a one-night public screening by artists whose work is related to MoCP. Contact (312) 663-5554 for more information. MoCP is located at Columbia College at 600 South Michigan Avenue.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

The best way to wrap up the summer is by purchasing something awesome that was made by a local artist or craftstperson. The best way to do this is at the Edgewater Fall Art Fair that runs today from 11am to 6pm. The fair will host at least 100 local artists on Granville between Broadway and Kenmore Avenue. You'll be able to view and purchase paintings, photographs, jewelry, mixed-media, accessories, pottery, and so much more.

Museum Day Live!

Twelve Chicago museums and several in the suburbs are participating in Smithsonian's annual Museum Day Live this Saturday, Sept. 27. Register online for two free tickets to the museum of your choice.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

The best way to wrap up the summer is by purchasing something awesome that was made by a local artist or craftstperson. The best way to do this is at the Edgewater Fall Art Fair that runs today from 11am to 6pm. The fair will host at least 100 local artists on Granville between Broadway and Kenmore Avenue. You'll be able to view and purchase paintings, photographs, jewelry, mixed-media, accessories, pottery, and so much more.

White Mystery @ MCA

White Mystery covers the music of David Bowie tonight at the ">Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., at 6pm, in association with the exhibition David Bowie Is. Free with museum admission.

David Bowie Is @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art presents David Bowie Is, a collection of album artwork, photographs, handwritten notes, and much more for an exhibit opening today and running through the New Year. Full details at the MCA Website. MCA: 220 East Chicago Avenue. Box office: (312) 397-4010.

Expo Chicago

The third annual Expo Chicago art exhibition brings over 140 international galleries to Navy Pier Sept. 19-21. View and purchase artwork from around the world, attend panel discussions, and check out other programs. Tickets are $20, or $30 for a thee-day pass. The festival runs 11am to 6pm today.

Expo Chicago

The third annual Expo Chicago art exhibition brings over 140 international galleries to Navy Pier Sept. 19-21. View and purchase artwork from around the world, attend panel discussions, and check out other programs. Tickets are $20, or $30 for a thee-day pass. The festival runs 11am to 7pm today.

Expo Chicago

The third annual Expo Chicago art exhibition brings over 140 international galleries to Navy Pier Sept. 19-21. View and purchase artwork from around the world, attend panel discussions, and check out other programs. Tickets are $20, or $30 for a thee-day pass. The festival runs 11am to 7pm today. There are also a number of exhibition openings tonight at galleries throughout the city.

Luftwerk @ Chicago's Couch Place alley

The collaborative art duo, Luftwerk, will be showcasing a light and water installation titled, "FLOW/Im Fluss" from September 17th until the 20th from 5 PM - 12 AM on State St. between Lake and Randolph Streets. The opening night of FLOW/Im Fluss will be Sept. 17th and will include a complimentary drink ticket for those who RSVP. The location of the installation is 190 North State Street. More information will be updated on ACTIVATE

Irene Hofmann Visiting Artist @ SAIC

Irene Hofmann (MFA 1994) is giving a talk and lecture at Columbus Auditorium located at 280 S. Columbus Dr. for the SAIC Visiting Artists Program. The event will take place today, September 16th from 6-7:30 PM. It is free and open to the creative public. Contact 312.899.5185 or events@saic.edu for more information.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East neighborhood celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts on Broadway between Belmont and Hawthorne. Hours are 10am to 5pm today. Read our preview of the festival in A/C.

Front & Center Exhibit and BBQ @ The Hyde Park Art Center

The Center Program is presenting the work of its 2014 students at the Hyde Park Art Center, September 13th from 5-8 PM. During this exhibition, the art center will also be celebrating it's 75th Anniversary BBQ from 12-9 PM which will include bouncy houses, a petting zoo, food trucks and three bands/DJ's playing throughout the day. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. To contact the center, email generalinfo@hydeparkart.org. The event and exhibition is free and open to the public (food is not free).

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East neighborhood celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts this weekend on Broadway between Belmont and Hawthorne. Hours are 10am to 6pm today with live music, food and drink tents open until 10pm, and 10am to 5pm tomorrow. Read our preview of the festival in A/C.

Jason Soliday Opening Reception @ Mana Contemporary

The Propeller Fund Pilot Program Fellow Radius is exhibiting their first public exhibition at Mana Contemporary located at 2233 S. Throop St in Pilsen. Jason Soliday will be presenting his work, "Infinite Radius" which will be on view until September 30th. The opening reception is on September 12th from 7-9 PM.


Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East neighborhood celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts this weekend, beginning with a kickoff party tonight. Read our preview of the festival in A/C.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday

The September edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in Pilsen will feature work by multi-disciplinary artists in 30-plus galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District. You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.

Katharine Schutta Opening Reception @ Dreambox Gallery

The conceptual collage artist, Katharine Schutta, has an opening reception at Dreambox Gallery located at 2415 W. North Ave, on Friday September 12th from 6-10 PM. Her work will be up in the gallery until September 27th. The gallery's regular hours are Saturday from 1-5 PM or by appointment. You can contact the gallery at 773 292 0419 or dreamboxgallery@gmail.com. The opening reception is free and open to the public.

Boycott! Opening Reception & Discussion @ Uri-Eichen Gallery

Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted St., hosts a panel discussion of boycotts and activist art tonight at 8pm as part of the opening reception for BOYCOTT! The Art of Economic Activism, an exhibition of signs and artwork related to political activism campaigns. Moderated by Bob Bruno, director of the Labor Studies Program at the University of Illinois, the panel will include Emily Twarog, assistant professor of history and labor studies at UIUC, and Anne Carlson, a teacher and CTU delegate. After the panel, there will be a screening of a work-in-progress documentary by Kartemquin Films on the 1963 CPS boycott. The opening reception runs 6pm to 10pm. Admission is free.

ArtWARENESS @ Threadless HQ

Dark Matter Coffee, Threadless and Hope For The Day present ArtWARENESS, a pop-up art showcase benefiting Hope for the Day’s suicide prevention and awareness projects, takes place at Threadless HQ, 1260 W. Madison St., tonight from 6 to 9:30pm. Art by 35 local and national artists will be raffled, plus music by DJ SnicholFritz and DJ A, food from Uncle Dougie's and beer from Revolution and Brooklyn Brewing. Details on Facebook.

Luiz Gonzάlez Palma Reception & Exhibit @ Schneider Gallery

Mobius, a solo exhibition of the work of Luiz Gonzάlez Palma, will open with a reception at the Schneider Gallery, 230 W. Superior, from 5 to 7:30 pm. The exhibit of photographs with hand-painted geometric elements will be on display through November 31. Gallery hours are 10:30am to 5pm Tuesday through Friday and 11am to 5pm on Saturday. For more information, call 312-988-4033.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Building

It's open house at the Flat Iron Building in Wicker Park, where visitors can peruse works by resident artists as well as guest exhibitors and see various performance art pieces throughout the evening. Hours are from 6pm - 10pm at 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. $5 suggested donation.

Remix Chicago @ Logan Square

Remix Chicago continues today with big plans to celebrate recycled art and crafts and inspire the community to "Remix, Rethink, and Recycle." This two-day event will benefit local school art programs and feature 12 eco-friendly workshops (not to mention live music and food and drinks). Remix Chicago takes place on Milwaukee Avenue between Fullerton and California, from noon to 10pm. $5 suggested donation.

Remix Chicago @ Logan Square

Remix Chicago kicks off today with big plans to celebrate recycled art and crafts and inspire the community to "Remix, Rethink, and Recycle." This two-day event will benefit local school art programs and feature 12 eco-friendly workshops (not to mention live music and food and drinks). Remix Chicago takes place on Milwaukee Avenue between Fullerton and California, from noon to 10pm. $5 suggested donation.

Bucktown Arts Festival

The 29th annual Bucktown Arts Festival runs Saturday and today, 11am to 7pm, in Senior Citizens Memorial Park, 2300 N. Oakley Ave. Browse and buy art and crafts from nearly 200 artists; enjoy music on two stages, theater and dance on another; plus children's poetry and kids activities all weekend long. This year there's also a solid-looking line of craft beer on tap. Admission is free, donations gladly accepted.

Bucktown Arts Festival

The 29th annual Bucktown Arts Festival runs today and Sunday, 11am to 7pm, in Senior Citizens Memorial Park, 2300 N. Oakley Ave. Browse and buy art and crafts from nearly 200 artists; enjoy music on two stages, theater and dance on another; plus children's poetry and kids activities all weekend long. This year there's also a solid-looking line of craft beer on tap. Admission is free, donations gladly accepted.

Albany Park World Fest @ Lawrence & Kimball

The Albany Park neighborhood represents a very diverse area in the city, so what better event to host than World Fest at its doorstep! The entertainment starts Saturday at 12:30pm with Tsukasa Taiko (Asian drumming) and continues with many other acts through the evening Saturday and Sunday.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

My Big Fat Greek Grand Opening @ Corks & Brushes

Corks and Brushes is an alternative art space located in Greektown. The space offers BYOB painting classes as well as kids painting and craft classes. Tonight from 7pm to 11pm is the grand opening celebration of their second location, at 770 W. Gladys Ave., which will feature meet and greets, artwork, Greek food and plenty of wine. RSVP online or choose to make a small donation to the art space.

David Schalliol @ Washington Park Arts Incubator

This evening David Schalliol will be presenting his work on his Isolated Building Studies, along with two projects that started on Gapers Block, "To be Demolished" and "The Area." The conversation will be hosted by Andres L. Hernandez, who is repurposing an underutilized space behind the Arts Incubator into "Hush Harbor," a pop-­up, open-air forum inspired by historical accounts of bush arbors or hush harbors, which were covert outdoor spaces created by African-Americans for sacred and secular cultural activities. The event is free, but RSVP and get additional details on Facebook. The University of Chicago Arts Incubator is located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd, just off the Green Line.

Comfort Station Potluck: Autotelic Studios

Stop by the Comfort Station, located in Logan Square at 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave, and visit the artists from Autotelic Studios for homemade pickles, vegan black bean brownies and conversations with friends and neighbors. The event is held today, August 3rd from 11AM-1PM. Please bring food that is ready to serve and all utensils which accompany your treat. Plates, bowls and towels will be provided. Free; donations welcomed.


Fiesta Del Sol

Fiesta del Sol, an annual fundraising event organized by the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, runs this weekend from July 31 to Aug. 3 at 1400 W. Cermak Rd. The biggest Latino festival in the Midwest, activities include futbol, Latino art, carnival rides, rollercoasters, and food from dozens of taquerias, hurache vendors, and more. The festival is open from 11am to 10pm today. Free.

Fiesta Del Sol

Fiesta del Sol, an annual fundraising event organized by the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, runs this weekend from July 31 to Aug. 3 at 1400 W. Cermak Rd. The biggest Latino festival in the Midwest, activities include futbol, Latino art, carnival rides, rollercoasters, and food from dozens of taquerias, hurache vendors, and more. The festival is open 11am to 11pm today. Free.

Amber Ginsburg & Katie Hargrave @ Roman Susan Gallery

"How to un-make an American Quilt" is an interactive performance between Ginsberg and Hargrave where they will deconstruct a hand-made quilt in the Roman Susan gallery space. The piece begins tonight, August 1st, from 6PM-9PM and will be on view through August 17th. There are several more un-make sessions which include: Sundays--August 3, August 10, August 17 11AM-2PM. Roman Susan is located on 1224 West Loyola Avenue. The sessions are free and open to the public. Participation is welcome!

Fiesta Del Sol @ Pilsen Neighborhood

Fiesta del Sol, an annual fundraising event organized by the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, runs this weekend from July 31 to Aug. 3 at 1400 W. Cermak Rd. The biggest Latino festival in the Midwest, activities include futbol, Latino art, carnival rides, rollercoasters, and food from dozens of taquerias, hurache vendors, and more. The festival is open from 5 to 10pm tonight. Free.

Artist Talk @ Comfort Station

Today is the last day of the exhibition Cool and Dark, featuring the work of Eleanor Ray, Greta Waller and Gwendolyn Zabicki, at the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., and Waller and Zabicki discuss their work and the exhibition at 2pm. Free.

The Mapping Sessions Finale @ Mana Contemporary

A must-see event is happening at Mana Contemporary tonight on the fourth floor featuring the Honey Pot Performance. An interactive, DJ hosting, dance party will be occurring from 7:30-11 PM. Mana Contemporary is a studio space for artists located in Pilsen at 2233 S. Throop St. The event is free and open to the public, however, it is suggested that you RSVP.

Pamela Staker Open Studio

A creator of abstract paintings and works of paper, Pamela Staker, has a studio located on 1830 South Canalport Avenue (East Pilsen). July 25th, 26th and 27th mark the time slots that Staker will open her studio from the public.
Here is the schedule for the three days:

Friday, July 25, 2014 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Saturday, July 26, 2014 - 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Sunday, July 27, 2014 - 12:00pm to 3:00pm

Phantoms in the Dirt @ MOCP

The Museum of Contemporary Photography is hosting an opening reception tonight, July 24th starting at 5 PM. Several of the exhibiting artists will be there to discuss their photographic works. MOCP is located at 600 S. Michigan Avenue and is free to the public.

Cultural Conversations with Caroline Picard @ Mana Contemporary

High Concept Laboratories, an interdisciplinary platform and non profits organization, is hosting a lecture in their location at Mana Contemporary. Caroline Picard, a Chicago artist, curator and writer, will be having a conversation and discussion regarding her curatorial work abroad and her future practices here in Chicago. The event is free, however HCL urges those interested to RSVP. Mana Contemporary is located at 2233 S Throop St. in Pilsen. The event starts at 7PM today, July 22nd.


Writing In The Margins @ Zhou B Art Center

Sixty Inches from Center presents Writing In The Margins: Who Do You Write For?, a panel discussion on the relationship between writers, artists, and their various audiences, tonight from 6 to 8pm at the Zhou B Arts Center, 1029 W. 35th St. The panel will include visual journalist and media arts educator Sophia Nahli, Honey Pot Performance cofounder Felicia Holman, artist Jenny Lam, poet and author Olivia Cole, and writer Diana Pando. Moderated by Jennifer Patiño Cervantes, writer and Director of Development for Sixty Inches From Center. Admission is $5.

Artisan Market @ Gallery 19

Beginning at 9am today, Gallery 19 (1967 1/2 W. Montrose Ave.) hosts a collection of craftspeople in their first Artisan Market. Alapash Terrariums, Real.Soaps, Johanna Winter Harper, and more will be displaying their wares until 4pm. Concurrently, "Brunch with the Artists" runs from 9am to 10:30am, with artisans participating in the market as well as those featured in Gallery 19.

"Two Rocks Do Not Make a Duck" Opening Reception @ Lvl3

Milano Chow, Sofia Leiby, and Malin Gabriella Nordin will be the artists exhibited at the Lvl3 gallery space located at 1542 N. Mikwaukee Ave on the 3rd floor. The show explores layering and the conceptual notion of surface. Tonight's reception beings at 6pm and is free and open to the public; the show will run until Aug. 17.

Artisan Market @ Gallery 19

Beginning at 9 a.m., Gallery 19 (1967 1/2 W Montrose Ave) hosts a collection of craftspeople in their first Artisan Market. Alapash Terrariums, Real.Soaps, Johanna Winter Harper, and more will be displaying their wares until 4 p.m.

Contained and TextTextText Opening Receptions @ Woman Made Gallery

Woman Made Gallery, 685 N. Milwaukee Ave., is hosting two opening receptions tonight, starting at 6pm. The exhibitions are entitled, "texttexttext" and "Contained". Woman Made Gallery is free and open to the public.

2nd Fridays @ Chicago Arts District

The July edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in Pilsen will feature work by multi-discipline artists in 30+ creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as PilsenEast). You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.

Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building

The Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., holds an open studio night from 5 to 9pm tonight, as part of the Chicago Cultural Mile Second Fridays event. Free.

Andrew Zimmerman and Fear no ART @ Taste of Chicago

Sepia's Andrew Zimmerman, aided by students of Washburn Culinary Institute, serves a multi-course meal tonight at 6:30pm the Taste of Chicago (Grant Park, 500 S. Columbus Dr.) as part of the Pure Leaf Celebrity du Jour Dining Series, which will take place onsite in an air-conditioned tent (whoo!). If you have to venture into the swarm of turkey legs that is the Taste of Chicago, this event is worth the $45 ticket. Additionally, actor George Wendt and others will be in attendance for a live chat that will be streamed online during the meal as part of the Fear No ART's Dinner Party series.

Mike Nudelman & Sarah Hicks @ Hyde Park Art Center

The educational establishment and exhibition space Hyde Park Art Center is holding two opening receptions tonight starting at 5pm. Nudelman, working with ballpoint pens, and Hicks, which will be displaying her ceramics pieces, are both exhibiting together at the art center. In addition to this event there is another opening reception, entitled "Figurative vs. Abstract" which will also begin at 5pm. Both events are free and open to the public. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave., next to Bridgeport Coffee.


Testimony Art Opening @ Logan Center for the Arts

The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, located in Hyde Park has a new exhibition entitled, Testimony, opening tonight at 6 PM until August 30th. David Boykin, Krista Franklin, and Andres L. Hernandez are the three artists featured in the show. The Logan Center is located 915 E 60th Street and is open Monday-Sunday.

Degenerate Art Gallery : 1 Year Anniversary Show

The Degenerate Art Gallery, 5554 N. Winthrop Ave., is celebrating their first year operating as a creative space tonight from 7 to 11pm. The event will be filled with several artists and celebrations. Free.

Tenth Annual Printer's Ball @ Hubbard Street Lofts

Spudnik Press Cooperative is thrilled to announce the 10th annual Printers Ball: Chatter. The 10th annual celebration of literary culture and printmaking will be held at the Hubbard Street Lofts, 1821 W. Hubbard St., offering a robust schedule of performances, live printmaking demos, exhibitions, and food and drink tastings. This year's festivities will run from 4 to 9pm, and includes outdoor entertainment with a DJ set with Odd Obsession and a beer garden hosted by Maria's Packaged Goods. Admission is free.

Jay Ryan Opening @ Rotofugi

Poster artist Jay Ryan celebrates the opening of Better Days Ahead, an exhibition of new paintings at Rotofugi Gallery, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 7 to 10pm.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs June 27-29 on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, pop-up galleries, performance art, family activities and food from local bars and restaurants. The festival runs from 5 to 10pm tonight. $5 donation requested.

Mindy Rose Schwartz Artist Talk @ The Lillstreet Art Center

The Lillstreet Art Center is hosting a lecture series located at the Lillstreet Loft at 4437 Ravenswood Avenue. Tonight from 7 PM - 8 PM, Mindy Rose Schwartz, a Chicago sculptor will be giving an artist talk at the loft. All lectures are free and open to the public!

Version Festival 14

The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today's festivities include the Mini-Market craft fair from noon to 6pm at Mana Contemporary Chicago (2233 S. Throop St.), curated by Renegade; the Placemakers Summit, featuring discussions of creative placemaking, urban innovation and more, also at Mana Contemporary from 12:30 to 6pm; and the Never the Same Artists' Congress Potluck in Palmisano Park, 2700 S. Halsted St., at 5:30pm. All of today's events are free.

Ed Paschke Art Center Opens to Public

The Ed Paschke Art Center in Jefferson Park opens to the public today, which would have been the 75th birthday of the artist, who was a member of the Hairy Who/Chicago Imagists. The center, located at 5415 W. Higgins Rd. near the Jefferson Park Transit Center on the Blue Line, will be open 10am to 7pm seven days a week. Admission will be free, in keeping with Paschke's desire for his art to be accessible to everyone. For more information, call 312-533-4911 or visit the website.

Starving Artist @ Chicago Artists Coalition

Chicago Artists Coalition, 217 N. Carpenter St., hosts its annual Starving Artist event, which pairs artists with chefs in creative collaboration. This year, Starving Artists features installations by Luftwerk, Diana Gabriel, Alexandra Noe and Edyta Stepien; dishes by chefs Matthias Merges of Yusho, Kyle Petersen of Fulton Market Kitchen, Chris Pandel of Bristol and Balena, and Jared Van Camp of Element Collective; and cocktails by Revae Schneider of Femme du Coupe, Brian Sturguleski of Fulton Market Kitchen and Jason Brown of Kinmont. The event runs from 7 to 11pm. Tickets are $250.

Version Festival 14

The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today's festivities include the Mini-Market craft fair from noon to 6pm at Mana Contemporary Chicago (2233 S. Throop St.), curated by Renegade; the Placemakers Summit, featuring discussions of creative placemaking, urban innovation and more, also at Mana Contemporary from 12:30 to 6pm; and the Version Music Showcase at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 8pm to midnight. All of today's events are free.

Old Town Art Fair

The 65th annual Old Town Art Fair runs from 10am to 6pm Saturday and today in the Old Town Triangle (Wisconsin Avenue on the north, Orleans Street and Lincoln Park West, Menomonee Avenue on the south, plus a little bit of North Park Avenue north of Willow -- here's a PDF map). View and purchase the work of more than 250 artists, enjoy live music and food, and maybe go on the neighborhood garden walk. $7 donation requested.

Our Public Space: Who Owns It, Who Shapes It & Who Benefits From It @ Lathrop Homes

The second day of Our Public Space brings together designer Quilian Riano and artist John Preus for a workshop engaging the site at Lathrop Homes, 2000 W. Diversey Ave. The event runs from 10am to 4pm, with a lunch break at noon. Free.

Our Public Space: Who Owns It, Who Shapes It, and Who Benefits From It @ Hyde Park Art Center

Dilettante Studios, MAS Context, and the Hyde Park Art Center present Our Public Space, a two-day program of lectures and a workshop presented by national and international architects, designers, and artists addressing public space and the built environment. Today's events will run from 1pm-5pm at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave.

Old Town Art Fair

The 65th annual Old Town Art Fair runs from 10am to 6pm today and Sunday in the Old Town Triangle (Wisconsin Avenue on the north, Orleans Street and Lincoln Park West, Menomonee Avenue on the south, plus a little bit of North Park Avenue north of Willow -- here's a PDF map). View and purchase the work of more than 250 artists, enjoy live music and food, and maybe go on the neighborhood garden walk. $7 donation requested.

Trans Pacific Partnership & NAFTA at 20 @ Uri-Eichen

Trans Pacific Partnership and NAFTA at 20, featuring hand-painted banners by the Artists Rapid Response Team (ARRT!), opens with a reception from 6 to 10pm tonight at Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted St. At 8pm there will be a panel discussion on NAFTA and the Trans-Pacific Partnership featuring Socialist Worker labor editor Lee Sustar, professor Ron Baiman and Carson Starkey of Illinois Fair Trade Coalition. Free.

Systems 83 @ Subterra

Systems 83, an exhibition of Chicago graffiti history presented by Three Hearts Club and the X-Men, is at Subterra, 350 N. Ogden Ave., Lower Level, from 1 to 8pm today. Programming includes a screening of the documentary Style Wars followed by a Q&A with hip hop artist Skeme, a tribute to Brooks Golden and more.

International Photobooth Convention @ A&A Studios

Photobooth.net hosts the International Photobooth Convention June 6-8 at A&A Studios, 350 N. Ogden Ave. Attend panels, check out vintage and contemporary photobooth photos and art, and take plenty of photos in one of the many photobooths on hand. The convention runs from 10am to 5:30pm today. Tickets for the weekend are $18 for adults, $12 for students and kids, free for kids under 6.

Systems 83 @ Project Logan

Systems 83, an exhibition of Chicago graffiti history presented by Three Hearts Club and the X-Men, hosts a painting jam and barbecue at Project Logan, the graffiti wall on the alley across from the East Room, 2828 W. Medill Ave., starting around 11am. There's an afterparty at the Owl, 2521 N. Milwaukee Ave.

57th Street Art Fair @ Hyde Park

Saturday, June 7th 11 AM-6 PM and Sunday June 8th 10AM-5PM, Hyde Park is hosting their annual 57th Street Art Fair. This will mark the 67th year that Hyde Park has been hosting this event. The fair is located between Kenwood and Woodlawn. Admission is free!

International Photobooth Convention @ A&A Studios

Photobooth.net hosts the International Photobooth Convention June 6-8 at A&A Studios, 350 N. Ogden Ave. Attend panels, check out vintage and contemporary photobooth photos and art, and take plenty of photos in one of the many photobooths on hand. The convention runs from 10am to 7:30pm today. Tickets for the weekend are $18 for adults, $12 for students and kids, free for kids under 6.

International Photobooth Convention @ A&A Studios

Photobooth.net hosts the International Photobooth Convention June 6-8 at A&A Studios, 350 N. Ogden Ave. Attend panels, check out vintage and contemporary photobooth photos and art, and take plenty of photos in one of the many photobooths on hand. Tonight from 6 to 10pm is the opening party. Tickets for the convention are $18 for adults, $12 for students and kids, free for kids under 6.

Systems 83 @ East Room

Systems 83, an exhibition of Chicago graffiti history presented by Three Hearts Club and the X-Men, kicks off at the East Room, 2828 W. Medill Ave., tonight from 6pm to 2am. No cover, 21+

Josef Koudelka @ Art Institute of Chicago

Josef Koudelka, a world-renowned photographer, will be filling the galleries of the Art Institute with his exhibition entitled, Nationality Doubtful. Koudelka's black and white photographs will be featured from Saturday, Jun 7th until Sunday, September 14th at 111 South Michigan Avenue. There is a member preview June 5-6.

Art Popup Event @ Chicago Theatre Alley

The Chicago Loop Alliance will transform the Chicago Theatre alley into an urban celebration today from 5-10 p.m. (The location is Benton Place; enter on State between Lake and Randolph.) The free pop-up event is the second of five events featuring music, art and performance. Art for the event is being curated by King Art Collective, with music by The Galaxie and DJ Madrid. RSVP in advance to receive a free drink ticket at the event; wine and beer available for purchase. The event is presented in partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago, in connection with the exhibit, Magritte: The Mystery of the Ordinary, 1926-1938, which opens June 24.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo runs Saturday and today from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend a full day of panels, check out the vendor floor, and meet indie comic artists and writers galore. Free.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo runs today and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend a full day of panels, check out the vendor floor, and meet indie comic artists and writers galore. Free.

Adventure Time Story Artists @ DePaul School of Cinema

"Adventure Time" story artists Jesse Moynihan, Michael DeForge and Sam Alden talk about their creative process at DePaul CDM Theatre, 14 E. Jackson St., lower level room 105, tonight at 6pm as part of the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo. Free.

Pivot Arts Festival : Art Meets Science

From May 28th until June 14th, the Pivot Arts Festival will be hosting a variety of performances which focus on gender and sexuality, the intersection between art and science, environmental issues and many more themes at various times throughout the day. Check out the calendar for times, locations and pricing.

Mapping Session with Honey Pot Performers @ MANA Contemporary

Are you into Punk & New Wave? Even better, are you into groovin' and dancin'? The wonderful Honey Pot Performance will be hosting a free monthly interactive/music themed event that reflects the Chicago music scene. The month of May is Punk & New Wave and will be hosted at MANA Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., tonight at 7:30pm. You can check out more information on Facebook. The event is free and BYOB. Bring a dancing buddy.

Chicago Fire Art of Futbol Show

The Chicago Fire Soccer Club will hold their fourth annual Art of Futbol tonight from 6 to 8pm at Prairie Production Studio, 1314 W. Randolph St. This one-of-a-kind art exhibition features local artists and their original work depicting the beautiful game of soccer. Guests have the opportunity to mingle with artists and Fire players while enjoying music, drinks, and light appetizers. Tickets are available here. The event is 21+.

¿Qué Horas Son? @ Harbee's Liquors

Afro-Latino funk night ¿Qué Horas Son? at Harbee's Liquors, 1345 W. 18th St., this month doubles as a fundraiser for the Friends of Whittier School. The lineup features resident DJ AfroQBano, Charly García of (((SONORAMA))) and FMEL, David Chavez of Sound Culture and more, plus artwork from the BARRIO TO BARRIO Community Art Show. 21+

Kieran McGonnell Round Trip Ticket Exhibit

The Ugly Stepsister Gallery, located on 1750 S Union Avenue in Pilsen, will be hosting the first exhibition of Kieran McGonnell since his passing on May 9th from 6-8:30 PM. The exhibition runs through July 6 and is open and free to the public.

2nd Fridays @ Chicago Arts District

2nd Fridays Gallery Night is a monthly showcase of 30+ creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as PilsenEast). You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted St., between 16th St. and Cermak Rd. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.

Lost & Found: The Search for Harry & Edna @ Intuit Gallery

Intuit Gallery presents a free opening reception Lost and Found: The Search for Harry and Edna. Lost and Found is a unique exhibition of photography that tells the story of a social media search party attempting to discover the identities of an anonymous couple who traveled the world more than 50 years ago. 5 - 8 p.m. 756 N Milwaukee

SAIC Graduate and Undergraduate Festival

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Graduate and Undergraduate Film, Video, New Media, Animation, and Sound Festival is today, Wednesday May 7th, Thursday May 8th and Friday May 9th. The festival will begin all three days at 4:30PM at the Gene Siskel Film Center located at 164 N. State Street. Admission is free.

2014 MFA Photography Exhibition @ Columbia College

May 6-17 marks the beginning of the MFA Photo exhibition for Columbia College. The Glass Curtain Gallery located at, 1104 S Wabash Avenue, will be featuring six photographers in the Masters program.

Randolph St. Market Festival

Today, May 24th and tomorrow, May 25th, the Randolph Street Market Festival will be occurring on 350 Block West Randolph and 1340 W. Washington Street. The festival is an urban antique market which features fashion, art, treasures, as well as food, drinks and music. General admission is $8, $10 at the gate.

Revolution Craft Show @ Salvage One

Revolution Craft Show will hold its first event at Salvage One, 1840 W. Hubbard St., from 12pm-5pm on Sunday. Locally organized and curated by two artists, Revolution Craft Show is on a "mission is to give artists and the public a fun and affordable way to interact and hopefully sell their work." There will be music, food trucks, and great art for sale. Free and open to the public.

Encounters at the Edge of the Forest @ Gallery 400

Encounters at the Edge of the Forest, and exhibition curated by the Exhibition Practices class of the Museum and Exhibition Studies program at the UIC School of Art and Art History, opens tonight at Gallery 400, 400 S. Peoria St., with a reception from 5:30 to 8pm. More details on Facebook.

Goreyesque @ Loyola University Museum of Art

Join online literary journal, Goreyesque, for a night of wicked fun at the Edward Gorey exhibition at the Loyola University Museum of Art, 820 N. Michigan Ave. Hosted by Goreyesque founders and editors, including Todd Summar and Ken Gerleve, with readings by Joe Meno, Adam McOmber, and other artists and authors. Attendees are encouraged to walk through Elegant Enigmas: The Art of Edward Gorey and G is for Gorey--C is for Chicago: The Collection of Thomas Michalak exhibits after the readings.

GASP! Fair @ Columbia College

Columbia College hosts the Green Art & Social Practice Fair, showcasing Columbia artists "exploring the intersections of science, the humanities and art," today from 2 to 6pm in the Papermaker's Garden at 8th and Wabash and the first floor lobby at 1104 S. Wabash Ave. The show will feature work by Dani Beutell, Jillian Bruschera, Jack Gruszczynski, Jesus Iniguez, Megan Pitcher, Leo Selvaggio and Levi Sherman.

Steven Szegedi Collage Exhibition @ Harold Washington Library

Long time artist, Steven Szegedi, AKA Vaucanson's Workshop is introducing his work to a wider audience with his exhibition, Sergeant Vaucanson's Raree-Show, at the Harold Washington Library, 400 S State Street (eighth floor), from today until May 30th. Steven has a studio at the Bridgeport Art Center as well and will be having open studios in the near future.

75th Birthday @ The Hyde Park Art Center

Today, April 13th, marks the 75th birthday of the Hyde Park Art Center. The art center, located at, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue will be hosting an event from 1:00pm to 5:00pm where visitors can mingle with the artists, explore The Beast and listen to experimental music by New Material.

Kieran McGonnell @ Ugly Step Sister Art Gallery

The late artist, Kieran McGonnell is having a three-month long exhibition entitled, Round Trip Ticket, in Pilsen at the Ugly Step Sister Art Gallery. The opening reception is tonight from 6-10pm at 1750 S. Union Ave. Event is free and open to the public.

Tropical Depression @ LVL3

Join the contemporary art gallery, LVL3, at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave for their opening reception of Tropical Depression. The event is free and open to the public today from 6-10pm.

PoDrXd Opening @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

PoDrXd, exhibition of work from the Portland State University's MFA in Contemporary Art Practice/Studio program, opens with a reception tonight at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219-21 S. Morgan St., from 7 to 11pm. Free.

International Vintage Poster Fair

Saturday and today, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. The show is open from 11am to 6pm today; admission is $15.

Harts for Arts @ LVL3

LVL3 art gallery in Wicker Park, 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave, will be presenting their 5th annual art auction and benefit raffle today for the non profit Arts of Life. The event runs from 6pm-10pm; bidding ends at 9:30. All of the presented artwork start at $30, raffle tickets are 1 for $3 or 2 for $5.

Women's History Month @ Chicago Public Library

The Chicago Public Library is hosting a Women's History Month art exhibition presenting sisters, Jessie Winslow and Rachel Winslow. Jessie will be giving an artist talk today at 2pm at the Lincoln Park branch, 1150 W Fullerton Ave. Event is free and open to the public.

International Vintage Poster Fair

Today through Sunday, March 30, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. The show is open from 10am to 7pm today; admission is $15.

Art Institute After Dark

The Art Institute hosts its After Dark event in the Modern Wing, 159 E. Monroe St., tonight from 9pm to midnight. Enjoy complimentary appetizers with a cash bar featuring mixology by Adam Seger, view the Christopher Wool exhibition, and more. Admission is $25 adults, $20 members and students, and $15 for Evening Associates. Advance tickets are sold out, but a limited number will be available at the door.

International Vintage Poster Fair

Today through Sunday, March 30, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. There's a preview party tonight from 5 to 9pm; admission is $20.

RAW Chi Town @ Bottom Lounge

The local "chapter" of RAW:natural born artists helps kickstart spring at Bottom Lounge this Thursday with RAW Chi Town Presents: MOSAIC. The celebration will feature over 40 local artists, as well as a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist.

Hosted by Victoria Messina, with music by Deejay Saccs. Event is 18+. Cocktail attire encouraged. $15 pre-sale, $20 at the door. You can get tickets here.

Visting Artist: Jennifer Doyle @ SAIC

The Art Institute of Chicago has invited Jennifer Doyle, Professor of English and Co-Chair of the LGBIT Studies Minor at University of California to speak about her newest book, "Hold It Against Me: Difficulty and Emotion in Contemporary Art". The event is this evening at 6pm located at 280 S. Columbus Drive at the SAIC Columbus Auditorium. For more information call 312-899-5185 or email events@saic.edu

"M"... is for Murder @ The Peanut Gallery

Artist, Corinne Halbert, will have a solo exhibition at the Peanut Gallery tonight from 5-9pm. The exhibition "M"...is for Murder features a maniacal mouse named "Mikee" and his beloved "Minee". The event, located at, 1000 N. California Ave, is free and open to the public.

Spring Artisan Trunk Show

It's Spring! So shake off your winter blues and head to Blue Buddha Boutique (1127 W Granville Avenue) today from 11am to 6pm to shop for pretty things. You'll be able to find everything from art, to jewelery, to messenger bags, to candles, soaps, and more. All items are made by local artists and makers.

Live Music Performance @ Roman Susan Gallery

Tonight the Roman Susan Gallery, located at 1224 W Loyola Avenue, will be featuring the musician and performer Steven Snowden. His performances include the vibraphone and electronic sounds sampled from 1970s pay phones around the US. The event is free and open to the public; doors open at 7:30pm, performance begins at 8pm.

St. Patricks Day Scavenger Hunt @ Lomography Chicago

Calling all film photographers! Today at 12pm the Lomography Embassy Chicago store located at 1422 N. Milwaukee Ave will be hosting a scavenger hunt which includes a 3 hour shooting excursion. 21+ for bar hopping. Prepay $20/ Day of registration $25

Busy Beaver Zine Release @ I Am Logan Square Gallery

Join Busy Beaver Button Company at the I Am Logan Square Gallery, 2644-1/2 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 6 to 9pm for the release of "A Very Brief History of Buttons," a zine written by Busy Beaver owner Christen Carter and production manager Joel Carter. This will also be the closing party for Busy Beavers, the button-inspired art show in the space. Bring quarters for Button-O-Matic button machines, too.

I Heart Core! @ Matilda's

Interested in live music, dancing and visual art? The Core Project is an arts company which focuses on the art of storytelling. The event is tonight from 7:30 to 10:30, at 3101 N Sheffield Ave. Light snacks and drinks are provided. Prepay for $8 or pay $10 at the door tonight!

Post Family Party @ Comfort Station

The Post Family will be moving into their new home at Comfort Station (2579 N Milwaukee Ave.) this month and are kicking off a month of events for "Family Friends" and new friends alike. Join them today from 2:30 to 6:30 for a public collage and doodle party with tasty comfort food provided by Plenty Grocery and Deli. The event is free, and open to adults and children.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Building

Join the party at the historic Flat Iron Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave, for tons of open artist studios and living spaces. The event takes place tonight from 6pm until 10pm. There is a suggested donation of $5.

Opening Reception @ Jackson Junge Gallery

Entitled, A Symphony of Realism and Abstraction, the Jackson Junge Gallery has a free exhibition running from March 7-April 27th. Located at 1389 N Milwaukee Ave, from 6-10pm. General gallery hours are 11-8 and Sundays 12-5.

Typeforce 5 @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Firebelly Design and Public Media Institute present Typeforce 5, the fifth annual exhibition of contemporary typography, design and lettering, at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 6:30 to 11pm. Free.

Pamela Bannos @ MCA

Artist and Northwestern professor Pamela Bannos explores the history of the land the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., concludes her series of four gallery talks in connection with the exhibition The Way of the Shovel: Art as Archaeology, today at 3pm with one on the history of the museum itself. Free with museum admission.

A Decade of You Are Beautiful Release @ Galerie F

You Are Beautiful marks 10 years of inspirational stickers with a book, A Decade of You Are Beautiful, which gets its official release tonight at Galerie F, 2381 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 7 to 9pm. You Are Beautiful creator Matthew Hoffman remounts an installation in the gallery, along with art by more than 40 artists. RSVP on Facebook.

Day Job @ LivingRoom

The painter Dmitry Samarov, who chronicled his experience driving cabs for a living in Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab, has an exhibit titled "Living in Chicago" on display at LivingRoom, 1530 W. Superior St. In conjunction with the exhibit, he is curating an event called: Day Job, a night of stories about the places we go whether we want to or not. Featuring Melina Ausikaitis, Martha Bayne, Mairead Case, Robin Cline, Sarah Frier, Kevin McDonnough, Chris Schoen and Levi Stahl. This event is free, and starts at 8:30pm. For more information visit the Facebook event page.

Ladydrawers: Our Fashion Year & Other Projects

The Ladydrawers Comics Collective shows off what it's been up to so far in their project Our Fashion Year, its in-depth series of monthly comics reports on gender and labor concerns throughout the international garment and sex trades, as well as other projects tonight from 6 to 10pm at Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted St. Details on Facebook.

Artgasm @ Sol Cafe

Sol Cafe, 1615 W. Howard St., hosts Artgasm, a "naughty pre-V-Day art show," tonight from 8 to 11pm. The event will include burlesque and bellydancing, a leatherwear catwalk and X-rated visual and performance art -- plus toys for sale by the Pleasure Chest and music spun by DJ License. Tickets are $10. 21+

"For the Love of Perception" @ Hubbard Street Lofts

The Hubbard Street Lofts, 1821 W. Hubbard St., presents actor, model, and visual artist Ben Lane's "For the Love of Perception," tonight from 6pm-10pm. Artists and art lovers alike will enjoy an evening of exhibits, music, workshops, spoken word by K-Love, as well as view Lane's newest art series, Love Over Hate. Tickets are $7-$20; for more information, visit the website.

Survival, Spirit, Dreams, Nightmares @ UIMA

The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, 2320 W. Chicago Ave., celebrates the opening of Survival, Spirit, Dreams, Nightmares, an exhibition of works by René Hugo Arceo, Peter Dallos, Mark Nelson and Yohanan Petrovsky-Shtern, with a reception today from 2pm to 5pm. Admission is free.

First Fridays @ MCA

The Hideout curates First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight from 6 to 10pm. The theme is Love is Love, and all your favorite Hideout regulars will be there: Soup and Bread, Write Club, the Interview Show, John Langford and Sally Timms, the Revelettes and many more. Tickets are $14 in advance, $18 at the door; it's $10 for MCA members. 21+

Chinese New Year Celebration @ Daley Center

Kickoff celebration for Chinese New Year, featuring food, dance and more. Happening at the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington. Beginning at 12 pm.

RAW: Chicago Pixels @ Bottom Lounge

RAW: Chicago presents Pixels, a showcase of more than 40 local artists and performers, tonight at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., at 7pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

Busy Beavers @ I Am Logan Square Gallery

Busy Beaver Button Co. presents the exhibition Busy Beavers, featuring artwork by the button company's staff, tonight from 6 to 9pm at the I Am Logan Square Gallery, 2644½ N. Milwaukee Ave. More details on Facebook. Free.

Art Spiegelman's Wordless! @ Logan Center

The Logan Center for the Arts at University of Chicago, 915 E. 60th St., presents Wordless!, a collaboration between Pulitzer-winning cartoonist Art Spiegelman and jazz composer Phillip Johnston that combines slides, talk, film, and live music, in two performances today at 3pm and 8pm. Tickets are $20, $10 for students.

Art and Appetite: American Painting, Culture and Cuisine @ Art Institute

The Art and Appetite exhibit explores interpretations of eating in America, from celebrations to critiques. The exhibit is held at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., and located in the museum's Regenstein Hall. Admission to the Art Institute is $17 for students and seniors and $23 for adults. Children under the age of 14 are admitted for free. The museum opens every day at 10:30am, with the exhibit running until Jan. 27.

Artists & Ales @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Artists & Ales, a celebration of craft beer and the label art that surrounds it, is at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219-21 S. Morgan St., from 3 to 7pm today. Check out the art and enjoy samples of beers from For 4 Hands, Half Acre, Pipeworks, Solemn Oath, 3 Floyds and more, paired with apps. Attendees also receive a copy of Mash Tun Journal. Tickets are $25 in advance. Proceeds of the event benefit the Public Media Institute. 21+

Pamela Bannos @ MCA

Artist and Northwestern professor Pamela Bannos explores the history of the land the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., continues her series of four gallery talks in connection with the exhibition The Way of the Shovel: Art as Archaeology, today at 3pm with one on the museum's Armory years. Free with museum admission.

Bill Rauhauser Opening @ Carl Hammer

Carl Hammer Gallery, 740 N. Wells St., celebrates the opening of Street Beat, an exhibition of urban street photography from mid-20th century Detroit by Bill Rauhauser, tonight from 6 to 8pm. Free.

Snowday Portraits: Chicagoans Found in the Polar Vortex @ The Defibrillator Gallery

The Defibrillator Gallery, 1136 N. Milwaukee, presents Saverio Truglia's Snowday Portraits: Chicagoans Found in the Polar Vortex, tonight from 6pm-11:30pm. Curated by Scott Thompson, the exhibit, part of "A Personal Project Show," features 16 diverse artists, including Thompson, Flint Chaney, and others, all "baring their souls" via photography and visual art. Free. For more information, visit Facebook.

Pilipinas Jam @ Empty Bottle

Pilipinas Jam, a concert benefiting Typhoon Haiyan relief efforts in the Philippines, kicks off at 1pm today at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. The lineup features David Wycoco, The Heroic Black, Magellan's Killer, Sama Sama Project, Bagwis Collective and Faceless Soul. The event will also feature artwork and photography by Agustina Diez Dierra and Maggie Rife Ponce of The Connection Art Project. Tickets are $15. 21+

An Exploration of Transmigration Closing @ Peanut Gallery

Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., hosts a closing reception for An Exploration of Transmigration, an exhibition of work by Randi Drozd, tonight from 5 to 9pm. Free.

The Second City That Never Sleeps

They say laughter is the best medicine, but laughter also can be great for raising money for a great cause during the holiday season. The 24-hour marathon of laughs for all ages begins at 6pm in the Second City's E.T.C. stage and will feature Portlandia star Fred Armisen, Internet cat sensation Lil Bub and musicians Bob Mould, Bonnie Prince Billy, Sally Timms and Chicago's J.C. Brooks & The Uptown Sound. There's also word of a Veruca Salt reunion, its first in 15 years. Tickets are $20 and are available at the theater (1608 North Wells Street).

Quimby's Holiday Sketch Gift-ravaganza

Quimby's hosts six local comic artists today from 12:30pm to 6:30pm. Come on down and get a hand-drawn gift for your friends or family! Full details, including a list of participating artists, available at the Quimby's Website. Quimby's: 1854 W. North Avenue. (773) 342-0910.

Pamela Bannos @ MCA

Artist and Northwestern professor Pamela Bannos explores the history of the land the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., continues her series of four gallery talks in connection with the exhibition The Way of the Shovel: Art as Archaeology, today at 3pm with one on Cap Streeter and the creation of Streeterville. Free with museum admission.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show and Sale runs Thursday through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 8th floor. More than 600 juried artists, craftspeople and designers from across North America are showcasing their imaginative, handmade creations, for sale at a wide range of price points. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. For more information, see the website.

One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show and Sale runs Thursday through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 8th floor. More than 600 juried artists, craftspeople and designers from across North America are showcasing their imaginative, handmade creations, for sale at a wide range of price points. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. For more information, see the website.

First Fridays @ MCA

First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., is from 6 to 10pm tonight. This month's theme is "Summoning a New Queer Reality" and is co-curated by queer dance party Chances Dances. Tickets are $14 in advance, $18 at the door; $10 for members either way. 21+

One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show and Sale runs Thursday through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 8th floor. More than 600 juried artists, craftspeople and designers from across North America are showcasing their imaginative, handmade creations, for sale at a wide range of price points. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. For more information, see the website.

One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart

The annual One of a Kind Show and Sale runs Thursday through Sunday at the Merchandise Mart, 8th floor. More than 600 juried artists, craftspeople and designers from across North America are showcasing their imaginative, handmade creations, for sale at a wide range of price points. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online. A portion of all ticket sales will benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. For more information, see the website.

Spudnik Press Holiday Art Sale

Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard St., hosts its annual holiday art sale tonight from 6 to 10pm. Browse fine art prints, posters, cards, books, zines and other locally made stuff from more than 20 artists -- and enjoy a potluck of apps and drinks. Bring a sketchbook and stick around for Drink & Draw, Spudnik's bi-monthly drawing night. Free.

Dietzel: A Retrospective @ Great Lakes Tattoo

Come to opening night of Dietzel: A Retrospective, showcasing the work of tattooist Amund Dietzel. Displayed at the Milwaukee Art Museum earlier this year, the exhibit features traditional American tattoo photos, paintings, and ephemera from the collection of Jon Reiter, tattooer, tattoo historian, biographer and curator, and will be shown in the gallery space of Great Lakes Tattoo (1148 W. Grand Ave.) This exhibit will function as a fundraiser for Reiter, to help offset medical bills. Dietzel tattoos, limited edition prints, t­shirts and books will be available for sale, with all proceeds to benefit Reiter.Come to opening night and enjoy appetizers and refreshments from 5pm-10pm. This exhibit runs through January 5, 2014.

Pay It Forward Party @ Flats Studio

Autotelic {Studios} and Sixty Inches From Center host a party tonight from 7pm to midnight at Flats Studio, 1050 W. Wilson Ave., to celebrate the culmination of Pay It Forward, a collaborative, experimental fundraiser. Enjoy food and drink, music, and an art exhibition curated by Jenny Lam. Admission is $10, and 20% of the proceeds of the party and the fundraiser go to other arts organizations in the community.

SAIC Holiday Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute's annual Holiday Art Sale runs Saturday and today in the ballroom at 112 S. Michigan Ave. Purchase art, clothing, jewelry and more, all made by SAIC students. The show is open from 10am to 5pm today.

One Foot on a Banana Peel @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

One Foot on a Banana Peel, a group exhibition of new works by Alex Bradley Cohen, Austin England, Ben Jensen, Brad Rohloff, Bryan Peterson, Dillon Froelich, Jeffery Kubasak, John F. Malta, Luke Pelletier, Michael Hsiung, Miles Jackson, Nathan Brown, Sean Morris, Sheryo, Suzi Kemp, Teddy Kelly, The Yok, Timothy Olson and Yarrow Slaps, opens at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., with a reception tonight from 7 to 11pm.

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia St., opens the studios tonight from 6 to 10 pm and Saturday from 1 to 5pm. See work by more than 45 artists, plus enjoy complimentary refreshments, live music by Minus One Quintet, and food from the Tamale Spaceship food truck. Free.

SAIC Holiday Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute's annual Holiday Art Sale runs today and Sunday in the ballroom at 112 S. Michigan Ave. Purchase art, clothing, jewelry and more, all made by SAIC students. The show is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Home Decorating Art Spree @ Thompson Center

Illinois Artisans Chicago holds a Home Decorating Art Spree in the atrium of the Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., Thursday and today from 10am to 3:30pm. Browse art, crafts and other gift items from more than 20 local artisans, and see live demos. Free.

Home Decorating Art Spree @ Thompson Center

Illinois Artisans Chicago holds a Home Decorating Art Spree in the atrium of the Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., today and Friday from 10am to 3:30pm. Browse art, crafts and other gift items from more than 20 local artisans, and see live demos. Free.

"Vanishing Neighborhoods" Film Shorts @ Comfort Station

This evening Preservation Chicago, the Chicago Film Archives and Kartemquin Films are screening three short 16mm films documenting Chicago's demolition and change in 1960s and 1970s at Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For additional details about the films and the event, check out the event's Facebook page.

Sarah Morris's Chicago @ MCA

Filmmaker Sarah Morris screens and discusses her film Chicago at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight at 6pm as part of the museum's CITY SELF exhibition. Tickets are $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers or free for students, and can be purchased online or through the box office at 312-397-4010.

Pamela Bannos @ MCA

Artist and Northwestern professor Pamela Bannos explores the history of the land the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., in a series of four gallery talks in connection with the exhibition The Way of the Shovel: Art as Archaeology, beginning today at 3pm with one on 1863 through the Chicago Fire. Free with museum admission.

Cardboard Show @ Bridgeport Art Center

The 11th annual Birdhouse Museum Cardboard Show, curated by Project Onward, opens tonight at the Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St., tonight from 6 to 10pm. View (and purchase) works made on or of cardboard by more than 100 artists. Admission is Free.

Art, Wine and Entertainment @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Pl., hosts "Art, Wine and Entertainment," tonight from 7pm-9pm. This "culinary and visual arts tour of the African Diaspora" will feature live visual art drawings, wine-tasting, music by Afrobeat artists and more. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, call 773-947-0600.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 20th annual SOFA Chicago, an art fair devoted to "Sculpture Objects Functional Art + Design," runs Friday through Sunday in Navy Pier's Festival Hall. Works from nearly 70 galleries from across the US and around the world will be on display. Hours are 11am to 7pm Friday and Saturday, and noon to 6pm today. General admission tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 20th annual SOFA Chicago, an art fair devoted to "Sculpture Objects Functional Art + Design," runs Friday through Sunday in Navy Pier's Festival Hall. Works from nearly 70 galleries from across the US and around the world will be on display. Hours are 11am to 7pm Friday and today and noon to 6pm Sunday. General admission tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

National Sandwich Day @ Duran European Sandwiches

National Sandwich Day takes place on Nov. 3, but West Town's Duran European Sandwiches Cafe, 529 N. Milwaukee Ave., keeps the celebration going all weekend long as a charity fundraiser benefiting Chicago Artists Coalition. On both Saturday and Sunday, 50% of Duran's total profits will be donated to support the organization, which assists local artists and creative entrepreneurship. The Duran space will also transform into a gallery, hosting artwork from some of the city's most recognized geometric abstraction artists. Saturday from 8am to 5pm; Sunday from 9am to 3pm.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The 20th annual SOFA Chicago, an art fair devoted to "Sculpture Objects Functional Art + Desig,n" opens today at Navy Pier's Festival Hall and runs through Sunday. Works from nearly 70 galleries from across the US and around the world will be on display. Hours are 11am to 7pm today and Saturday, and noon to 6pm Sunday. General admission tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Vivian Maier Doc @ Block Cinema

The Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr. in Evanston, screens the BBC documentary "Vivian Maier: Who Took the Nanny's Pictures?" today at 2pm. Pamela Bannos, distinguished senior lecturer at Northwestern and a Maier scholar, will introduce the film. Free. More details here.

Quality Time @ The Post Family

The Post Family, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Ste. 202, celebrates the opening of Quality Time, an exhibition of photography by Debbie Carlos, tonight from 6 to 10pm. View the show as well as a short documentary of Carlos' work and process by Gus Gavino of Middle Mind Projects. The reception coincides with the Hubbard Street Studios Open House.

Filmless Festival

The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents their annual Filmless Festival, featuring audio productions from around the world, special guests talking about their works, and much more. The festival happens at the Old Town School of Folk Music Saturday and today. Tickets to individual screenings and workshops are $12-20; a full festival pass is $75. Full details at the school's website.

Inside the Artist's Kitchen: First Course

Food blog Inside the Artist's Kitchen presents First Course, tonight from 7 to 11pm at the Chicago Urban Art Society, 600 W. Cermak Ave. The one-night exhibition features photos by blog cofounder Michael Soto alongside works by artists Jaclyn Jacunski, Alberto Aguilar, Edra Soto, Sabina Ott, Regin Igloria, Jeroen Nelemans, Deborah Boardman, Mister Junior and Paola Cabal -- and food from all of the artists' recipes. DJ Shardstyle spins, and workshops ranging from bookbinding to burlesque will be taught. Admission is free.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 11th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 11-13 throughout the neighborhood, mostly on or near Clark Street from Winnemac to Hollywood. Events begin at 11am today; see the full schedule for details. Free.

Six Corners to Dedicate Portage Sculpture

A sculpture titled Portage, depicting a Native American preparing to portage a canoe to the next watershed, will be dedicated today at noon. The work by artist Ted Sitting Crow Garner is being installed on the Cicero Avenue side of the Six Corners Sears store at 4730 N. Irving Park Rd. See details on the event and on the Portage Park and Six Corners neighborhood. Free.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 11th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 11-13 throughout the neighborhood, mostly on or near Clark Street from Winnemac to Hollywood. Events begin at 11am today; see the full schedule for details. Free.

Everything Is Practice @ Fulton Street Collective

Fulton Street Collective's artist curators Kyle Fletcher and Steve Juras collaborated to bring "Everything is Practice" into being. Visit the Collective (2000 W. Fulton Street) at 7 PM this Friday (10/11) or Saturday (10/12) for the opening of the exhibit, which explores the repetitive motions and gestures that produce works of art. The exhibit features performances by the Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble.

Recess @ South Side Community Art Center

Recess, a group exhibition that uses images associated with youth and play, opens with a reception this evening from 6 to 9pm at the South Side Community Art Center, 3831 S. Michigan Ave. Curated by Tempestt Hazel, the show features works by Caitlin Cherry, Krista Franklin, James T. Green, David Leggett, Christina A. Long, Cecil McDonald Jr. and avery r. young, paired with works from the Center's collection by Archibald Motley Jr., Al Price, Charles Davis, Rosalie Davis, Jon Jones, William McBride, Eric W. Anderson, Maurice Benson and Ben Bey. The show runs through Nov. 9.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

The 11th annual Andersonville Arts Weekend runs Oct. 11-13 throughout the neighborhood, beginning with the "Night of 100 Parties" tonight at stores on or near Clark Street from Winnemac to Hollywood. See the full schedule for details. Free.

Little Man Pee Pool Party: The Whiz Paddler's Lament

Little Man Pee Pool Party: The Whiz Paddler's Lament, an exhibition curated by Raúl Nude, features 26 interpretations of Mannekin Pis, the famous "peeing boy" public fountain in Brussels. The show opens with a reception tonight from 6 to 10pm at antena, 1755 S. Laflin St. The show runs through Nov. 2.

Meet Your Maker

Meet your Maker is an opportunity for artists and arts administrators to interact and meet face-to-face bridging the divide between them. Join your colleagues from the creative sector to make a dynamic difference in the community. The event is tonight from 6 to 8pm at Fulton Street Collective, 2000 W. Fulton St. Suggested donation of $5 to cover food and refreshments; register to attend.

Openings @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., hosts an opening reception from 3 to 5pm today for its latest exhibitions: A Study in Midwest Appropriation, curated by Michelle Grabner; Light and the Unseen curated by Julie Rudder; Amanda Gentry: Expanding; and Oli Watt: Here comes a regular. Admission is free.

West Town Art Walk

The West Town Art Walk runs Friday through today. Check out works by local artists in shops and galleries along Chicago Avenue from Milwaukee to Western -- PDF map here. The walk runs from 11am to 5pm today. Free.

Ravenswood Art Walk & Detour

The Ravenswood Art Walk runs Saturday and today along the Ravenswood Avenue corridor from Irving Park to Lawrence. Tour artists' studios, galleries, shops and industrial businesses along the route, and enjoy live music on the main stage at Ravenswood and Wilson. The festival is open from 11am to 6pm today. Free.

In addition to the Art Walk, there's also Detour, a craft beer garden and food truck court, open from noon to 7pm today at Ravenswood and Berteau.

West Town Art Walk

The West Town Art Walk runs Friday through Sunday. Check out works by local artists in shops and galleries along Chicago Avenue from Milwaukee to Western -- PDF map here. The walk runs from 11am to 10pm today. Free.

Ravenswood Art Walk & Detour

The Ravenswood Art Walk runs today and Sunday along the Ravenswood Avenue corridor from Irving Park to Lawrence. Tour artists' studios, galleries, shops and industrial businesses along the route, and enjoy live music on the main stage at Ravenswood and Wilson. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Free.

In addition to the Art Walk, there's also Detour, a craft beer garden and food truck court, open from noon to 9pm today at Ravenswood and Berteau.

Ravenswood Art Walk Opening Reception

The Ravenswood Art Walk hosts its opening reception and artist salon tonight from 7:30 to 10:30pm at the Ravenswood Event Center Showroom, 4025 N Ravenswood Ave., featuring local craft beer, wine and food from Ravenswood area restaurants. Bid on a silent auction featuring work from Chicago artisans, and enjoy live music. $10 admission includes a souvenir Art Walk glass.

The Art of Human Rights @ Palette & Chisel

Funds raised through The Art of Human Rights support Heartland Alliance's work to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head, access to health care, the opportunity to earn income to support themselves and their families, and to be treated fairly and with justice.

Reception: Friday, Oct. 4 • 7-10pm
at Palette & Chisel 1012 N Dearborn Chicago, IL 60610

First Fridays @ MCA

Magic is the theme at this month's First Fridays at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight from 6pm to 11pm. See performances by magicians Dennis Watkins, Eugene Burger, David Kovac, Sean Masterson, Alba and Benjamin Barnes, plus short films by Christy LeMaster, psychedelia spun by DJ Plastic Crimewave and live music by Girl Group Chicago. Admission is $14 in advance, $18 at the door; $10 for MCA members.

West Town Art Walk

The West Town Art Walk runs tonight and Saturday. Check out works by local artists in shops and galleries along Chicago Avenue from Milwaukee to Western -- PDF map here. The walk runs from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free.

October Drink & Draw Surrealist Games @ Spudnik Press

There are no teachers and no pretensions at this bi-monthly get together devoted to drawing practices and having a good time. This month's design theme is surrealist games. Theme beverage is Oktoberfest beer. Bring your sketchbook, drawing utensils, and friends. Surrealist games an will be provided. Drink & Draw goes from 7 to 9:30pm at The Annex at Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Suite 303. $5 suggested donation.

Baudelaire in a Box @ The Hideout

Tuesday, October 1st, visit The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) to experience a musical rendition of French poet Charles Baudelaire's Les Fleurs du Mal. Beginning at 9 PM, Ronnie Kuller, Jeff Dorchen and Chris Schoen will sing 15 of Baudelaire's poems as paintings by Dave Buchen scroll alongside. The opening act is 80 Foots Per Minute. There is a $5 suggested donation at the door.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

Celebrate the beginning of Autumn and the end of street festival season, by viewing the work of 60 local artists on Granville at Broadway from 11am to 6pm today. In addition to paintings, photography, and mixed-media, there is also jewelry, printing, pottery, and fabric items. You can relax in the Pop-Up Beer Garden, listen to some music, and see art by local school students, as well. There is a Children's Music Talent Showcase at Noon and a Pet Parade and Costume Contest at 2:15 pm. There is a suggested donation of $5.

A Day in Avondale

A Day in Avondale is a daylong event showcasing the neighborhood's artists and businesses. From 11am to 7pm, see locally made art in more than 30 locations around Avondale, followed by an afterparty at Elastic Arts, 2830 N. Milwaukee Ave., from 7 to 11pm featuring burlesque and live music. All free.

Edgewater Fall Art Fair

Celebrate the beginning of Autumn and the end of street festival season, by viewing the work of 60 local artists on Granville at Broadway from 11am to 6pm today. In addition to paintings, photography, and mixed-media, there is also jewelry, printing, pottery, and fabric items. You can relax in the Pop-Up Beer Garden, listen to some music, and see art by local school students, as well. Today at 2pm there is a Fall Fashion Runway Show.There is a suggested donation of $5.

EXPO CHICAGO @ Navy Pier

The second annual EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, opens for the fall art season at Navy Pier's Festival Hall (600 E. Grand Avenue). This three day convention features a broad spectrum of modern and contemporary artwork from over 125 top international galleries. Studio Gang Architects' Jeanne Gang designed this year's clever floor plan, patterned after Chicago's gridded streets and lined with gallery exhibitions. The 2013 redesign also includes EXPO VIDEO, featuring modern and contemporary video artwork. 11am - 6pm. One day pass is $20.

"Gallery Talk with Charly Palmer" @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Gallery Talk with Charly Palmer," today from 3pm-5pm. Palmer will discuss "Charly Palmer: The Dream Lives On," his visual art exhibition that was inspired by the 1963 March on Washington. Admission is free; reservations are required. For more information, call 773-947-0600, ext. 255.

EXPO CHICAGO @ Navy Pier

The second annual EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, opens for the fall art season at Navy Pier's Festival Hall (600 E. Grand Avenue). This three day convention features a broad spectrum of modern and contemporary artwork from over 125 top international galleries. Studio Gang Architects' Jeanne Gang designed this year's clever floor plan, patterned after Chicago's gridded streets and lined with gallery exhibitions. The 2013 redesign also includes EXPO VIDEO, featuring modern and contemporary video artwork. 11am - 7pm. One day pass is $20 and three day weekend pass is $30.

Wicker Park After Dark @ Jackson Junge

Jackson Junge Gallery, 1389 N. Milwaukee Ave., opens Wicker Park After Dark, an exhibition of photography by David Szpunar, with a reception tonight from 6 to 9pm. Szpunar will be there, and refreshments will be served. Free.

EXPO CHICAGO @ Navy Pier

The second annual EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, opens for the fall art season today at Navy Pier's Festival Hall (600 E. Grand Avenue). This three day convention features a broad spectrum of modern and contemporary artwork from over 125 top international galleries. Studio Gang Architects' Jeanne Gang designed this year's clever floor plan, patterned after Chicago's gridded streets and lined with gallery exhibitions. The 2013 redesign also includes EXPO VIDEO, featuring modern and contemporary video artwork. 11am - 7pm. One day pass is $20 and three day weekend pass is $30.

Park(ing) Day

The annual Park(ing) Day festivities happen today from 8am to 9pm in parking spaces outside Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave. Help Architecture for Humanity Chicago turn the parking spaces into temporary public parks, and add your creative touch to a collection of stools that will be auctioned at a later fundraising event. Details on Facebook. Free.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts takes place today and Sunday on Broadway from Belmont to Hawthorne. View works by more than 175 artists, plus live music, cooking demos, and activities for the kids. The festival runs from 10am to 5pm today.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts takes place today and Sunday on Broadway from Belmont to Hawthorne. View works by more than 175 artists, plus live music, cooking demos, and activities for the kids. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm today.

Station to Station @ Union Station

The Station to Station tour stops at Union Station, 225 S. Canal St., tonight at 6:30pm, featuring performances by Mavis Staples, Theaster Gates' Black Monks of Mississippi, Thurston Moore and John Moloney/Caught on Tape, No Age, White Mystery and others and more, plus art by Urs Fischer, Kenneth Anger, Ernesto Neto, Carsten Höller and Liz Glynn and food from local restaurants. Tickets are $25.

Positive Babel Mural Dedication

The Old Irving Park Association will dedicate its latest mural, Positive Babel, at 11am today at the Union Pacific Railroad viaduct at Irving Park Road and Keeler Avenue. The mural, the 11th created in the community since 2003, is subtitled "The world lives, works and plays in Old Irving." The mural features 70 world landmarks that represent the home countries of residents.

OIPA president Marlena Ascher will emcee the event. Speakers will include Tony Sparrow, the lead artist, and public officials such as Congressman Mike Quigley, State Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr., and Aldermen John Arena and Tim Cullerton.

Chicago Fringe Festival

The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.

African Festival of the Arts

The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages -- Brandy is the headliner tonight. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.

Chicago Fringe Festival

The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.

African Festival of the Arts

The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.

Chicago Fringe Festival

The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 11am; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.

African Festival of the Arts

The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.

Chicago Fringe Festival

The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.

African Festival of the Arts

The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.

Chicago Fringe Festival

The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. There's also an opening night reception at 6pm at "Fringe Central," Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.

Lillstreet Fall Open House

Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., begins its celebration of 10 years at its Ravenswood location this weekend with the fall open house today from noon to 4pm. Explore the center, participate in free workshops, and check out the new exhibition in the gallery. Free; RSVP on Facebook.

Best Served Hot: Ceramics for the Coffee Ritual

Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., kicks off its celebration of 10 years at its Ravenswood location this weekend with an opening reception for "Best Served Hot: Ceramics for the Coffee Ritual," its sixth annual juried ceramics exhibition, tonight from 6 to 8pm. On display will be artist-made mugs, brewing vessels, carafes, and cream and sugar sets that celebrate the coffee ritual; Intelligentsia will serve coffee, DJ Bylamplight spins, and Eye Spy Optical runs a pop-up shop. Free; RSVP on Facebook.

On The Wall: Zine Art Meets Gallery Art

Quimby's Bookstore and salon/art space Strange Beauty Show co-curated an exhibition of artwork from zines, which makes its debut with a reception at Strange Beauty Show, 1118 N. Ashland Ave., tonight from 7 to 10pm. There will also be zines for sale and karaoke. More details here.

Digital Self Discussion @ CAC

The Chicago Artists Resource presents Digital Self: Making Your Online Presence Work For You, a panel discussion at the Chicago Artists Coalition, 217 N. Carpenter St., tonight at 6pm. The discussion will feature actor and producer Adria Dawn, artist and designer James T. Green, and editor and webmaster JC Steinbrunner; writer and designer Mig Reyes moderates. Admission is $5 for CAC members, $8 for general public; register here.

Chicago Botanical Artists

Chicago Botanical Artists, sponsored by Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, is open to all artists, beginners or advanced, who want to sketch together, share works in progress, and develop a supportive community of fellow artists. The group meets from 3 to 5pm today at 2430 N. Cannon Drive, to sketch native plants in and around the Nature Museum's gardens. Artists are welcome to bring their own botanic specimens for sketching. Registration is free and required. To register, call 773-755-5100 ext. 5028, or email adultprograms@naturemuseum.org

FIGMENT Festival @ Garfield Park Conservatory

The FIGMENT Festival runs Saturday and today at the Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., and features dozens of family-friendly projects, performances and workshops. See the schedule for details. It's open from noon to 5pm today. Admission is free.

FIGMENT Festival @ Garfield Park Conservatory

The FIGMENT Festival runs today and Sunday at the Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., and features dozens of family-friendly projects, performances and workshops. See the schedule for details. It's open from noon to 9pm today. Admission is free.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

August Drink & Draw Comics @ Spudnik Press

There are no teachers and no pretensions at this bi-monthly get together devoted to drawing practices and having a good time. This month's design theme is comics. Theme beverage is vodka BYO mixer. Bring your sketchbook, drawing utensils, and favorite mixer. Comic books and vodka will be provided. Drink & Draw goes from 7-9:30pm at The Annex at Spudnik Press (1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 303). $5 suggested donation.

MCA First Fridays

The Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., hosts its monthly First Fridays open house tonight from 6 to 10pm. The theme is "Selfies." Pose for a photo by Kelly Kaczynski in her pop-up green screen studio; listen to to Joan of Arc perform Helter Skelter, a site-specific endurance performance; watch Jennifer Mills' interactive performance Knock, Knock! Who's There?; view a program of YouTube videos curated by Eric Fleischauer or Selina Trepp's video self-portrait, Thinking about Inheritance; join in Mathew Paul Jinks’ interactive reading, Invitation to read from an immigrant's library; and enjoy DJ sets by Chances Dances. Admission is $10 for MCA members, $14 in advance or $18 at the door for non-members. 21+

First Annual Hoo Ha Hootenany @ Small Bar

Shop and enjoy fine weather on the patio beer garden at Small Bar Logan Square today for the first annual Hoo Ha Hootenany. The event features eight lady crafter exhibitors, and there'll be a wide range of goods and services. Bonus: the whole event is free, including the raffle, cookies, and cupcakes! Noon-5pm. 2956 N. Albany. Download a flyer (PDF).

Printer's Ball: Trip & Return @ Hubbard Street Lofts

Printer's Ball, Chicago's largest annual celebration of literary and print making culture, runs today from noon to 6pm at the Hubbard Street Lofts, 821 W. Hubbard St. This year's theme is "Trip & Return." See Tony Fitzpatrick in conversation with Fred Sasaki, printshop demos with Brad Vetter & Alex Valentine, free jazz performances curated by Elastic Arts Foundation and much, much more! Free.

Cal Schenkel @ Firecat Projects

Firecat Projects, 2124 N. Damen Ave., hosts an opening reception for an exhibition of art by Cal Schenkel tonight from 7 to 10pm. Schenkel is best known for his cover art for Frank Zappa and Reprise Records, as well as his iconic cover for Captain Beefheart's Trout Mask Replica. He will be present for the reception. The show will be up through Aug. 20.

Lillstreet Art Center Creative Retreat: Travel Photography

The Lillstreet Art Center will host a creative retreat at its Lillstreet Loft location at 4437 North Ravenswood Avenue. Those interested will check-in at 10am for their retreat at the front desk at Lillstreet Art Center (4401 North Ravenswood Avenue) and will be directed to the loft from there. The event lasts from 10am until 4pm, and will offer a 75-minute yoga class taught by Bloom Yoga© (all levels welcome), as well as a three-hour, hands-on art instruction.

Make some new friends while you learn all the secrets to taking professional-looking photos for your next big trip. A guided tour and photo shoot throughout Lincoln Square will allow those to learn how to observe different compositions, see familiar situations in a new perspective and how to find great light.

The cost is $115 for Lillstreet members, $120 for others, and the tab includes a healthy, catered lunch. Items to bring include a notebook and pen, digital camera (DSLR preferred, Point & Shoot okay), an extra battery and an empty or extra memory card.

*Please note that Lillstreet Loft is only accessible by stairs.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

Wicker Punk Ball @ Double Door

First Ward Alderman Proco Joe Moreno hosts the Wicker Punk Ball tonight at Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., featuring live painting, punk-inspired murals and installations, performances by Frank Lintzeris and Totally Wrecked, live band punk karaoke, the Midnight Circus and more. A portion of the proceeds benefit 826CHI and CPS schools in the 1st Ward. Tickets are $15 online, $25 at the door. "Mohawks, Doc Martin's and ballroom attire encouraged." Doors open at 6pm. 21+

Chicago Botanical Artists

Chicago Botanical Artists, sponsored by Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, is open to all artists, beginners or advanced, who want to sketch together, share works in progress, and develop a supportive community of fellow artists. The group meets from 3-5 pm at 2430 N. Cannon Dr. to sketch native plants in and around the Nature Museum's gardens, working outdoors when weather permits, or indoors with specimens. Artists are welcome to bring their own botanic specimens for sketching. Registration is free and required. To register call (773)755-5100 ext. 5028, or email adultprograms@naturemuseum.org

Matthew Hoffman @ Comfort Station

Artist Matthew Hoffman opens Independence, an exhibition of new work, at the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., today with a reception from 1 to 4pm. Details on Facebook.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival


The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs this weekend, June 28-30, on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, more than 50 artist booths, food from neighborhood restaurants, family activities and more. The festival runs from noon to 10pm today; $5 suggested donation.

Community Stage:
12:30pm - TBA
2pm - Ted Sirota's Heavyweight Dub
3:30pm - Blue Ribbon Glee Club
5pm - Netherfriends
6:30pm - Football
8pm - William Cepeda featuring AfriCaribe, Angel Alvarez and The Edwin Sanchez Project

Culture Stage
1:15pm - TBA
2:45pm - ¡Vamos!
4:15pm - Jose Cornier
5:45pm - ShowYouSuck
7:15pm - M.A.K.U SoundSystem
8:45pm - Waco Brothers

"Vivian Maier's South Side"

The Jane Addams Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St., presents Vivian Maier's South Side, an exhibition of the recently discovered street photographer's depictions of Maxwell Street and the South Side, curated by Mike Bullis, tonight at 7pm. Bullis, filmmaker Tom Palazzolo and UIC photography professor Silvia Malagrino will screen a short film of Maxwell Street shot by Maier, and discuss her work and legacy. Free. More details on Facebook.

Feed Chicago Artists @ Starving Artist 2013

Art and food combine tonight at the Chicago Artists Coalition's annual benefit, Starving Artist 2013. Chefs from Fat Rice, Siena Tavern, Longman and Eagle, and Belly Q join some of Chicago's leading visual artists to create edible installations. Tickets are $50 for artists/arts administrators and $100 for general admission until June 15. All proceeds support CAC's programs and the Maker Grant, which provides critical unrestricted support for a local Chicago artist. If anything, go for the Taco Battle between Big Star and Antique Taco.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs this weekend, June 28-30, on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, more than 50 artist booths, food from neighborhood restaurants, family activities and more. The festival runs from noon to 10pm tonight; $5 suggested donation.

Community Stage:
12:30pm - The Jason Adasiewicz & Keefe Jackson Duo
2pm - The Cairo Gang
3:30pm - Lawrence Peters Outfit
5pm - Jamaican Queens
6:30pm - Basic Cable
8pm - All Tiny Creatures

Culture Stage:
1:15pm - IMW All Stars
2:45pm - Bill MacKay & Leroy Bach
4:15pm - Santah
5:45pm - Dumpster Babies
7:15pm - Cuarteto Superior
8:45pm - Tobacco (of Black Moth Super Rainbow)

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs this weekend, June 28-30, on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, more than 50 artist booths, food from neighborhood restaurants, family activities and more. The festival runs from 5pm to 10pm tonight; $5 suggested donation.

Community Stage:
5pm - Milo & Otis
6:30pm - Los Vicios De Papa
8pm - CAVE

Culture Stage:
5:45pm - Jugo De Mango
7:15pm - Bare Mutants
8:45pm - DãM-FunK

SEX. MONEY. RACE. GENDER: The Ladydrawers (of Chicago Ill.)

The Ladydrawers Comics Collective celebrates the opening of its exhibition A+D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., with a reception tonight from 5 to 8pm. More details here. Free.

Sarah & Ashley Williams Opening @ Peanut Gallery

The Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., celebrates the opening of an exhibition of new work by artists Sarah & Ashley Williams tonight from 5pm to 9pm. Free.

Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo

The Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, or CAKE, runs Saturday and today at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., from 11am to 6pm. Check out the exhibit floor, attend panels and indie animated film screenings, and much more. Admission is free.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

The Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, or CAKE, runs today and Sunday at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., from 11am to 6pm. Check out the exhibit floor, attend panels and indie animated film screenings, and much more. Anything that Loves, a bisexual comics event, starts at 7:30pm. Admission is free.

Version Fest

The 13th annual Version arts and culture festival runs June 14-22 at several venues in Bridgeport. Tonight's opening exhibition, An Urban Operating System, is at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 6 to 11pm. View art, meet local organizations, and watch A Pocket Guide to Hell's production Snake Oil at 8pm. Admission is free; the exhibit remains on display through June 20. See the program for a full list of Version events.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at S. Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

George Pfau & Jason Robert Bell @ Gallery 400

Multimedia artist George Pfau presents a slideshow of diagrams, film stills, videos, and animations about zombies, and artist Jason Robert Bell performs tarot readings with his newly released White Feathered Octopus tarot cards tonight at Gallery 400, 400 S. Peoria St., tonight from 7 to 9pm. The performances are part of the closing party for the group exhibition I THINK WE’RE READY TO GO TO THE NEXT SEQUENCE: THE LEGACY OF HALFLIFERS. Free.

Chicago Design Museum Opening Reception @ Block 37

The Chicago Design Museum holds an opening reception for its current exhibition at Block 37, 108 N. State St., 3rd floor, tonight from 7 to 11pm. Free.

The Sights of Never @ Silo Art Space

Silo Art Space, 5110 W. Irving Park Rd., presents artist and director Joey Garfield's The Sights of Never, a screening of rarities, b-sides and other oddities from his film archives. Come see some rarely seen footage of Style Wars, The Barnstormers Collective, Garfield's film Headrush and more, and browse Garfield's current art exhibit, "The Sounds of Never," curated by Erik DeBat. The event runs from 7 to 10pm. Free.

Issues Visualized by The Chicago Reporter

Since 1972, The Chicago Reporter has reported on the social, economic and political issues of metropolitan Chicago with a distinct focus on race and poverty.Join us for an opening reception on Thursday, June 20, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at DreamBox Foto Gallery, 2415 W. North Ave., in Chicago.

Skull-A-Day vs. Street Anatomy @ IMSS

The art gallery at the International Museum of Surgical Science holds an opening reception for FACE OFF: Skull-A-Day vs Street Anatomy tonight from 5 to 9pm. The exhibition features work by artists Mike Egan, Tom French, Emilio Garcia, Ali Gulec, Joshua Harker, Meyoko, Nicholas Obery, Rx Skulls, Dan Springer and Rob Tarbell. Admission is free.

Laydeez Do Comics @ Quimby's

Indie comic artists Sarah Morton and Tyrell Cannon come to Quimby's for the May installment of the Wicker Park bookstore's monthly series Laydeez Do Comics, which features women (and friends of women) discussing their comics, complete with snacks. The event is free and starts at 7:00 p.m. at 1854 W. North Ave.

Art is the Word @ Peanut Gallery

The Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave, hosts Art is the Word, a blending of writing and visual art. Artists and writers often switch hats, influence one another, and belong to the same cultural dialogues. Three workshops -- May 14, May 21 and tonight -- on the topic of text incorporation in the visual arts will take place followed by an exhibition displaying collaborative works that evolve out of the workshops, will run from 7 to 10pm. Participants will have a choice to collaborate with others in any way they please. The creation of collaborative work based on the workshops is encouraged, and works produced from the workshops will be included in an upcoming exhibition.

Art is the Word @ Peanut Gallery

The Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave, hosts Art is the Word, a blending of writing and visual art. Artists and writers often switch hats, influence one another, and belong to the same cultural dialogues. Three workshops -- May 14, tonight and May 28 -- on the topic of text incorporation in the visual arts will take place followed by an exhibition displaying collaborative works that evolve out of the workshops, will run from 7 to 10pm. Participants will have a choice to collaborate with others in any way they please. The creation of collaborative work based on the workshops is encouraged, and works produced from the workshops will be included in an upcoming exhibition.

Brain Frame

Brain Frame 12 tonight features shadow puppets, sanitary napkin disposal bags, a breakdance crew and more, from Nate Beaty, Thorne Brandt, Kevin Budnik, Eamon Espey and Lisa Krause, Meghan Lamb and Anne Elizabeth Moore, with music by Tyson Torsentenson. It's at 643 W. 31st St., 2nd floor, and doors open at 8pm. $7.

Get Small @ 4Art Inc.

Sculptors Nancy Pirri and her mentor Robin Power are building the 'Wall of Small' at 4Art on May 17th for the Zhou B Center's monthly 3rd Friday event. all of these sculptures will be under 12 inches and there will be plenty to see.

4Art Inc @ Zhou B Center
1029 W 35th St Chicago, IL 60609
May 17th 6pm - 10pm

Manifest Urban Arts Festival

Columbia College holds its annual Manifest Urban Arts Festival today beginning at 8am. Literally dozens of events run all day long; see the schedule for full details. Most events are free, though some request a small donation.

Free Artist Talk with Mequitta Ahuja @ DePaul Art Museum

Tonight from 6-8pm, join the DePaul Art Museum (935 W Fullerton) for a free artist talk with Mequitta Ahuja, whose mixed-media drawings are part of the current exhibition at DPAM, "War Baby / Love Child: Mixed Race Asian American Art."

Art is the Word @ Peanut Gallery

The Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave, hosts Art is the Word, a blending of writing and visual art. Artists and writers often switch hats, influence one another, and belong to the same cultural dialogues. Three workshops -- tonight, May 21 and May 28 -- on the topic of text incorporation in the visual arts will take place followed by an exhibition displaying collaborative works that evolve out of the workshops, will run from 7 to 10pm. Participants will have a choice to collaborate with others in any way they please. The creation of collaborative work based on the workshops is encouraged, and works produced from the workshops will be included in an upcoming exhibition.

Michael Kenna @ Catherine Edelman Gallery

The powerful black and white landscapes of world-reknowned photographer Michael Kenna are returning to the Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St. Kenna's fine-art prints use line and blur to capture the emotion and essence of cities and countries around the world. The images will be on display until July 6.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the 30-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at Halsted and 18th streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St.

Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios

Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds its monthly open studio night tonight from 6 to 10pm. See work by more than 40 artists, plus live music by Live Music by Belle Street Trio. The Taquero Fusion food truck will be parked outside if you get hungry. Admission is free.

The Cremaster Cycle @ Film Center

The Gene Siskel Film Center begins screening one of the most highly divisive film series in recent memory: Matthew Barney's Cremaster Cycle. Cremaster 1 and Cremaster 2 begin the series tonight at 7:45pm. Full details, as well as advance tickets, are available through the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.

14 15 111 @ Intuit

Composer/songwriter Daniel Knox and photographer John Atwood premiere the first two installments of their latest work, 14 15 111, at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday and tonight at 7pm. See MartinJon's preview in A/C. Tickets are $15.

Art, Wine, and Entertainment: The Fashion Edition @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Art, Wine, and Entertainment," tonight from 7pm-10pm. In addition to visual art, exhibits, music, and spoken word, this latest installment of A.W.E. features fashion presentations by Chicago-based designers including House of Duvall, Chocolate Sushi Couture, Art Star by Onli Wear and more. Tickets are $10; for more information, call 773--947-0600, ext. 290.

SAIC Fashion 2013

Fashion 2013, the School of the Art Institute's spring fashion MFA show, will be presented three times today: 9am is an open dress rehearsal, while the noon and 3pm shows are general admission seating. Tickets for the 9am show are $40, the later shows are $75. See our preview in A/C.

14 15 111 @ Intuit

Composer/songwriter Daniel Knox and photographer John Atwood premiere the first two installments of their latest work, 14 15 111, at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight and Friday at 7pm. See MartinJon's preview in A/C. Tickets are $15.

Brave New Art World

Brave New Art World, a new open house night in the River North gallery district, debuts tonight from 5 to 8pm. There will be performance art in the streets, critical talks and exhibition openings throughout the neighborhood, centered on Wells and Franklin streets. Free.

Promic-Con @ SAIC Ballroom

If you missed your prom in high school, 826CHI makes up for it at tonight's Promic-Con at the SAIC Ballroom (112 South Michigan Avenue) from 8pm-midnight. Formalwear or (superhero? anyhero?) costumes encouraged; raffles, dancing, a silent auction and an open bar (unlike high school) await you. Tickets $40-75. Proceeds benefit 826CHI's writing programs for city schoolchildren.

Laydeez Do Comics @ Quimby's

Quimby's Bookstore is back with its April installment of Laydeez Do Comics, a monthly series of presentations by women in comics, along with men in comics who like women in comics. Comics creators share their experiences, creation processes, and thoughts on the medium in an intimate gathering at the back of Quimby's, and visitors can ask questions and discuss comics while enjoying light snacks and refreshments. The lineup of presenters of TBA, and the event is free, taking place at 7 p.m. at 1854 W. North Ave.

Ag47 Showcase @ Hairpin Arts Center

Logan Square arts mentorship collective Ag47 (previously profiled on Gapers Block) holds its fourth annual showcase at Hairpin Arts Center, 2800 N Milwaukee, from 7 to 10pm. For the event, youth artists and their adult mentors collaborated to create art that explores the questions "How does the world infect you? How will you infect the world?" The suggested donation for the event is $10, which supports Ag47's arts mentorship programming with girls aged 11-17. Live poetry, performance, and multimedia art exhibits promise an infectious evening.

Third Fridays @ Zhou B Art Center

Every third Friday of the month, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Zhou B Art Center,1029 W. 35th Street, a multi-floor, multi-discliplinary art and culture venue composed of artist's studios, art galleries, gathering spaces and the Zhou B Café & Art Lounge opens its doors to the public. On Third Fridays, resident and international artists exhibit their newest works in various media for the consumption of collectors, artists, and anyone else with an interest in art. The event also offers the opportunity for the public to interact with the artists who created the exhibited works. The event is free to attend, and free refreshments are provided.

#DocYourWorld @ Columbia's Film Row Cinema

Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9:30pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.

#DocYourWorld @ Columbia's Film Row Cinema

Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.

Edible Books Festival @ Columbia College

Columbia College's Center for Book and Paper Arts holds its 14th annual Edible Books Festival and Tea tonight from 6 to 8pm in the Columbia College Library, 624 S. Michigan Ave., 3rd Floor. View book-like sculptures made from edible materials reflecting the book or the selected theme (this year it's In the Time of the Butterflies, by Julia Alvarez). After awarding prizes for "Best of Show," "Most Likely to be Devoured," "Best Use of Pun," the entries will be consumed by the guests. Tea will of course also be served. Free.

The Reinvention of Vivian Maier @ Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum hosts The Reinvention of Vivian Maier, an exploration of the evolving story surrounding the prolific late photographer. Investigative artist Pamela Bannos will examine the prominent role technology and social media has played in the emergence of Maier's work and shifting accounts of her biography, which has led to the public's mounting interest in "Viral Vivian." Reception is at 6pm; event starts at 7pm.

'The Way We Sleep' Reading @ The Book Cellar

Tonight, The Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln Ave.) presents a reading of recently published anthology The Way We Sleep: a collection of short stories, comics, and interviews all based around the ways in which our sleeping and waking lives collide. The reading will feature contributors Billy Lombardo, Ben Tanzer, Dakota Sexton, and Natalie Edwards, as well as a shadow puppet show presented by Jill Summers and Susie Kirkwood. RSVP here. 7 pm, Free!

Draw Like Darger @ Intuit

Learn to draw like outsider artist Henry Darger at a workshop led by artist Joel Javier at the Intuit Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., today at 3pm. The cost is $8 for members, $10 for non-members; materials and light refreshments will be provided.

CAKE FRAME (Fundraiser / Silent Auction) @ Peanut Gallery

The fabulous, annual Chicago Alternative Comics Expo is coming up again this summer, and to prepare for it, they've organized a big fundraising event at Peanut Gallery (1000 N. California Ave.) tonight from 7 to 11pm. There will be a rowdy live auction featuring a whole lot of work by talented local artists (some big names) and live performances by Paul Nudd, Jeremy Pettis, Alyssa Herlocher and Andy Burkholder. Facebook invite here. Free admission.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

On the second Friday of every month, the thirty-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at S. Halsted and 18th Streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted.

ASMP/APA Bar Night @ DeLux Bar and Grill

The American Photographic Artists and the American Society of Media Photographers put on a monthly bar night every second Wednesday of the month. This is a chance for photographers, producers, models, printmakers, and anyone else connected with photography to network in a laid back environment. This month's event is sponsored by Calumet Photographic and is free to attend at Delux Bar & Grill, 669 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Art Reception @ Art on Armitage

A reception featuring artists Stacy Peterson, Pei San Ng, and Amie Sell will be held tonight from 6pm-8pm at Art on Armitage, 4125 W. Armitage. Stop by to check out their new nebulous work/ window exhibit inspired by a trip to Creative Reuse Warehouse. The cloud of up-cycled industrial hardware and metal wires plays on modern communication and acts as a visual representation of how people work together to create communities, social networks, and how molecular structures build. Meet these artists and better understand their new installation's subject and inspiration.

Britton Walters Opening @ Inkling

Inkling, 2917-1/2 N. Broadway, celebrates the opening of "The Dog Show," an exhibition of canine portraiture by Britton Walters, tonight from 6 to 10pm. Walters will also be selling dog-themed items from his Nerfect product line. Proceeds from the evening's sales will benefit One Tail at a Time.

Michael Zapruder's Pink Thunder @ Rational Park

Michael Zapruder and friends perform Zapruder's latest album, Pink Thunder, at Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave., at a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm. The gallery is currently displaying Zapruder's 22 Pink Thunder portmanteaus, consisting of a recording of a song from the album and a corresponding found object, through April 12. The event is free.

Tom Billings @ Grand Bizzare

Tom Billings Currently has new sculptural pieces up at the Grand Bizzare Gallery and before it comes down there will be a bash of Music and typical Billings Mayhem.

Performances by:
Rik and Deuce
Riders of the Apocalypse

DJs
Rik Shaw and Le Deuce

9 - midnight 1418 W Division
http://www.grandbizzare.com

Hatch Show Print @ Firecat Projects

Legendary concert poster printers Hatch Show Print celebrate the opening of an exhibition of prints at Firecat Projects, 2124 N. Damen Ave., with a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm. Sponsor the Metro will be selling 10 limited edition iconic Metro posters from the archives of the club-s 30-year history at the reception.

100 Acts of Sewing @ Lillstreet

Fiber artist Sonya Philip celebrates the opening of her show 100 Acts of Sewing at Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood, with a reception from 6 to 8pm tonight. One hundred dresses made by Philip over the course of a year will be displayed throughout the building. Free.

Brain Frame Comics Reading

The 11th installment of Brain Frame, a "peformative" comics reading, happens tonight at Heavy Gel, 2335 W. Lake St., starting at 8pm. The lineup includes the talent of Bill Cleveland, Krystal DiFronzo, Ian Endsley, Marieke McClendon, Otto Splotch and Jim Trainor. Live musical accompaniment will be provided by by Tyson Torstenson. Cover is $7.

Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds its spring Open Studios night tonight from 6 to 10pm. See the art and studio space of more than 40 artists, plus special guest artists Kass Copeland and Hyeonkyeong Yeo. The Tamale Spaceship will be parked outside for your snacking needs. Free.

Mitch O'Connell book signing @ Quimby's

Quimby's presents a book signing and slideshow by local artist Mitch O'Connell, promoting his new book Mitch O'Connell: The World's Best Artist. The event starts at 7pm at Quimby's (1854 West North Avenue), and is free and open to the public. Full details at the Quimby's Website.

Activist Authors Read @ No Nation Gallery

Art and activism converge in a reading by authors Dan P. Moore and Becky Dernbach at 2pm on March 10, at No Nation Gallery (formerly known as Happy Dog Gallery). With his Graphic Novel, Mark Twain Was Right, Moore tells of his experience as a high schooler living through the Cincinnati Riots, and Dernbach lends accessibility to the story of America's housing crisis with her picture book, Fannie and Freddie. Come check out the free show at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Wicker Park!

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

The Chicago Arts District's monthly Second Fridays neighborhood-wide open house is tonight, centered around 18th and Halsted streets. Dozens of galleries and studios are open starting at around 6pm, with many artists selling work. Free.

Open House @ U of C's New Arts Incubator

The U of C's new Arts Incubator in Washington Park is having its first big open house from 3pm-6pm at 301 E. Garfield. There will be free tours of the new space, music and a new exhibition, "Feedback." See more on Facebook.

"5 Different Videos" @ Peanut Gallery

Tonight at 7pm, Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., hosts a screening of "5 Different Videos," a collection of five short films by Detroit-based female video artists, Eleni Zaharopoulos, Bailey Scieszka, Katie Barkel, Mïïgun-å-rïen and Chanel Von Habsburg-Lothringen. Admission is free.

Democracy and the Built Environment @ IIT

Peter Onuf, Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation Professor of History at the University of Virginia, and Marshall Brown, assistant professor of Architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology will discuss "How should architects in a modern democracy balance the values of freedom, equality, progress, enlightenment, and beauty?" The event starts at 7pm at McCormick Tribune Campus Center Auditorium. RSVP here.

Hashbrown Chili Cookoff @ Spudnik Press

Tonight is the Spudnik Press Hashbrown Chili Cookoff fundraiser held at their office (1821 W. Hubbard St., Suite 302). Twelve of Chicago's finest organizations devoted to printmaking and self-publishing will duke it out for the title of best chili. This year's participants include Chicago Printmakers Collaborative, The Prinstitute, Center for Book and Paper Arts, Read/Write Library and Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, among others. $10 gets you five tickets and $25 gets you a VIP package (five large chili portions, a golden spoon and a complimentary signature cocktail). Event runs 6pm-10pm.

Dmitry Samarov & Shay DeGrandis @ Elastic Vision Gallery

Dmitry Samarov and Shay DeGrandis celebrate the opening of Covers and Crushes, an exhibition of their recent artwork at Elastic Vision Gallery, 2830 N. Milwaukee Ave., with a reception tonight at 7pm. Free.

Michael Salvatore @ Heritage Bicycles

MAS Context and Heritage Bicycles present a conversation with Michael Salvatore, CEO and owner of Heritage, who will discuss the company's bicycle production process, bicycle styles and how Heritage brings bicycles and coffee together. Free and BYOB at 2959 N. Lincoln Ave. 7pm.

Kara Walker @ Chicago Humanities Festival

The Chicago Humanities Festival presents a discussion between artist Kara Walker and Art Institute Associate Curator of Contemporary Art Lisa Dorin, in the Art Institute's Rubloff Auditorium, 111 S. Michigan Ave., today at 6pm. The talk will be followed by an exclusive tour of Walker's new installation, Rise Up Ye Mighty Race!, in the Modern Wing. Tickets are $15 ($10 for members, $5 for students).

Emre Kocagil @ Peanut Gallery

Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., celebrates the opening of Emre Kocagil's new exhibition, Very Solo, with a reception tonight from 5 to 9pm. Free.

Susanin's February Auction

Today at 9am, Susanin's Auctions (900 S. Clinton) is holding its February auction, which includes antique and mid-century furniture, paintings, prints, sculpture, chocolate molds, porcelain, glass, silver, rugs and carpets, Inuit and Native American pottery and carvings, Asian art, as well as some decorative art. Preview runs all week long (Monday, Feb. 11 through Friday, Feb. 15) from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free. Visit susanins.com or call 312-832-9800 for more information. Admission is free.

Art, Wine and Entertainment @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th St., presents "Art, Wine and Entertainment," tonight from 7pm-10pm. The event will feature an exhibits tour including "Geoffrey & Carmen: A Memoir in Four Movements" and Gallery Guichard's "Shooting Stars," as well as spoken word, live visual art demonstrations, and music from the Afrobeat, soul and house genres. Tickets are $10; for more information, call 773-947-0600 x290.

Occupy Art Exhibits @ Art In These Times

AREA Chicago celebrates the opening of two art exhibits at Art In These Times,
2040 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor, from 6 to 9pm tonight Encampments, Occupations and Tent Cities examines historic actions such as the Fayette County Tent City, the occupations of Alcatraz and the Mad Houser hut cities. Espacios Ocupados: Defining 99% features work from contemporary Caribbean, Latin American and Latino artists that explores shifting cultural identities in a post-Occupy world. Free.

Identity: Real and Imagined

The Third Coast Audio Festival and Victory Gardens Theater team up tonight at 7:30pm for Identity: Real and Imagined an evening of audio stories inspired by Anupama Chandrasekhar's play Disconnect, now playing at Victory Gardens, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door, and free if you have tickets to the play (which, to be clear, is not being performed with this event.)

Derek Hess Opening @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., celebrates the opening of Divorced From Heaven, an exhibition of original art by famed poster artist Derek Hess, with a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm. Hess will be on hand to meet fans, and will be releasing a limited edition print at the reception. DJ Sean Doe spins. Free.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

The Chicago Arts District's monthly Second Fridays neighborhood-wide open house is tonight, centered around 18th and Halsted streets. Dozens of galleries and studios are open starting at around 6pm, with many artists selling work. Free.

Spacewarming Party

Jackalope Theater Company is celebrating the grand opening of their new multi-use rehearsal and educational space at 8 p.m. in the north-side neighborhood of Edgewater. The party will feature visual art by Mikey Rioux, a performance in the spoken word by Shannon Matesky, live jazz by Blue Whale, and a performance by Brandon Moorehead and Rhapsody Snyder.

If you'd like to go to the event, you can simply rsvp on the event's Facebook page. The party is at 1106 W. Thorndale Ave, just steps from the Thorndale Red Line stop. The show is at 9, and last call is at midnight.

artEdge at the MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art is throwing its annual fundraising benefit, artEdge, on Feb. 2 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. The event offers guests a decadent evening filled with the romance of the Industrial Age and features a concert by the critically-acclaimed indie pop band, Fitz and the Tantrums.

Attendees will begin their evening with hors d'oeuvres in the Chain-Link Room. They'll then make their way through the Automation Room, Corrugated Room and Chain Room, sampling food from an automated conveyor belt and experiencing live performances curated by Peter Taub, the MCA's Director of Performance Programs.

The event takes place at the MCA Warehouse, 1747 W. Hubbard St. Individual tickets are available for $1,000, which includes the cocktail reception, dinner, dessert reception and concert performance. Table packages begin at $15,000. Concert tickets are available for $150 and include the dessert reception, open bar and concert performance. To purchase tickets, table packages, make reservations, or to inquire about sponsorship, email hhanas@mcachicago.org or call (312) 397-3868.

Kiss Kiss Cabaret 2nd Anniversary Party

Kiss Kiss Cabaret is celebrating their second anniversary and their 100th performance with a blow-out bash featuring their burlesque dancers, the Kiss Kiss Coquettes.
The company's full cast, including its comedians, magicians, jugglers, and hosts will also be performing at the show, February 1, at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. There will also be cake.
KKC suggests this event only for an 18+ audience. Tickets are $15 in advance at $20 at the door.

Andrea Everman @ Inkling

Inkling, 2917½ N. Broadway, hosts an opening reception for an exhibition of new work by Andrea Everman, creator of Owly Shadow Puppets, tonight from 6 to 10pm. (It's also a good opportunity to pick up a Valentine's Day card.) Free.

Brian Leli Opening @ Eyeporium

Photographer and former GB staffer Brian Leli opens an exhibition of photos from his time in London at Eyeporium Gallery, 1431 N. Milwaukee Ave., with a reception tonight from 6 to 9pm. Silence Kills includes photos from the London Riots, the Olympics, Occupy London, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Pride London and more. The exhibition will be up through Feb. 25.

Party for Obsolete Technology @ Center for Book & Paper Arts

The Center for Book & Paper Arts, 1104 S. Wabash, 2nd Fl., hosts a Party for Obsolete Technology tonight from 7:30pm to 10pm to celebrate the opening of two new exhibitions: Almost Metal Collective and Marvelous Freedom/Vigilance of Desire. Enjoy cake, filmstrip screenings, an obsolete technology petting zoo, and a pop-up library from the Read/Write Library Chicago. Free.

Gallery Talk with Terrence A. Reese @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Gallery Talk with Terrence A. Reese," tonight from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Reese will be on hand to discuss "Reflections," his "docu-photography" exhibit that explores "personal living spaces" of renowned figures from the world art, dance, and civil rights. Free. For more information, call 773-947-0600.

Lillstreet Emerging Artists Lecture Series: Stephanie Tisza

Media artist Stephanie Tisza is the first guest in Lillstreet Art Center's new Emerging Artists Lecture Series, tonight at 7pm. The event takes place in Lillstreet's new event space 4437 N. Ravenswood Ave., 2nd Floor. Free. More details on Facebook.

Zlumber Party @ Quimby's

Crafting the next great American zine? Or any zine, really? Quimby's, at 1854 W. North Ave., is hosting an in-house "Zlumber Party" and inviting zine-makers of all kinds to come hunker down, spend the night, and get some zine work done in solidarity. The store closes at 10pm on Saturday and stays open all night for attendees. Sleeping bags and other sleepover gear encouraged! Entrance is free; arrive around 9pm. Call 773-342-0910 or email info(at)quimbys(dot)com to RSVP.

Fred Burkhart Opening @ Alibi Fine Art

Burkhart's Underground, the first formal gallery show of work by 71-year-old outsider photographer Fred Burkhart, opens tonight at Alibi Fine Art, 1966 W. Montrose Ave., with a reception from 5:30 to 8:30pm. The show runs through March 23.

Chicago Photographic Center's TATTOO II

The Chicago Photographic Center celebrates the art of tattoo through photography with its January 2013 exhibit, TATTOO II. The show, which is open from Jan. 11 to 27, features photographs illustrating the entire tattooing process. The opening reception for TATTOO II takes place at the Chicago Photographic Center, 3301 N. Lincoln Ave., from 7 to 9pm. There will be optimum entertainment on site, including a tattoo artist giving temporary tattoos and a performance by the Movements of Magic.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

The Chicago Arts District's monthly Second Fridays neighborhood-wide open house is tonight, centered around 18th and Halsted streets. Dozens of galleries and studios are open starting at around 6pm, with many artists selling work. Free.

A Personal Project Show at Defibrillator Gallery

A Personal Project Show gives audiences the opportunity to peek into the personal worlds of 13 Chicago artists. The show features photography and paintings completed by artists for their own personal purposes, and not for commercial use. The event offers fine art, music, and drinks, and it's FREE tonight from 6-11 p.m. at Defibrillator Gallery, 1136 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 60642.

Ben Huh @ MCA

Ben Huh, found of the Cheezburger network, gives the talk "Why Bad Art is Beautiful: The Accidental Success of Art from the Masses" at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight at 6pm. Free to Illinois residents or with museum admission.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

The Chicago Arts District's monthly Second Fridays neighborhood-wide open house is tonight, centered around 18th and Halsted streets. Dozens of galleries and studios are open starting at around 6pm, with many artists selling work. Free.

One of a Kind Show

The One of a Kind Show runs Dec. 6-9 in the Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza. More than 600 artists from around the world display and sell their art, jewelry, clothing, housewares and more, including an Etsy vendor corral. There's also a program of workshops, fashion shows and music. The show is open from 11am to 5pm today. Tickets are $12, $9 for seniors over 65.

One of a Kind Show

The One of a Kind Show runs Dec. 6-9 in the Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza. More than 600 artists from around the world display and sell their art, jewelry, clothing, housewares and more, including an Etsy vendor corral. There's also a program of workshops, fashion shows and music. The show is open from 10am to 7pm today. Tickets are $12, $9 for seniors over 65.

4045 Holiday Open Studios

The 4045 Rockwell Artists Community hosts a holiday open house this evening from 6 to 10pm at 4045 N. Rockwell Ave. Browse and purchase prints by Screwball Press, Dan Grzeca, Kathleen Judge, Baker Prints and others, while enjoying Three Floyds beer.

ODLCO Holiday Shop and Open House

ODLCO opens a holiday shop in its studio at 1136 W. Randolph St. with an open house tonight from 6 to 9pm. ODLCO's full line of products and inventory will be available for purchase, plus production samples and one of a kind objects. Fresh-made Food Crypt donuts and cocktails will be served. Free; RSVP requested. The holiday shop will remain open noon to 7pm through the 19th (closed Mondays).

One of a Kind Show

The One of a Kind Show runs Dec. 6-9 in the Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza. More than 600 artists from around the world display and sell their art, jewelry, clothing, housewares and more, including an Etsy vendor corral. There's also a program of workshops, fashion shows and music. The show is open from 11am to 8pm today. Tickets are $12, $9 for seniors over 65.

Beauties & Beasties @ Post Family

The Post Family mounts a one-night-only exhibition of Beauties & Beasties, a series of mask-like automatic drawings by Rick Valicenti, tonight from 6 to 9pm in the Post Family Studio, 1821 W. Hubbard St. #202.

One of a Kind Show

The One of a Kind Show runs Dec. 6-9 in the Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza. More than 600 artists from around the world display and sell their art, jewelry, clothing, houswares and more, including an Etsy vendor corral. There's also a program of workshops, fashion shows and music. The show is open from 11am to 8pm today. Tickets are $12, $9 for seniors over 65.

International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale

The Chicago Printmakers Collaborative's 23rd annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale runs Saturday and today from 11am to 7pm at the CPC Gallery, 4642 N. Western Ave. Browse silkscreens, block prints, etchings, lithographs and more by over 60 artists.

Co-Op Holiday Bazaar @ Ignite Glass Studios

Co-op Image's 10th annual Holiday Bazaar is today from 5pm to 10pm at Ignite Glass Studios, 401 N. Armour St. Shop for gifts such as ornaments, glassware and limited edition custom Co-op Hot Sauce bottles handmade by Co-op student artists, watch glass-blowing demos and enjoy food and drink from Sauce and Bread Kitchen and Revolution Brewery. Environmental Encroachment and El is The Sound of Joy perform live. Suggested donation of $15 benefits Co-op Image's youth arts education initiatives.

International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale

The Chicago Printmakers Collaborative's 23rd annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Sale runs today and Sunday from 11am to 7pm at the CPC Gallery, 4642 N. Western Ave. Browse silkscreens, block prints, etchings, lithographs and more by over 60 artists.

Lill Street Holiday Art Fair

The Lill Street Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., holds its first-ever Student & Faculty Holiday Art Fair from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Shop jewelry, ceramics, paintings and more by 100+ artisans while enjoying live music and cocktails. Free admission.

Damon Locks @ Corbett Vs. Dempsey

Damon Locks DJs at Corbett vs. Dempsey, 1120 N. Ashland Ave., 3rd floor, today at 3pm as part of the closing reception for an exhibition of Joyce Pensato paintings. Free.

SAIC Student Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's annual Holiday Art Sale is today and tomorrow, Nov. 18 & 19, in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for student-made original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more from 10am to 5pm today. Free.

Cornelia Arts Building Open Studios

Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., hosts its monthly open studio tonight from 6pm to 8pm. View art on two floors by CAB artists; work by guest artists will be shown in the lobby and mid-lobby galleries. The SamichBox food truck will be outside serving up sandwiches. Preview the show on Art Slant.

SAIC Student Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's annual Holiday Art Sale is today and tomorrow, Nov. 18 & 19, in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for student-made original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more from 11am to 7pm today. Free.

Vivian Maier Book Discussion @ DePaul Art Museum

Co-authors Michael Williams and Rich Cahan will discuss their newest book, Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows, at the DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton, this evening from 6-8PM.

The Opposite of Slick: Chicago's Screen Printers Opening

The exhibition The Opposite of Slick: Chicago's Screen Printers opens tonight at Loyola University's Ralph Arnold Fine Arts Annex, 1131 W. Sheridan Rd., with a reception from 5 to 6:30pm. Free.

MDW Fair

The MDW Fair, an exhibition of grassroots and independent art culture, returns this weekend, Nov. 9-11, at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St. From noon to 6pm today, explore the fair's 75-plus artists and watch or participate in events and performances. Admission is free.

Artisan Market Streeterville

Artisan Market Streeterville runs today and Sunday in the Ryan Family Atrium of Northwestern Hospital's Lurie Medical Center, 303 East Superior St., from 10am to 5pm. Browse more than 50 local artisans, as well as gourmet foods from local stores; view participants on Pinterest. Free.

MDW Fair

The MDW Fair, an exhibition of grassroots and independent art culture, returns this weekend, Nov. 9-11, at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St. From noon to 6pm today, explore the fair's 75-plus artists and watch or participate in events and performances. Admission is free.

Artisan Market Streeterville

Artisan Market Streeterville runs today and Sunday in the Ryan Family Atrium of Northwestern Hospital's Lurie Medical Center, 303 East Superior St., from 10am to 5pm. Browse more than 50 local artisans, as well as gourmet foods from local stores; view participants on Pinterest. Free.

MDW Fair

The MDW Fair, an exhibition of grassroots and independent art culture, returns this weekend, Nov. 9-11, at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St. Tonight from 7:30pm to midnight is the Vernissage opening reception; watch the Propeller Fund awards ceremony, then explore the fair's 75-plus artists and performers. Admission is free.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

SOFA Chicago

The 19th annual SOFA Chicago exhibition of "Sculptural Objects and Functional Art and design" runs Nov. 1-4 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View (and purchase, if you've got the money) work by hundreds of arts represented by dozens of galleries from around the world. The show is open from noon to 6pm today. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago

The 19th annual SOFA Chicago exhibition of "Sculptural Objects and Functional Art and design" runs Nov. 1-4 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View (and purchase, if you've got the money) work by hundreds of arts represented by dozens of galleries from around the world. The show is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago

The 19th annual SOFA Chicago exhibition of "Sculptural Objects and Functional Art and design" runs Nov. 1-4 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View (and purchase, if you've got the money) work by hundreds of arts represented by dozens of galleries from around the world. The show is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago

The 19th annual SOFA Chicago exhibition of "Sculptural Objects and Functional Art and design" runs Nov. 1-4 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Tonight's < href="http://www.sofaexpo.com/chicago/opening.htm">opening night reception is from 7 9pm -- get an early glimpse at work by hundreds of arts represented by dozens of galleries from around the world. Tickets are $50 online or at the door.

The Big Draw Chicago: Drawing Maps

The Big Draw Chicago concludes with a presentation today at 2-3:30pm at Berger Park Cultural Center, 6205 N. Sheridan Rd., on drawing maps with Dennis McCendon of Chicago Cartographics. Free.

Art, Wine and Entertainment @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th St., presents "Art, Wine and Entertainment," tonight from 7pm-10pm. The event, in conjunction with the museum's "Buried Treasures in African-American Museums" exhibit, will feature work by artists including Henry O. Tanner and Elizabeth Catlett, as well as live art demonstrations, music, spoken word and a museum tour. Tickets are $10; for more information, call 773-947-0600 x290.

Matthew Hoffman Opening @ The Coop

The Coop, 230 W. Superior St., 2nd flr., celebrates the opening of We're All In This Together, a new exhibition by Matthew Hoffman, with a reception tonight from 6:30pm to midnight. Free.

Bridgeport Art Walk

The Bridgeport Art Walk includes more than a dozen art shows at seven locations throughout Bridgeport, showcasing more than a hundred artists. See a list of events here, or a href="http://www.community-bar.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Bridgeport_Art_Walk_Map.pdf">download a PDF map. Most events begin at 6pm. Free.

Ivan Brunetti @ Energy BBDO

Energy BBDO, 410 N. Michigan Ave., hosts a Creative Salon event with cartoonist and comics scholar Ivan Brunetti today from 4 to 6pm. Brunetti will talk about his influences and evolution as an artist, and preview his upcoming book, Aesthetics: A Memoir. The event is part of the Big Draw Chicago festival, and is free.

Chris Ware @ Quimby's

Graphic novelist Chris Ware will sign his latest book, Building Stories, at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., today at 5pm. Free.

Logan Launch Festival

The Logan Launch Festival, celebrating the opening of UofC's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, runs Oct. 12-14 at the center, 915 East 60th St. Programming includes musical performances, art exhibits, workshops and lectures; see the event website for a full schedule. The festival runs from noon to 5pm today. Free.

Open House Chicago

Today go behind the scenes at more than 150 area buildings with Open House Chicago. Use their handy map or site list to see what's open and for how long.

MAS Context: Analog

MAS Context presents MAS Context: Analog, a daylong event of presentations and exhibitions intended to be an analog version of the print publication. The event runs from 1pm to 11pm today at New Projects, 3621 S. State St., with the program divided up into the topics of Practice, Visual Communication, Production and Curation. A closing party featuring DJ Dieter Roelstraete begins at 9pm. Free; RSVP to info@mascontext.com.

Logan Launch Festival

The Logan Launch Festival, celebrating the opening of UofC's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, runs Oct. 12-14 at the center, 915 East 60th St. Programming includes musical performances, art exhibits, workshops and lectures; see the event website for a full schedule. The festival runs from 10 to 11pm today. Free.

Open House Chicago

Today and tomorrow go behind the scenes at more than 150 area buildings with Open House Chicago. Use their handy map or site list to see what's open and for how long.

Generat.io/ns @ The Post Family

The Post Family opens Generat.io/ns, an art exhibition speculating on how today's technology might impact tomorrow, at the Family Room, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Ste. 202, from 7 to 10pm tonight. A few more details on Facebook. Free.

Logan Launch Festival

The Logan Launch Festival, celebrating the opening of UofC's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, runs Oct. 12-14 at the center, 915 East 60th St. Programming includes musical performances, art exhibits, workshops and lectures; see the event website for a full schedule. The festival runs from noon to 11pm today. Free.

Big Draw Day @ Cultural Center

The Big Draw Chicago and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events host Big Draw Day at the Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., from 1pm to 4pm today. Drawers and non-drawers of all ages are invited to create individual works on cardboard and build a collaborative sculpture. Free.

Urban Arts Expo @ Charles Hayes Center

The Chicago Black Authors Network presents its second annual Urban Arts Expo today from 11am-6pm. Held at the Charles Hayes Center, 4859 S. Wabash Ave., and hosted by WYCA's Darryll King, this event will feature book publishing workshops, performances by local Chicago dancers, singers and spoken word artists, and a special journalism workshop led by Radio Hall of Famer, WVAZ's Herb Kent. Admission to the event is free; the book publishing workshop is $10. For more information, call 312-786-6986.

Dreams in Jay-Z Minor Opening @ Blanc Gallery

Blanc Gallery, 4445 S. Martin Luther King Dr., celebrates the opening of Dreams in Jay-Z Minor, an exhibition of new works by artists Amanda Williams and Krista Franklin, with a reception tonight from 6pm to 9pm. DJ Jamal “JayToo” Jefferies spins. The show will be up through Dec. 29.

Opening Reception of Building Blocks: TRANSIT's Print Community

The opening reception of the 3rd annual Building Blocks: TRANSIT's Print Community takes place at the I Am Logan Square gallery, 2644 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 6-9pm. The art exhibition runs from Oct. 1-27.

Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk

Check out the latest pop-up galleries downtown on the Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk tonight from 5pm to 8pm. Start the tour at 108 N. State, 23 E. Madison or 77 S. Dearborn; full map here. Free.

The Big Draw: Discover Drawing

The Big Draw Chicago kicks off with a workshop at Catalyst Ranch, 656 W. Randolph St., tonight from 6 to 8pm. Brandy Abgerbeck leads "Discover Drawing," aimed at getting you to discover new ways to look at and use drawing in your daily life. Free, but registration required.

Ravenswood Artwalk

The 11th annual Ravenswood Artwalk, a "tour of arts and industry," runs Saturday and today along Ravenswood Avenue from Irving Park to Lawrence. Explore the many galleries, businesses and art studios in the area, and enjoy live music at Wilson and Ravenswood. The festival runs from 11am to 6pm today. Free.

2pm - Bubbly Creek
3pm - The Moses Gun
4pm - I Kong Kult
5pm - Four Star Brass Band

Spudnik Press Benefit Auction: In Progress

Spudnik Press is auctioning print, sketches, and other framed pieces of art made by a diverse group of artists to help pay for its recent expansion. Additional auction items will be provided by Star Lounge, Busy Beaver, Eye Works Festival, Bloom Yoga Studio and Museum of Contemporary Art. In Progress is from 6 to 10 pm at 1821 W. Hubbard Street, Suite 302 & 303. Admission is free, and there will be beer, signature cocktails, and food by Antique Taco.

Ravenswood Artwalk

The 11th annual Ravenswood Artwalk, a "tour of arts and industry," runs today and Sunday along Ravenswood Avenue from Irving Park to Lawrence. Explore the many galleries, businesses and art studios in the area, and enjoy live music at Wilson and Ravenswood. The festival runs from 11am to 7pm today, with an "afterparty" running till 10pm. Free.

1pm – Nana Zabic
2pm – Pamela Richardson
3pm – Amber and Zebulun
4pm – Lawless Brothers
5pm – I Lost Control
6pm – Tri State Blues Band
7pm – DJ BuddhaBean
7:15pm – Geronimo!
8:30pm – Canasta

Chicago I Love You @ Lilly's

The Chicago, I Love You festival continues at Lilly's, 2515 N. Lincoln Ave., with a panel discussion led by Marcus Gilmer on "Chicago Arts: Past, Present and Future..." at 8pm, followed by Wednesday night jazz at 10pm with Corbin Andrick. Free, 21+.

Expo Chicago

Expo Chicago, a new exhibition of modern and contemporary art and design, runs Sept. 20-23 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View works by hundreds of artists represented by 120 of the world's top galleries. Tickets are $20, or $65 for a four-day pass. The exhibition is open from noon to 6pm today.

Art on Track @ CTA Blue Line

Art on Track, the world's largest mobile art gallery, takes place this evening aboard a 6-car CTA Blue Line running between the Logan Square and UIC-Halsted stations. Each train car features a different Chicago artist or arts group. Passengers are invited to board the gallery train and engage with the artists and artwork. Purchase tickets in advance or at any of the four stops along the AoT train's route: Logan Square, Damen, Clark & Lake and UIC-Halsted. The train (and gallery) runs from 5-10pm. Afterwards check out the after party.

Expo Chicago

Expo Chicago, a new exhibition of modern and contemporary art and design, runs Sept. 20-23 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View works by hundreds of artists represented by 120 of the world's top galleries. Tickets are $20, or $65 for a four-day pass. The exhibition is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Expo Chicago

Expo Chicago, a new exhibition of modern and contemporary art and design, runs Sept. 20-23 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View works by hundreds of artists represented by 120 of the world's top galleries. Tickets are $20, or $65 for a four-day pass. The exhibition is open from 11am to 7pm today.

Black Art In America @ DuSable Museum

The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Black Art in America: A Conversation for the 21st Century," tonight from 7pm-9pm. Panelists, including Halima Taha, PhD and DuSable curator, Charles Bethea, will discuss the "Post-Black Art" movement as it relates African-American art collections, artists and art dealers. Free. For more information and to RSVP, call 773-947-0600 x290.

Expo Chicago

Expo Chicago, a new exhibition of modern and contemporary art and design, runs Sept. 20-23 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. View works by hundreds of artists represented by 120 of the world's top galleries. Tickets are $20, or $65 for a four-day pass. The exhibition is open from 11am to 7pm today.

A Day in Avondale

A Day in Avondale is a free street event showcasing dozens of businesses and artists in the Avondale neighborhood. Events run from 1pm to 7pm today along Milwaukee Avenue between Avers and Kimball and on Belmont Avenue between Kedzie and California; see the Facebook page for a full listing. There's an afterpartyfrom 7pm to 10pm at the Hairpin Arts Center, 2800 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs Saturday and today on Broadway between Belmont and Hawthorne avenues. Enjoy live music and food while exploring the work of more than 130 artists. The festival runs from 10am to 5pm today. $5 suggested donation.

Main Stage:
11:30am - Dave Sills
1pm - Save The Clocktower
2:30pm - Root Hog
4pm - Robbie Fulks

Garden Stage:
11am - Steve Hashimoto & Pat Fleming
12:15pm - Las Guitarras
1:30pm - The Modern Sounds
3pm - Tom Schraeder
4:30pm - Michele McGuire

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs today and Sunday on Broadway between Belmont and Hawthorne avenues. Enjoy live music and food while exploring the work of more than 130 artists. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm today. $5 suggested donation.

Main Stage:
11am - Frank and Dave
11:45am - Andrew Fraker and Sons
1:15pm - Dolly Varden
2:45pm - Las Guitarras de Espana
4:10pm - The Congregation
5:40pm - King Corey hosts The Jam

Garden Stage:
11am - Honey and the 45's
12:10pm - Wooden Rings
1:30pm - Jared Grabb
2:50pm - Spare Parts
4:20pm - Magic Carpet

Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows Opening

Thomas Masters Gallery, 245 W. North Ave., celebrates the opening of an exhibition of photographs from the book Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows, by Richard Cahan and Michael Williams, with a reception tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Free.

Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk

Check out the latest pop-up galleries downtown on the Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk tonight from 5pm to 8pm. Start the tour at 108 N. State, 23 E. Madison or 77 S. Dearborn; full map here. Free.

Druckworks Opening Reception

Druckworks: 40 Years of Books & Projects by Johana Drucker opens at the Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash, 2nd Flr., with a reception tonight from 5pm to 8pm. Free.

Ravenswood Remix

Ravenswood Remix, "Chicago's Recycled Art Fair," runs today and Sunday on the east side of Ravenswood Avenue between Belle Plaine and Berteau. Shop for art and crafts, attend workshops, enjoy food and music from noon to 10pm each day. $5 suggested donation benefits Hamilton Elementary School art programs.

12:45pm - Cold Blue Kid
2pm - School of Rock
3:15pm - Old Black and Blue Eyes
4:30pm - Village
5:30pm - The Damn Choir
6:30pm - Secret Colours
7:45pm - Like Pioneers
9pm - Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin

Ravenswood Remix

Ravenswood Remix, "Chicago's Recycled Art Fair," runs today and Sunday on the east side of Ravenswood Avenue between Belle Plaine and Berteau. Shop for art and crafts, attend workshops, enjoy food and music from noon to 10pm each day. $5 suggested donation benefits Hamilton Elementary School art programs.

12:45pm - Laura Joy
2pm - The Giving Tree Band
3:15pm - Di
4:30pm - Rock City Seven
5:30pm - Ballroom Boxer
6:30pm - Archie Powell & the Exports
7:45pm - White Mystery
9pm - BBU

Chicago Teases for the Strip

Chicago Teases for the Strip, a benefit burlesque show for the Burlesque Hall of Fame, stages at the Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Kiss Kiss Cabaret, Hot and Heavy Burlesque, Gorilla Tango, Michelle L'Amour's Chicago Starlets, Dolls of Doom, Angel Burlesque, Plan 9 Burlesque, Eve's Parlor and independent performers take the stage, culminating with the largest group striptease in Chicago. Tickets are $25 online or at the box office.

18x24 Gig Poster Pop-Up

Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave., hosts "18x24," a gig poster pop-up shop, Saturday and today from noon to 5pm. Browse and purchase concert posters made by printmakers from around the Midwest.

Bucktown Arts Fest

The 27th annual Bucktown Arts Fest runs 11am to 7pm Saturday and today at Senior Citizens Memorial Park, 2228 N. Oakley Ave. Browse the work of several dozen artists, enjoy live music and theatre performances, take a workshop and more. Admission is free; donations accepted.

18x24 Gig Poster Pop-Up

Rational Park, 2557 W. North Ave., hosts "18x24," a gig poster pop-up shop, today and Sunday from noon to 5pm. Browse and purchase concert posters made by printmakers from around the Midwest.

Lillstreet Fall Open House

Lillstreet Arts Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., holds its fall open house today from noon to 4pm. Explore the center's classroom spaces, artists' studios, gallery and more. Workshops will be given throughout the day; see the event page for a scheduleFree.

Bucktown Arts Fest

The 27th annual Bucktown Arts Fest runs 11am to 7pm today and Sunday at Senior Citizens Memorial Park, 2228 N. Oakley Ave. Browse the work of several dozen artists, enjoy live music and theatre performances, take a workshop and more. Admission is free; donations accepted.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival runs Aug. 17-19 on Morse Avenue and Glenwood Avenue, with music, theater, art and food from around Rogers Park and the city. The festival runs from noon to 9pm today. Free; donations accepted.

Morse Ave. Main Stage:
noon - Hannah Frank
1pm - Dylan Andrews Trio
2pm - The Chris Green Quartet
3pm - Jonas Friddle & The Majority
4pm - Roostersocks
5pm - Nicholas Barron Band
6pm - The Shadows of Knight
7:30pm - Urban Rhythm

Glenwood North Stage:
noon - In One Ear presents Peter Wolf and Friends
1pm - School of Rock Lakeview
2pm - Miki Croisant
3pm - Theo Ubique Presents
4pm - Kmang Kmang
5pm - The Lauren Wolf Band
6pm - Furious Frank
7:30pm - The Henhouse Prowlers

Glenwood South Stage:
noon - Tambours Sans Frontieres
2pm - Flurbyhoops
2:30pm - Lifeline Theatre kids series
3pm - Northside Dance Theatre
4pm - The Eddie Stevens 3
5pm - DJ Marc Moose Moder
7pm - Straight Ethyl

A 10pm aftershow at Morseland, 1218 W. Morse Ave., features Good Music Sunday with Shawn T.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival runs Aug. 17-19 on Morse Avenue and Glenwood Avenue, with music, theater, art and food from around Rogers Park and the city. The festival runs from noon to 9pm today. Free; donations accepted.

Morse Ave. Main Stage:
noon - Impala Sound System
1pm - Jimmy Bennington
2pm - Soul Foundation
3pm - Room 11
4pm - Ode
5pm - Elephant Gun
6pm - Opposition Party
7:30pm - Environmental Encroachment Magic Circus Band

Glenwood North Stage:
1pm - Lou Shields
2pm - The Twin Peaks
3pm - Crusader
4pm - Black Umbrella Brigade
5pm - The Polkaholics
6pm - The Reunion
7:30pm - Sam Llanas (formerly of the Bo Deans)

Glenwood South Stage:
noon - Mandin West African Drum Ensemble
1:30pm - Peru Profundo Dance Company
2pm - SPACE
3pm - Lifeline Theatre kids series
4pm - Greg Dungan Fusion Five
5pm - The Sun Blisters
6pm - Shuteye
7pm - Ripley Caine and Full Moon
8pm - Hot Mess

A 10pm aftershow at Morseland, 1218 W. Morse Ave., features DJ Chris Underwood.

Catzilla! @ Prop Thtr

Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston Ave., is the setting for Catzilla!, a cat-themed performance and art show this weekend, Aug. 17-19. Check out cat art in the exhibition starting at 6:30pm tonight, then stick around for feline cabaret performances beginning at 8pm. Exhibition and performances continue on Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 3pm. Admission is $15 or pay what you can, with proceeds benefiting the theater.

Lowrider Car & Bike Show

The Chicago Urban Art Society, 600 W. Cermak Rd., hosts the second annual Low & Slow lowrider car and bike show today from noon to 8pm. The family-friendly event will showcase lowrider culture and also include a plaque ceremony, live music, food, drinks and a lowrider bike carousel for the kids. $5 suggested donation for adults, $2 for kids under 12. Proceeds benefit CUAS as well as the Chicago Lowrider Preservation Fund.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

Visiting Artists Series @ University of Illinois-Chicago

The University of Illinois-Chicago's African-American Cultural Center (AACC) presents "Visiting Artists Series," today from 4:30pm-6:30pm. This free reception and panel discussion, held at the AACC Gallery, 830 S. Halsted St., will feature exhibits by Chicago artists including Turtel Onli, Donna Radcliffe, Damon Reed, and more. For more information, call 312-996-9549.

Arts & Craft @ Public House

The Chicago Artists' Coalition hosts Arts & Crafts, an event showcasing contemporary art inspired by local craft beers, tonight at Public House, 400 N. State St., starting at 6pm. Industry of the Ordinary, Brent Fogt, Alexandra Lee, Nancy Lu Rosenheim and Shawn Stucky created works inspired by Solemn Oath's Oubliette, Finch's Threadless IPA and Golden Wign, 5 Rabbit Golden Ale and Goose Island's four sisters collection -- all of which will be on tap. Tickets are $30.

Forgotten Chicago's "The Bloomingdale Line" Discussion @ Comfort Station

This evening Terence Banich of Forgotten Chicago will present a lecture and discussion entitled "The Bloomingdale Line, a study of a former link to interstate commerce." The event runs from 7pm-9pm at the Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Also on view will be David Schalliol's photographs of The Bloomingdale. Free.

Youth Arts Showcase @ University of Chicago/Logan Center

The University of Chicago's Logan Center, 915 E. 60th St., presents "Youth Arts Showcase," today from 2pm-4pm. This free showcase, designed for ages 12 and up, will feature community youth in an exchange of dance, poetry, music, visual art, and an open mic. Special appearances by Kuumba Lynx, M.A.D.D. Rhythms, University of Hip Hop and more. RSVP to logancenter@uchicago.edu; for more information, call 773-702-ARTS (2787).

Screenprinting Session @ Metrospective

The Metro closes its Metrospective pop-up 30th anniversary exhibition in the Inland Steel Building, 77 S. Dearborn St., from 3pm to 5pm today with a discussion and live screenprinting session with Steve Walters of Screwball Press and Ryne Estwing and Dan Polyak from the Metro's design department. Come by and pull a print. Free.

Brain Frame One Year Anniversary

Brain Frame comics reading celebrates its one year anniversary Saturday July 28 with creator Lyra Hill and a cast that includes Andy Burkholder , Mairead Case (collaborating with David Lasky), Ian McDuffie, Nicholas O'Brien and Leslie Weibeler. The show begins at 8pm, at the Gallery formerly known as Happy Dog, 1542 N Milwaukee ave. 2nd floor.

The Bloomingdale Exhibition Opening @ Comfort Station

David Schalliol is exhibiting photographs from his project about The Bloomingdale, a near northwest side former rail line that is being converted into a park and trail. The opening is from 7pm-10pm at the Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. The exhibition runs from July 20-August 26.

Broken Peanut Casino @ Peanut Gallery

The Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., hosts its annual fundraiser today from 1pm to 9pm. In the "Broken Peanut Casino," visitors will use art as currency. A $5 donation will get you either art or the supplies to make some; use that art to bet in blackjack, cee-lo and other games. There will also be a silent auction for art, music, gift certificates and more.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square

The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events run from 11am-10pm today on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square

The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Today events run from 11am-10pm on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square

The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival kicks off three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events start this afternoon at 4pm and run all weekend on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.

Wanderlust Art Fest @ Bottom Lounge

The Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., hosts Wanderlust Art Fest in the Volcano Room at 6pm tonight. View the work of more than 15 artists and, if you're one of the first 75 people through the door, enjoy a pig roast -- pulled pork plus sides for just $5 a plate. Admission is free. 21+

Bookstore Bike Crawl

Today starting at 1pm at Heritage Bicycles, 2959 N. Lincoln Ave., go on a bookstore crawl by bike. The crawl will take you to Powell's North (2850 N. Lincoln Ave.), Bookworks (3444 N. Clark St.), Unabridged (3251 N. Broadway), Quimby's 1852 W. North Ave.) and Open Books 213 W. Institute Pl.), and ends at Powell's University Village, 1218 S. Halsted St., at 7pm, where where there will be a reception for a bikes and books art show featuring work by Kyle Baker, Todd Irwin, Deborah Maris-Lader, Jay Ryan, Maria Sanchez, Shawn Stuckey, Michael Una and Julia Victor. Free; RSVP on Facebook.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

Show 'n Tell Show @ Lincoln Hall

Tonight at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., The Show 'n Tell Show does a Flatstock Edition in conjunction with the annual poster fair at the Pitchfork Music Festival. Michael Renaud, Zach Dodson host an evening with poster makers Steve Walters of Screwball Press, Burlesque of North America, The Silent Giants, Casey Burns and Sonnenzimmer. It's part of Lincoln Hall's Pitchfork Festival Weekend. Tickets are $5. 21+

Stacey Rozich Opening @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Tonight at 7pm, the Chicago Urban Art Society hosts an opening reception for Seattle-based illustrator and graphic designer Stacey Rozich. The show runs through Aug. 4. Free.

Hold Fast Opening @ CAC Gallery

Chicago Artists' Coalition, 217 N. Carpenter St., holds an opening reception tonight from 6pm to 9pm for Hold Fast, a solo show by fiber artist Marty Burns. Free.

Little Friends of Printmaking Opening @ Inkling

Inkling, 2917-1/2 N. Broadway, celebrates the opening of an exhibition of screenprints by Milwaukee's The Little Friends of Printmaking with a reception tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Refreshments will be served, and posters will be viewed and sold.

Vivian Maier Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Corbett vs. Dempsey, 1120 N. Ashland Ave., 3rd floor, opens an exhibition of Vivian Maier original photographic prints from the collection of Ron Slattery (read previous GB coverage) tonight from 5pm to 8pm. The show will run through July 21.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

This weekend marks the first-ever Chicago Alternative Comics Expo June 16 and 17. Both days offer panel discussions, workshops and a tabling expo of local, national and international independent comics artists. The event is free and open to the public from 11am to 6pm at 1104 S. Wabash.

Custer's Last Stand

The 41st annual Custer's Last Stand Festival of the Arts runs Saturday and today, June 16-17 in Evanston between Sherman Avenue and Chicago Avenue from Main Street south to Madison Street. Enjoy music on two stages; browse booths featuring art, fashion, antiques and other collectibles; and sample food from more than 30 restaurants. An "EcoVillage" at Sherman and Main showcases green and organic products and services. Admission is $1, benefiting Piccolo Theatre. The festival is open from 10am to 9pm each day.

Show Stage
11am - Native American Dance Troupe
12:30pm - Mark Cleveland Band
2:30pm - Paul Maslin Group
4:15pm - Radio Disney
5:30pm - Angel d' Cuba

Festival Stage
11am - Kent McDaniel Band
12:30pm - John Temmerman Quartet
2:30pm - Evanston Township High School
4:30pm - Dee Alexander Jazz Band
7pm - Chicago Catz

Artists of the Wall

Artists of the Wall, the annual festival during which Rogers Parkers paint murals on the concrete bench along the lakefront in Loyola Park Beach, is this weekend from 9am to dusk. Free to watch; more details here.

Chicago Alternative Comics Expo

This weekend marks the first-ever Chicago Alternative Comics Expo June 16 and 17. Both days offer panel discussions, workshops and a tabling expo of local, national, and international independent comics artists. The event is free and open to the public from 11am to 6pm at 1104 S. Wabash.

Custer's Last Stand

The 41st annual Custer's Last Stand Festival of the Arts runs today and Sunday, June 16-17 in Evanston between Sherman Avenue and Chicago Avenue from Main Street south to Madison Street. Enjoy music on two stages; browse booths featuring art, fashion, antiques and other collectibles; and sample food from more than 30 restaurants. An "EcoVillage" at Sherman and Main showcases green and organic products and services. Admission is $1, benefiting Piccolo Theatre. The festival is open from 10am to 9pm each day.

Show Stage
11am Native American Dance Troupe
12:30pm - Hurricane Saxophone Quartet
2pm - Kraig Kenning
3pm - Rockin Johnny Blues Band
5:30pm - Corky Siegel

Festival Stage
11am - Evanston School of Rock
1:30pm - Mandy & the Bandits
2:45pm - Ajoite Drummers
4pm - De'Tour Jazz
7pm - Funkadesi

Rews Bazaar @ Rewsters

Rewsters Cafe in Logan Square announces the first of a series of bi-monthly art and craft bazaars. The event takes place from 10am to 6pm and features various artists from around the city, live DJs and a BYO bloody mary bar. This event is free to the public and 18+. More information can be found here.

Artists of the Wall

Artists of the Wall, the annual festival during which Rogers Parkers paint murals on the concrete bench along the lakefront in Loyola Park Beach, is this weekend from 9am to dusk. Free to watch; more details here.

The Guerrilla Truck Show

The Guerrilla Furniture and Art Truck Show, organized by Morlen Sinoway Atelier, takes over Fulton Market between Morgan and Racine from 5:30pm to 9:30pm, with trucks and stores displaying work by independent designers and artists. There's a full map on Facebook. Free.

Do Division

The sixth annual Do Division street festival runs three days this year -- June 1-3 -- on Division Street between Ashland and Damen avenues. The festival runs from noon to 10pm today, with music on stages at Damen and Leavitt, and more than 300 vendors selling clothing, accessories, art and crafts. Family Fun Fest gives the kids something to do, too. $5 suggested donation.

Damen Stage:
1pm - Eiren Caffall
2:30pm - People's Temple
4pm - Teengirl Fantasy
5:30pm - Cory Chisel & The Wandering Sons
7pm - Pinebender
8:30pm - The Antlers

Leavitt Stage:
4pm - Young Jesus
5pm - Mutts
6pm - Gypsyblood
6:45pm - The Soft Pack
8pm - Murder By Death

57th Street Art Fair

The 64th annual 57th Street Art Fair runs Saturday and today, June 2-3, in Hyde Park. More than 250 artist booths run along 57th Street between Woodlawn and Kenwood, and on Kimbark Avenue from 56th to 57th. The fair is open from 10am to 5pm today. Admission is free.

Do Division

The sixth annual Do Division street festival runs three days this year -- June 1-3 -- on Division Street between Ashland and Damen avenues. The festival runs from noon to 10pm today, with music on stages at Damen and Leavitt, and more than 300 vendors selling clothing, accessories, art and crafts. Family Fun Fest gives the kids something to do, too. $5 suggested donation.

Damen Stage:
1pm - Chris Connelly
2:30pm - In Tall Buildings
4pm - Mannequin Men
5:30pm - Craig Finn
7pm - Besnard Lakes
8:30pm - Peanut Butter Wolf

Leavitt Stage:
3:45pm - Magic Milk
4:45pm - The Blind Staggers
5:45pm - Brown Bird
6:45pm - White Mystery
7:45pm - O'Death
9pm - Le Butcherettes

57th Street Art Fair

The 64th annual 57th Street Art Fair runs today and Sunday, June 2-3, in Hyde Park. More than 250 artist booths run along 57th Street between Woodlawn and Kenwood, and on Kimbark Avenue from 56th to 57th. The fair is open from 11am to 6pm today. Admission is free.

Dan Grzeca Opening @ Inkling

Inkling, 2917-1/2 N. Broadway, celebrates its second anniversary with a party and opening reception for an exhibition of screenprints by Dan Grzeca tonight from 6pm to 10pm.

Mixed Mamas at Links Hall

Mixed Mamas is an autobiographical choreo-poem about motherhood, diversity, womanhood, growing up and everything in between. Tonight and tomorrow at 8PM, Sunday at 7PM at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield, Suite 20. Tickets available online with student and senior discounts.

At Work Forum @ Cultural Center

Tonight at 6pm at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington Ave., 5th floor, Chicago Artists Resource hosts a panel discussion about how to turn your art experience into a job that pays the rent. Christie Anderson from Columbia College, Keith Griffith from Groupon, Nick Keenan from Marshall Creative and Rose Walker from Creative Circle give advice on how to market artistic skills in a way that looks great on a resume. CAR's John Carnwath moderates. Free.

Comics Philosophy & Practice Conference

The Richard and Mary L. Gray Center for Arts and Inquiry and the Mellon Residential Fellowship Program for Arts Practice and Scholarship present the Comics Philosophy & Practice Conference at The University of Chicago's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., May 18-20. Day three features panels with Ben Katchor, Ivan Brunetti, Lynda Barry, Gary Panter and Robert Crumb. More info including a complete schedule can be found here. Registration is free.

8 x 8 @ The Coop

In the spirit of artistic collaboration, The Coop and Gapers Block teamed up to produce 8x8, an experiment in writing and design. Eight Chicagoland designers (Jesse Hora, Andy Luce, Chad Kouri, Ina Weise, Letterform, Ryan Sievert, Paul Octavious and Kyle Fletcher) were paired with eight local writers (Patrick Somerville, Claire Zulkey, Ramsin Canon, Kevin Guilfoile, William Shunn, Veronica Bond, Wendy McClure and Scott Smith) to create collaborative works, with text informing and influencing art and vice versa. The results of this experiment are presented in limited edition poster form, with writing and design back to back. The posters make their debut at a reception tonight at The Coop, 230 W. Superior St., 2nd floor, from 6pm to 10pm. Limited edition sets of the posters will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting Open Books.

Cornelia Arts Building Spring Open House

Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds an open house tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Visit the studios of more than two dozen artists. Free.

May Art Show @ Rewsters

The monthly art show at Rewsters, 3152 W. Diversey Ave., features Erica Ann for the month of May. The opening at 8pm tonight features DJ Phil Stone. BYO.

Daniel Clowes signing @ Quimby's

Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., welcomes back renowned artist Daniel Clowes, subject of the new book The Art of Daniel Clowes: Modern Cartoonist, for a book signing tonight at 7pm.

Collect-O-Rama

Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents Collect-O-Rama, a sort of garage sale for collectors of outsider and folk art, today from 10am to 4pm at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St. Free.

Manual Labor Opening @ Post Family

The Post Family opens Manual Labor, a group show of art inspired by skilled trades, tonight from 7pm to 10pm, at The Post Family's gallery, The Family Room, 1821 W. Hubbard St., # 202. Check out work by sign painter Jeff Canham, the furniture making of Strand, the re-manufactured wood type of printmaker Don Kilpatrick, small batch brewing by Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar, axes by Best Made Co. and more. Free.

2nd Fridays Gallery Night

During 2nd Fridays Gallery Night the galleries in Pilsen's Chicago Art District throw open their doors for an evening of free receptions. From 6pm until 10pm you can explore the galleries and studios near the intersection of South Halsted and 18th Streets. Not sure where to go? Maps are available at 1821 S. Halsted. All the events are free. More information is on their website.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

Artrageous on Clark Street

Artrageous is a day of art and food events showcasing businesses on or near Clark Street in Lincoln Park, sponsored by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce. From 10am till 5pm, art events take place at 2532 N. Clark St. and food events take place at 2324 N. Clark St. All events are free. See the website for details.

Opening for street artist Nice-One @ Inkling

Inkling brings back Nice-One for a month-long residency at this Lakeview gift and local craft store. Nice-One will bring to Inkling "The CTA Experience" a journey to the end of the line on every line; a collection of paintings, photographs, mix media inspired by riding on Chicago's CTA. The entire gallery wall will be covered in a mural, the artwork for sale will be incorporated over it.Opening reception is tonight from 6-10pm at Inkling, located at 2917 1/2 N. Broadway St. Read more about the installation. RSVP on Facebook.

Mofest @ Portage Theater

The seventh annual Mofest festival of film and arts takes over the Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave., April 21 & 22. Tonight from 6pm to midnight, see short films from all genres by local independent filmmakers, browse two galleries of art, and enjoy complementary drinks and food. Full details and RSVP on Facebook. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Entry on Sunday is free with ticket stub.

StudioChris Bucktown Poster Release Party

StudioChris celebrates the release of its latest neighborhood poster, Bucktown, today from 2pm to 5pm at the Bucktown Pub, 1658 W. Cortland Ave. Free; more details on Facebook. 21+

Comic Art Battle @ Hideout

The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., is the scene for The Comic Art Battle, a fundraiser for the the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (which happens June 16 & 17). Ezra Clayton Daniels referees a drawing fight between Aaron Renier, Jo Dery, Brooks Golden, Susan Sarandon, David Alvarado, Krystal DiFronzo, Joe Tallarico, Onsmith and Jeremy Pettis. Doors open at 7pm, battle begings at 7:30pm. $5 at the door. 21+

Jules Feiffer @ Jean Albano Gallery

Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Jules Feiffer will be in town today in honor of the 51st anniversary of The Phantom Tollboth. He will also be signing copies of his memoir, Backing Into Forward. Jean Albano Gallery, 215 W. Superior, April 7 at noon to 3pm.

Rock for Kids charity art exhibit @ Hinge Gallery

Rock For Kids will be hosting Shifting Focus, a fine arts exhibit held one night only &mdsah; tonight — at the emerging contemporary art gallery Hinge from 6-9:30pm. The event is free to attend and will exhibit various works from seven different contemporary artists: Zack Balber, Tim Buwalda, Typoe, Debbie Carlos, Alex Colindres, Sarah Newby, and Lucia Palmarini, all at various stages in their careers. A portion of all proceeds will benefit Rock for Kids as well as further arts education. Hinge Gallery is located at 1955 W. Chicago Ave. More on Facebook.

David Sprecher Opening @ Peanut Gallery

Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., holds an opening reception tonight from 5pm to 9pm for FOOL, an exhibition of new work by artist David Sprecher. The show runs through April 29. Free.

Paintings by Mario Desa @ Firecat Projects

Come to Firecat Projects (2124 N. Damen Ave.) for the opening of You might live, but you won't love, paintings by Mario Desa. Beer by 3 Floyds, wine by Red and White Wines Chicago. This event is free, and runs 7-10pm. For more information visit Firecat Projects or Mario Desa.

Typeforce 3 @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The third annual Typeforce exhibition of typographic arts, opens tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7pm to 11pm. Work by more than two dozen artists will be on display. Free.

Ab(e)ducted! Art Show @ Cole's

In December, someone stole the velvet portrait of Abraham Lincoln from Cole's Bar, 2338 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tonight from 8pm to 11pm, check out Abe-inspired art, music and more. Details on Facebook. Free. 21+

Cornelia Arts Building Spring Open House

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., hosts its annual spring open house tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Explore the work of more than 40 artists in a number of disciplines. Free.

Trubble Club Release Party

The Post Family, 1821 W. Hubbard St, #202, hosts a release party for Trubble Club Issue #5 tonight from 7pm to 10pm. Pick up the issue, potentially watch some of the club's members do a live collaborative cartoon, and check out original drawings. More info here. Free.

STUCK UP Closing Reception

Maxwell Colette Gallery, 908 N. Ashland Ave., holds a closing reception tonight from 6pm to 10pm for the show STUCK UP: A Selected History of Alternative & Pop Culture Told
Through Stickers
curated by DB Burkeman. Free; details on Facebook

Kevin O'Rourke art opening @ Inkling

Lakeview gift and art shop Inkling is hosting an opening reception tonight for artist Kevin O'Rourke. His collection of linoleum block prints focus on Chicago music and entertainment venues such as the Green Mill, Aragon, and more. (See a full gallery of some of his work on the store's blog.) The opening reception takes place tonight from 6-10pm at 2917 1/2 N. Broadway. 773-248-8004. RSVP on Facebook. FREE.

Guerilla Girls Opening @ A+D Gallery

Guerrilla Girls: Not Ready to Make Nice, a retrospective of artwork and activism by the Guerilla Girls collective, opens today at the A+D Gallery at Columbia College, 619 S. Wabash Ave., with a public reception from 5pm to 8pm. At 6pm, curator Neysa Page-Lieberman leads a Q&A with members of the Guerrilla Girls at the Conaway Art Center, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. Both events are free.

Heart Healthy Fundraiser @ Sacred Art

Sacred Art is having a fundraiser this afternoon in honor of American Heart Month. Stop by from noon to 8pm at the store (4619 North Lincoln Avenue) for raffle prizes, heart health information, dog adoptions, and much more.

Artist Talk with Elaine Luther @ Harold Washington Library

The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., presents "Artist Talk with Elaine Luther," today at 2pm. Luther will discuss the inspiration behind her latest library exhibit, "You Oughta Get a Medal for That!" Metalwork by Elaine Luther, a work that centers on "medals you wouldn't really want to earn." Free. For more information, call 312-747-4300.

Night Lab: The Science of Love and Attraction @ Schubas

Science is Sexy brings you a night of learning the science behind l'amour and all that other smooshy stuff in addition to research on online dating, and how sex is portrayed in films. NU Psychology professor Eli Finkel and Rebecca Fons of the Chicago International Film Festival will be in attendance to talk and be talked with. Are you that special someone? Event is at Schubas (Belmont and Southport) from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Free.

Super Button Mashers @ OHNO!DOOM ARCADE

The OhNo!Doom gallery, 1800 N. Milwaukee, becomes the OhNo!Arcade tonight as it hosts it's Super Button Mashers exhibit from 6pm to 10pm. The night will feature an eclectic arsenal of artists from the city and beyond including Jeremiah Ketner, Aya Kakeda, Max Bare and many more. The deal maker may very well be the local eats by Duck N Roll, coffee courtesy of The Wormhole, and brew brought to you by LowDive.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

"Quad Core" Opening Reception

"Quad Core," a group art exhibition of works by Theodore Darst, Paul Hertz, Selena Jones and Sabina Ott, holds an opening reception tonight at 23 E. Madison Ave. from 5pm to 8pm. Kimberly Kim's Book Club will also make its debut at the reception. The exhibition, which is part of the Pop-up Art Loop series, runs through March 10. Free.

Big Big City: Chicago

Art blog Big Big Things is orchestrating Big Big City: Chicago, an art pop-up art market at Public Works Gallery, 1539 N. Damen Ave., 2nd floor, tonight from 5pm to 9pm. Shop the works of 20-plus artists and design studios, and partake in a bake sale and raffle to benefit 826CHI. Free.

Noon Moons art exhibition

The Sun Ra/El Saturn Commissions series presents the opening of "Noon Moons," featuring prints by local artist and lead singer for The Eternals Damon Locks and animated video by The Eternals, writer/performer Terri Kapsalis, and animator Rob Shaw. The event is from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Experimental Sound Studio (5925 N. Ravenswood Ave). Screenings of the animation are at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Check here for more info.

Sky Lines Opening @ The Charnel House

Charnel House, 3421 W. Fullerton Ave., launches its new Chapel Projects space with the installation of Sky Lines, featuring installation by artist Robin Dluzen. The opening reception is tonight from 6pm to 9pm; the exhibit will be on view through Feb. 19. Free.

Opening: A Series of Poor Decisions @ Inkling

Join fellow art lovers for adorable (and affordable) art by local artist Brian Beard at Inkling in Lakeview. Enjoy beverages and bahn mi sandwiches while you browse. Valentine's Day gifts, cards, and Chicago-made arts and crafts also available for purchase, along with the entire show's artwork. RSVP and read more on Facebook. Inkling is located at 2917 1/2 N. Broadway Ave. The opening celebration runs from 6-10pm.

Lightness & Darkness Release Party @ Happy Dog

Brand-spankin' new multimedia book project Lightness & Darkness will throw its release party and first performance tonight at Happy Dog Gallery (1542 N. Milwaukee), a Wicker Park apartment gallery and alternative art space. For more information about Lightness & Darkness, and/or to support them on Kickstarter click here. For more information about the release event, visit the FB event page.

Lightness & Darkness "BABY SHOWER" Fundraiser @ Uncharted Books

Lightness & Darkness is crowning, guys! Shower the baby with your love at Uncharted Books, a brand spanking new book store in the heart of Logan Square. Grant Reynolds will be doing commissioned drawings for donations for the book as well as selling some of his own publications to benefit L & D! There will be snacks, refreshments and other sort of fun stuff available for small donations. The event is today from 3:30 to 7pm at Uncharted Books: 2630 N. Milwaukee. More info here.

Four Monologues @ Poetry Foundation

Four Monologues is an excerpt from author and poet Aram Saroyan's play, The Laws of Light, done as a staged reading. Taking place at the Poetry Foundation (61 W Superior) at 7pm, the reading coincides with a letterpress book release. The artist's book edition was created by students in the Book and Paper Arts MFA program at Columbia College Chicago. Reserve your spot here or call (312) 787-7070.

I Give You All My Money @ Renaissance Society

Cathy Wilkes's new exhibit, I Give You All My Money, opens at The Renaissance Society, a part of the University of Chicago. The exhibit, which was shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 2008, consists of found, symbolic objects, arranged to create a particular narrative and structure. The objects used range from mannequins and baby strollers to dried food and "soiled dishes." The Renaissance Society is located at 5811 S. Ellis. The opening reception is from 4-7 p.m. and Wilkes will speak from 5-6 p.m. Free.

Unfolding Space Opening @ Floating World

Floating World Gallery, 1925 N. Halsted St., celebrates the opening of Unfolding Space, an architectural installation featuring the work of architect Charlotte Page and the mezzotint prints of Japanese artist Yozo Hamaguchi, with a reception tonight from 6pm to 8pm. Complementary drinks by Koval Distillery will be served.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Arts District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

Architecture for Humanity "Holiday Hangover"

The Chicago chapter of Architecture for Humanity celebrates the new year with its third annual Holiday Hangover party at Black Cloud Gallery, 1909 S. Halsted St., tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Learn more about the group's projects, enjoy beer donated by New Belgium, wine by Noble Grape, whiskey tasting from Koval and food by Trader Joe's, and find out what the deal is with the ping pong balls. Free.

Opening reception: The Posters of American Music @ Old Town School of Folk Music

The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the opening reception for an exhibit of posters for folk and popular music, from the collection of the school, Ronald Cohen and the Peace Museum. The reception happens tonight at 6:30pm in the brand-new school space at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue, and is free and open to the public.

Free Scrappers Screening and Q & A @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue, is hosting a free screening of Scrappers followed by a question and answer session with the co-directors at 6pm tonight. The locally made film was included on Roger Ebert's list of the best documentaries of 2010. Additional information about the film is available in this interview with GB; additional screening details are available on the HPAC website.

Hideout Holiday Sale

It's free to attend this annual crafty sale nestled in the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. The Hideout Holiday Sale takes place tonight from 6-9pm. Bonus: this year learn about the Hideout 2012 CSA with Peasants Plot Farm. (After the sale, stick around for some banjo twangin' by The Black Willoughbys. $5 suggested donation, starting at 9pm.) 21+

Windy City Artist Alley

Chicago Urban Art Society and PseudoPress present the Windy City Artist Alley, a last minute holiday shopping opportunity. Browse items by local painters, printmakers, crafters and more from noon to 5pm at the Chicago Urban Art Society's new space at 600 W. Cermak Rd. Free.

Illinois Artisans Holiday Art Spree

The Illinois Artisans Program presents its Holiday Art Spree Dec. 14-16 in the Thompson Center atrium, 100 W. Randolph St., from 10am to 3:30pm. Browse the works of nearly 20 artists. Free.

Illinois Artisans Holiday Art Spree

The Illinois Artisans Program presents its Holiday Art Spree Dec. 14-16 in the Thompson Center atrium, 100 W. Randolph St., from 10am to 3:30pm. Browse the works of nearly 20 artists. Free.

Illinois Artisans Holiday Art Spree

The Illinois Artisans Program presents its Holiday Art Spree Dec. 14-16 in the Thompson Center atrium, 100 W. Randolph St., from 10am to 3:30pm. Browse the works of nearly 20 artists. Free.

Memoria (Memory) @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., holds an opening reception from 3pm to 5pm today for Memoria (Memory), an installation of a monumental memory game in progress that utilizes a myriad of images from, of and about Latinos in the United States of America. Call 773-324-5520 for more info.

Co-op Image/Glassworks Bazaar

Chicago Hot Glass, 1250 N. Central Park Ave., hosts the Co-Op Image and Glassworks holiday bazaar and benefit today from 1pm to 10pm. Shop for blown glass ornaments, artwork and jewelry, hot sauce and t-shirts. DJ Animal spins, and snacks and beverages made by local chefs will be provided. Free until 5pm, suggested donation of $15 from 5pm to 10pm. Proceeds benefit Co-Op Image's arts education and entrepreneurial programs.

ShopColumbia Holiday Market

ShopColumbia's Holiday Market runs today and tomorrow, Dec. 9-10, at 623 S. Wabash Ave. Browse artwork, crafts and gift items made by Columbia students and alumni. The shop is open from 11am to 5pm today.

In-Store Holiday Market @ Transistor

Music and more store, Transistor, is hosting an in-store holiday market with a number of local artists today from 1pm-6pm. Wares include silscreened CTA prints, lamps made from glass bottles, fused glass coasters and belt buckles by Kiku Handmade, photo-transfer tiles, yarn-wrapped instrument cables from Cordinated, jewelry, lamps from projectors from Works!, and more. Read additional info. on all the artists. Transistor is located at 3819 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-880-7420

ShopColumbia Holiday Market

ShopColumbia's Holiday Market runs today and tomorrow, Dec. 9-10, at 623 S. Wabash Ave. Browse artwork, crafts and gift items made by Columbia students and alumni. The shop is open from 11am to 7pm today, with a reception from 4pm to 7pm.

The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet @ Auditorium Theatre

The Joffrey Ballet presents its opening night of The Nutcracker tonight at 7pm at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Congress Parkway. Tickets to this holiday classic range in price from $30-$115.

Project Onward Holiday Sale @ Chicago Cultural Center

The Project Onward Holiday Sale will be selling original artwork on note cards, book marks, and hand-painted holiday ornaments by local artists in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center today. Featured artists will also take part in painting original portraits for $20 a piece or $100 for six pieces. Sittings for portraits can be reserved at (312) 744-8032 or info@projectonward.org.

Andy Warhol's Empire @ Art Institute

Warhol's massive 1964 film Empire, clocking in at just a little over eight hours and consisting of a single shot of New York City's Empire State Building, will be projected from the Art Institute's Modern Wing onto the 12 upper stories of the Aon Center this Friday. A joint project between the Graham Foundation and the Art Institute, the screening marks the opening of the Institute's new exhibit Light Years: Conceptual Art and the Photograph, 1964-1977. The outdoor screening will take place from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Fenn Fair Multiples Sale @ SHOP

Southside Hub of Production (SHOP), 5638 S Woodlawn Ave, is hosting Fenn Fair, a weekend exhibition and art/craft sale of multiples and reproducible objects. It is the kickoff of REPRODUCE+ABILITY. The exhibition will include printmakers, mixtape artists, self-publishers, photocopy artists, object and image-makers, and others. 11am-5pm. Free.

What's Your Art?: Celebrating Chicago's Art Centers @ The Cultural Center

Simultaneously embracing the holiday season and celebrating Chicago's rich landscape devoted to emerging artists and art education, "What's Your Art? Celebrating the Art Centers of Chicago" will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center (Yates Hall, 78 East Washington) today from 12 to 5pm. The event is free, but reservations are recommended. Across the city, remarkable places of art exhibition, classes, and public events exist to foster and inspire the development of art and culture. Each unique location has its own style, feel, and expertise and in an effort to share their mission and motivate those outside their regular audience, 12 extraordinary Art Centers from all across Chicago will come together under one roof. Additionally, new this year is the Marketplace where guests can purchase a variety of original artwork from the participating Art Centers perfect for the holiday season! There will also be a unique wrapping station where guests can add their own artistic touch. To RSVP and for more information, visit http://www.wbez.org/event/2011-12-03/whats-your-art.

Fenn Fair Multiples Sale @ SHOP

Southside Hub of Production (SHOP), 5638 S Woodlawn Ave, is hosting Fenn Fair, a weekend exhibition and art/craft sale of multiples and reproducible objects. It is the kickoff of REPRODUCE+ABILITY. The exhibition will include printmakers, mixtape artists, self-publishers, photocopy artists, object and image-makers, and others. Sales run from 11am-5pm, followed by music and screenings throughout the evening. Free.

World of Dance Tour @ Copernicus Theater

The World of Dance Tour, an international urban-dance-competition that's been moving, shaking, and breaking-it-down across the nation, makes its way to the Copernicus Theater, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave., tonight. Welcoming some of the most respected names in the industry from within the city and beyond, the performance promises a night of culture and creativity for all those with a craving for the urban arts. Doors open at 4pm and tickets are $25. For other tour dates and ticket purchases visit worldofdance.com.

Vintage Heaven "In the Black" Big Sale @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery is holding its Vintage Heaven "In the Black" Big Sale today and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm. Located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor, the non-profit gallery and art space showcases works from local artists and hosts vintage resellers once a month.

"Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want" @ Peanut Gallery

Peanut Gallery, 1000 N. California Ave., hosts an opening reception for its latest show, Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want: The Epistemology of Fine Art in Popular Culture, featuring new work by artist Jim Ricks, tonight from 5pm to 8pm. Free.

Plushform Show @ OhNo!Doom

OhNo!Doom Gallery, 1800 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrates the opening of a show featuring custom designed plush figures based on Shawnimals' Plushform blanks, from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free.

SAIC Holiday Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's annual Holiday Art Sale is today and tomorrow, Nov. 18 & 19, in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for student-made original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more from 10am to 5pm today.

Chicago Craft Mafia's DIY Trunk Show @ Broadway Armory

The DIY Trunk Show, featuring 129 area artists, presented by the Chicago Craft Mafia, is one of the longest-running indie, craft shows in Chicago, now in its ninth year. Admission is FREE. Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind, handmade, high-quality yet affordable items for all ages and genders, including jewelry of all types, clothing and t-shirts for adults and kids, bags and purses, stationery and paper products, housewares and lamps, ceramics, glassware and enamelware, fiber work and knitwear, photography, pet items, plush toys, candles, woodwork items, pens, wallets, soaps and body care products. Now in a larger location to accommodate more vendors, the DIY Trunk Show has built its reputation by supporting the Chicagoland craft community, encouraging emerging artists and crafters, and helping to promote local nonprofits and small businesses. The DIY Trunk Show will partner with Wishcraft to provide a kids crafting area, from 11am to 3pm for ages 4 and up. Free on-site workshops include Blue Buddha Boutique's earrings or zipper pull decorations. Free goody bags, including vendor products and coupons, will be given to the first 150 shoppers who make a purchase - first come, first served. The trunk show is today from 10am to 5pm at Broadway Armory Park (Edgewater): 5917 N. Broadway. More info here.

Empty Bowls Benefit

Empty Bowls, a benefit for Humboldt Park settlement house the Association House of Chicago, takes place tonight at Penguin Foot Pottery Studio, 2514 W. Armitage Ave., at 6pm. Enjoy locally made soup, music, pottery demos and workshops, a raffle and more. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Your ticket price includes a handmade bowl to take home.

SAIC Holiday Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's annual Holiday Art Sale is today and tomorrow, Nov. 18 & 19, in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. Shop for student-made original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more from 11am to 7pm today.

Appropriating Art: Art Theft Unveiled @ Chicago Artist's Coalition

This event exposes the depths of the art world rarely discussed: forgery, fraud, and theft. The evening will begin with a presentation and discussion with former FBI agent and art security consultant Robert Spiel. Following this discussion will be a screening of the Don Argott documentary The Art of the Steal, exploring the controversy behind the theft of pieces from the Barnes Collection (Philadelphia). For more information click here or call 312-491-8888. The event will take place tonight at 6:30pm at the Chicago Artists Coalition, 217 N. Carpenter St. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for everyone else.

Ezio Manzini: Design & Sustainability

Ezio Manzini, professor of design at the Politecnico di Milanogive, lectures design and sustainability tonight at 6pm, in Columbus Auditorium at the School of the Art Institute, 280 S. Columbus Dr. Following the lecture will be a panel discussion moderated by Victor Margolin, professsor emeritus of design history at UIC, featuring Manzini; George Aye, assistant professor of design at SAIC; Gabe Klein, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Transportation; Marisa Novara, project manager for the Metropolitan Planning Council; Dan X. O’Neil, executive director of Smart Chicago; John Tolva, chief technology officer of the City of Chicago; and Karen Weigert, chief sustainability officer of the City of Chicago. The event is hosted by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Department of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects as part of the the William H. Bronson & Grayce Slovet Mitchell Lecture Series. Doors open at 5:45pm. Free.

Handmade Holidays Craft Fair @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Today's HANDMADE HOLIDAYS CRAFT FAIR features over 30 vendors, selling their hand-made crafts at the fair, including: clothing, jewelry, pottery, leather goods, soaps, paintings, silk-screens, etc. and an additional 15 vendors selling homemade food. The first and second place winners of the Sixth Annual Feria del Mole will be selling their famous mole. This fair takes place today from 11am to 6pm at the Chicago Urban Arts Society at 2229 South Halsted Street. The Second Annual Craft Fair a fundraiser to benefit programs at Universidad Popular and to help support the Students for Students scholarship. More info here.

Amos Kennedy @ Lillstreet

Letterpress printmaker Amos Kennedy will be at the Hummingbird Press in the Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., from 5pm to 8pm for a reception and screening of his film, Proceed and be Bold! Free.

Art in Motion Gala @ River East Art Center

A&BC's annual benefit gala - Art in Motion - is today from 5:30 to 10pm, at the River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois Street. This event will feature cocktails, exciting silent and live auction packages, a savory dinner and exhilarating performances by local arts ensembles. This year A&BC's featured performers include the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Congo Square Theatre, Orbert Davis' Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, the People's Music School and Aloft Aerial Dance. For the first time ever, A&BC is offering a special Entertainment Only ticket, for $100, which includes after dinner cocktails and performances. Ticket registration is at http://www.artsbiz-chicago.org/events/ or 312-372-1876 ext. 223.

Powerless Comic Art Opening @ I Am Logan Square

Villains beware... I Am Logan Square is transforming into a comic book gallery! The opening reception is tonight from 6 to 8:30pm at I Am Logan Square's Gallery, located at 2644 N. Milwaukee Ave. Food and drinks will be provided by Rewster's Cafe and IALS's official gallery series sponsor, Revolution Brewing. The first 30 people to come will receive a goody bag filled with comic goodness provided by G-Mart Comics! More info here.

America: Now and Here @ Dorchester Projects

America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its third Chicago event to discuss community engagement and artistic practice as well as The Bloomingdale Trail. Artists and expert presenters include Eric Fischl, Dawoud Bey, Theaster Gates, David Schalliol, Beth White and Rebecca Zorach. The free event runs from 5:30-8pm at the Dorchester Projects, 6918 S. Dorchester. If possible, RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art

The 18th annual SOFA Chicago and the Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art occur side by side in Navy Pier's Festival Hall Friday through Sunday, Nov. 4-6. View sculptures, objects and functional art from galleries around the world, as well as outsider art from a number of galleries and dealers. The exhibitions will be open from noon to 6pm today. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass, available online or at the door.

PawPrint Ornament Workshop

Bring your furry best friend in to Penguin Foot Pottery, 2514 W. Armitage Ave., today to create a one of a kind ornament of their paw print. Add any other designs to the ornament and make it one of the best ornaments on the tree this year. $1/ornament.

America: Now and Here @ 30 East Cedar Street

America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its second Chicago event. Artists and expert presenters include Eric Fischl, Michelle Boone, Dawoud Bey, Jan Tichy and Erika Hanner. The free event runs from 2-5pm at the Sandra and Jack Guthman residence, 30 East Cedar Street. RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.

Eyeworks Festival of Animation

The Eyeworks Festival of Animation runs Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5 & 6, in DePaul University's CDM Theater, 247 S. State St., basement level. Program three begins today at 1pm; program four begins at 3:30pm. Each features animation by 10 artists. Tickets for each program are $6 online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art

The 18th annual SOFA Chicago and the Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art occur side by side in Navy Pier's Festival Hall Friday through Sunday, Nov. 4-6. View sculptures, objects and functional art from galleries around the world, as well as outsider art from a number of galleries and dealers. The exhibitions will be open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass, available online or at the door.

Eyeworks Festival of Animation

The Eyeworks Festival of Animation runs Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5 & 6, in DePaul University's CDM Theater, 247 S. State St., basement level. Program one begins at 3pm today and features animations by more than a dozen artists. Program two, a talk with animator Lori Damiano, begins at 6pm. Tickets for each program are $6 online or at the door.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art

The 18th annual SOFA Chicago and the Intuit Show of Folk & Outsider Art occur side by side in Navy Pier's Festival Hall Friday through Sunday, Nov. 4-6. View sculptures, objects and functional art from galleries around the world, as well as outsider art from a number of galleries and dealers. The exhibitions will be open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass, available online or at the door.

America: Now and Here @ The Hull-House Museum

America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its first Chicago event. Artists and expert presenters include Dawoud Bey, Kathy Dickhut, Dorothy Dunn, Indira Johnson, Lisa Yun Lee and Jason Reblando. The free event runs from 5:30-8pm at The Hull-House Museum, 800 S Halsted. If possible, RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.

Halloween Spooktacular 2011 Day 2 : Pumpkin Carving @ Challengers Comics

Come carve a pumpkin at Challengers Comics from noon-4pm. $10, children must be accompanied by an adult. Tools, stencils, and help provided. 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R.

Halloween Spooktacular 2011 Day 1 @ Challengers Comics

Daytime (3pm-5pm): All-ages treats and fun. Costumes encouraged. Nighttime (8pm-late): Grown-up treats and drinks. Costumes required. All hosted by Jill Thompson, creator of Scary Godmother. Free, but you should totally buy a comic to support one of Chicago's best comic book stores. All takes place at 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R.

The Art of Collecting @ Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center

Today at 2pm, the Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center, 1060 E. 47th St., presents "The Art of Collecting," with a panel of local artists, gallery owners, collectors and all around art enthusiasts who will discuss the value of collecting original fine art. This event is free, with a reception to follow (age 21 and up). For more information, contact culturedpearlsmembership@gmail.com.

Diane Christiansen @ Kasia Kay Projects Gallery

This ingenious Chicago artist brings her intriguing blend of painting, drawing, video and installation works to Kay's established West Loop gallery. Diane Christiansen, "Enough Space in the Head to Breathe," runs tonight through November 26, 2011 at Kasia Kay Projects Gallery, 215 N. Aberdeen St. Opening reception for the artist is tonight from 6-8pm. Artist's gallery talk: Sat., Oct. 29th, 12-1pm.

Urban Gateways' "Cut a Rug" Fundraiser @ Vecco

Join the New Arts Forum and Vecco Design Studio for this Urban Gateways benefit featuring complimentary appetizers, cocktails, and beer by Goose Island, a special dance performance by the nationally recognized dance crew FootworKINGz, DJ /dancing and the opportunity to bid on an original Chicago-inspired auction item created by Urban Gateways artists. This event begins at 6pm tonight at Vecco (912 W. Armitage). Admission is $10 in advance or $20 at the door. More info here.

MDW Fair + Hand in Glove Conference @ The Geolofts

Starting Friday and running through this weekend, The MDW Fair presents a Fall Showcase of solo and duo exhibitions curated by small not-for-profits, artist-run spaces, independent galleries, collectives and curators from around the country. This iteration of the MDW Fair runs in conjunction with The Hand in Glove Conference and will highlight innovative curatorial and administrative practices happening in independent arts initiatives. The Fall Showcase will focus on the practices of individual artists, offering the opportunity for each artist to mount an ambitious project. The Fall Showcase, like the previous MDW Fair, will also feature an independent arts publisher's forum. The fair is open today from noon to 6pm at The Geolofts (3636 S. Iron St.).

Third Coast FilmLESS Festival

The Third Coast International Audio Festival's Filmless Festival runs from 10am to 9pm today at the Joffrey Ballet Rehearsal Studios, 10 East Randolph St. The festival will feature a curated program of audio stories, including a live, multimedia edition of Jonathan Goldstein's "Wiretap" radio program. The festival ends with an awards ceremony beginning at 6:30pm hosted by Peter Sagal of "Wait Wait Don't Tell Me." A reception for the winning producers follows. Day passes range from $30 to $100, while individual screening tickets are $12 each; all are available online.

MDW Fair + Hand in Glove Conference @ The Geolofts

Starting Friday and running through this weekend, The MDW Fair presents a Fall Showcase of solo and duo exhibitions curated by small not-for-profits, artist-run spaces, independent galleries, collectives and curators from around the country. This iteration of the MDW Fair runs in conjunction with The Hand in Glove Conference and will highlight innovative curatorial and administrative practices happening in independent arts initiatives. The Fall Showcase will focus on the practices of individual artists, offering the opportunity for each artist to mount an ambitious project. The Fall Showcase, like the previous MDW Fair, will also feature an independent arts publisher's forum. The fair is open today and tomorrow from noon to 6pm at The Geolofts (3636 S. Iron St.).

Cartooning Workshop @ Lill Street Gallery

If you've an itch for cartooning, scratch it at Lill Street Art Center. Today and the next two Saturdays they're offering an intensive workshop on the art of storytelling taught by renowned local cartoonist Nicole Hollander (Sylvia). Touching on a wide range of influences from cave painting on, students will choose a significant moment from their lives and put it together with images to create their own personal story. Lill Street Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., October 22 and 29 and November 5 from 1-5pm. Class is $225 ($220 for LAC members); click here to register.

PHONEBOOK 3 Release Party @ threewalls

Fans and newcomers are invited to attend the release party for PHONEBOOK 3 at threewalls. PHONEBOOK 3 includes critical essays, a directory, and practical information on independent art spaces, programming, and projects throughout the U.S. Essayists include Renny Pritikin, Susan Sakash, Faheem Majed, Chances Dances, Paul Durica, Dara Greenwald, Amy Franceschini, Jon Brumit and Sarah Wagner, PLAND, Andy Sturdevant, Robby Herbst and more. The party begins at 8pm and lasts until 11pm. Hosted by and featuring a special edition of Salon Saloon, local artists, writers, designers and musicians are encouraged to share stories, photos, essays, and performances on a theme. Copies of PHONEBOOK 3 will be available for purchase. threewalls is located at 119 North Peoria, #2c.

MDW Fair Fall Showcase @ The Geolofts

Bridgeport's MDW Fair (pronounced Midway) returns this weekend for its Fall Showcase "of solo and duo exhibitions curated by small not-for-profits, artist-run spaces, independent galleries, collectives and curators from around the country." Organized in conjunction with the Hand in Glove Conference, which you must have regiustered to attend. MDW Fair is open to the general public. Join the Vernissage party this Friday, Oct. 21, from 8-11pm. The fair runs tonight through October 23 at The Geolofts, 3636 S. Iron St., noon to 6pm. $5 admission.

BYOB @ MCA

BYOB -- Bring Your Own Beamer -- is an international art exhibition featuring multiple simultaneous video projections. The Chicago edition is happening tonight at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 6pm to 8pm as part of the museum's new Internet Superheroes series. Free with museum admission.

Getting Past the Gatekeepers @ Harold Washington College

Panelists Elysabeth Alfano, the Creator and Executive Producer of Fear No Art, MartinJon, who is behind the video interview series ChicagoArts and Kelly Reaves the art editor at Gapers Block, discuss what attracts the press regarding covering art work. This Panel will be moderated by artist, author and professor Paul Andrew Wandless of Harold Washington College. So before you go to the first Thursday openings be sure to hit up this informative and artsy discussion.

Thursday October 6th
6pm - 8pm
Washington Hall
30 E Lake

BYOB Drinking and Drawing @ Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Arts

Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Arts, 1012 N. Dearborn St. 3rd floor, will be hosting their most requested event, Drinking and Drawing, tonight between 6pm and 9pm. Starting off the night will be a BYOB reception from 6-6:45pm, giving everyone a chance to socialize and enjoy their drinks. Following the reception will be instructor-led drawing session from 7pm-9pm, which includes drawing a live model. Let the creative juices and drinks flow while creating a piece of artwork. Tickets are $49 or $38 for early bird. All art supplies are included. 21+

Ravenswood ArtWalk

The 10th annual Ravenswood ArtWalk Tour of Arts & Industry runs Saturday and Sunday along the Ravenswood Avenue corridor, featuring more than 250 artists in 50 venues; pick up a map at the Central Gallery at 4021 N. Ravenswood. There will also be a street fair on Ravenswood from Montrose to Sunnyside both days, with music, art and food starting at 11am. Additional performances are scheduled for various venues along the walk; see the site for details. Free.

Ravenswood ArtWalk

The 10th annual Ravenswood ArtWalk Tour of Arts & Industry runs Saturday and Sunday along the Ravenswood Avenue corridor, featuring more than 250 artists in 50 venues; pick up a map at the Central Gallery at 4021 N. Ravenswood. There will also be a street fair on Ravenswood from Montrose to Sunnyside both days, with music, art and food starting at 11am. Additional performances are scheduled for various venues along the walk; see the site for details. Free.

GB Get-Together @ Ravenswood ArtWalk Opening Party

Join Gapers Block at the Ravenswood ArtWalk opening party tonight from 7pm to 10pm at the Ravenswood Event Center, 4011 N. Ravenswood Ave. The event doubles as the official kickoff of Chicago Artists Month and as this month's Gapers Block Get-Together. Join us for art, a silent auction, food from local restaurants, live music by Musikanto and a $10 open bar featuring wine and Revolution Brewing Co. beer. RSVP on Eventbrite. Free.

Screening of Urban Roots @ Chicago Center for the Performing Arts

Urban Roots is a story of the growing urban farming movement in Detroit. The film focuses on people from all over Detroit coming together to build a community on growing food. Doors open at 5:30pm for a reception before the film begins at 7pm. Once the film is over there will be a panel discussion of local experts along with Q&A. Tickets are $18 in advance $20 at the door. A portion of the proceeds from the film will go towards putting farms in schools. Cash bar. Chicago Center for the Performing Arts is at 777 N. Green St.

No Place Like Home Opening @ HPAC

This afternoon the Hyde Park Arts Center opens No Place Like Home, a photography exhibition curated by Dawoud Bey that features Chicago-based photographers Lisa Lindvay, John Lowenstein, Jason Reblando, Jessica Rodrigue, David Schalliol and Leilani Wertens. The opening reception runs from 3pm-5pm in Gallery 4 at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Ave.

Preservation Chicago Benefit @ Logan Square Arts Center

Preservation Chicago's annual benefit, "Le Festival de Preservation," runs this evening from 6pm to 9pm at the Logan Square Arts Center, 2800 N. Milwaukee Ave. Enjoy old world jazz, carnival performances, appetizers, an open bar (including Revolution brew) and a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased online for $85 in advance or $100 at the door. All proceeds from the tax-deductable tickets benefit the protection of historic architecture.

FearNoART with Jeff Zimmermann

Fear No ART host Elysabeth Alfano will be doing an in-depth conversation with Oak Street Beach muralist Jeff Zimmermann at the Apple Store of Lincoln Park, 801 W. North Ave., today at 7pm. They will be discussing how Zimmermann's mural came to be. Also learn how the making of the "Fear No ART series." There will also be Q&A time. Free.

Deadline for Proposals to MDW Fair

Today is the deadline for proposals to the likable MDW Fair, formed in protest over the treatment of small and not-for-profit art groups in the city by its more commercial brethren, such as Art Chicago. This breakaway-spirited Fair returns in October to Bridgeport's Geolofts.

Brilliant Corners of Popular Amusements @ Eckhart Park

This three-day-long event at Eckhart Park (1330 W. Chicago Ave.) features music from such acts as Shellac, School of Seven Bells and Sidi Toure, circus and acrobatics performers, a farmers market, the Renegade Craft Fair, and a fun walk/run. I wish more outdoor festivals were like this! Admission to some events is free; others run up to $20.

ART WAR @ Treasure Town

This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver -- with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire-spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. Tonight's event starts at 8:08pm. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.

Edgewater GRalley Festival

The Edgewater GRalley Festival runs from noon to 10pm at Granville and Greenview avenues, and features local businesses, artists and music -- plus a green pavilion. Funkadesi and Michael McDermott headline. Admission is $8 online, $10 at the door; family passes are $20 online, $25 at the door.

Art on Track

Art on Track, a mobile art gallery and garden on the CTA, circles the loop tonight from 5pm to 10pm. Enter at the Adams & Wabash station; admission is whatever it cost you to get there.

Dock 6 Collective Fall Design and Art Series Opening Party

Dock 6 Collective presents Fall Design and Art Series, curated by Hinge Gallery. The opening night party is tonight from 6pm to midnight, followed by Saturday, September 17 viewing hours from 11am to 3pm. Friday night refreshments will be served. Fall Design and Art Series features the work of the seven design companies that comprise Dock 6 Collective along with an exhibition of 13 artists curated by Hinge Gallery. Each artist has created a site specific piece that interacts within Dock 6 Collective's 24,000 sq. ft. raw workshop space. Artwork includes fiber installation, performance, light sculpture, and video. Featured design companies include Carson Maddox Studios, -ism Furniture, Lagomorph Design, Navillus Woodworks, SAP Design, Inc, Thomeworks, and zakrose. Exhibiting artists include Scott Ashley, Jeffrey Forsythe, Chris Lin, Raul Mendez, Rusty Shackleford, Ben Stagl, Russ White, Kayce Bayer, Karolina Gnatowski, Laura Lulu, Matthew Schlagbaum, Rana Siegel, Bill Talsma. Dock 6 is located at 4200 W. Diversey. Details here.

ART WAR @ Treasure Town

This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver, with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. This event starts at 8:08pm tonight and basically continues on until about 3am on Satuday night. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.

Opening Reception: Nathalie Gribinski @ Rewsters Cafe

Opening Reception at Rewsters Cafe, 3152 w diversey (Diversy and Kedzie). 6pm-10pm, BYOB. More information here

Built Festival

The Built Festival uses shipping containers to turn a vacant lot at 1767 N. Milwaukee Ave. into a pop-up festival venue, Friday night from 5pm to 10:30pm and today from noon to 10:30pm. Enjoy live music while you check out work by local artists and crafters. Admission is $10 in advance or at the door.

Built Festival

The Built Festival uses shipping containers to turn a vacant lot at 1767 N. Milwaukee Ave. into a pop-up festival venue, tonight from 5pm to 10:30pm and Saturday from noon to 10:30pm. Enjoy live music while you check out work by local artists and crafters. Admission is $10 in advance or at the door.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs Saturday and today on Broadway Avenue from Belmont to Roscoe. View works by more than 150 artists, enjoy food and music and browse the shops along the corridor. The festival runs from 10am to 5pm today. $5 suggested donation. Here's the music schedule:

Main Stage:
10:30am - Tribute to 9.11 Tenth Anniversary
11.30am - Guitarra Azul
1pm - Paper Thick Walls
2:30pm - Cole Degenova & the People's Republic
4pm - Dance Floor Plan

Garden Stage:
11am - Steve Hashimoto & Pat Fleming
12:15pm - Magic Carpet
1:30pm - Scott Wesley Band
2:45pm - Scientific Map
4:30pm - Fadrbooste

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts runs today and Sunday on Broadway Avenue from Belmont to Roscoe. View works by more than 150 artists, enjoy food and music and browse the shops along the corridor. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm today. $5 suggested donation. Here's the music schedule:

Main Stage:
11am - D'gobeat
noon - Lee Band
1:30pm - Las Guitarras de España
3:30pm - The Right Now
5:30pm - Tom Schraeder & His Ego

Garden Stage:
11am - Scott Wesley Band
12:30pm - Snow on Sunday
1:30pm - The Luna Blues Machine
2:45pm - Spare Parts
4pm - Magic Carpet

Toy Karma Opening @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., celebrates the opening of its latest exhibition tonight from 7pm to 10pm. Toy Karma features art inspired by classic Japanese toys. Free.

Fourth Annual After-Openings Dance Party @ Phyllis' Musical Inn

Take refuge from the drudgery of making the citywide gallery circuit tonight at the Fourth Annual After-Openings Dance Party at Phyllis' Musical Inn. Hosted by artists and local art world mainstays John Phillips and Nevin Tomlinson, the action starts at 9:30pm and rolls on until 2am.

Public School @ The Family Room

The Post Family presents Public School, a showcase of artwork by the Austin collective by the same name. The show opens tonight at The Family Room, 1821 W Hubbard St. #202, tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Free.

Button-O-Matic Party

Busy Beaver celebrates the release of its latest Button-O-Matic button set, "Superhero!" with a party at its storefront at 3279 W. Armitage Ave., tonight from 6pm to 9pm. The set features Jeffrey Brown, Lilli Carré, Anders Nilsen, Laura Park, Travis Lampe, Jay Ryan, Shawnimals, Cakespy, Wolfgnards.com, Box Brown, OhNo!Doom, Abbey Hambright, Denise Gibson and Erik Harms. Complimentary drinks, snacks and ice cream will be served, and the first 50 guests will receive a gift bag. Free.

YouTube Assembly @ The Nightingale

Catie Olson and Meg Duguid present a "10 Course Meal," the latest of Homeroom's YouTube Assembly series, at The Nightingale, 1084 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 8pm. Olson and Duguid will show YouTube videos comprising their concept of a 10-course dinner. $5 suggested admission. 21+

Hennessey Youngman @ the Museum of Contemporary Art

Influential humorist and art commentator Hennessey Youngman visits the Windy City tonight for "The Dialogue," an annual live-chat panel on "museums, diversity, and inclusion" at the Museum of Contemporary Art Theater (220 East Chicago Avenue), 6pm. This year's event with Youngman will focus on Millennials and their effect on museum issues, alongside "Chicago's Commissioner of Cultural Affairs, Michelle T. Boone, and our newest curator, Naomi Beckwith, formerly of The Studio Museum in Harlem." The MCA's press materials describe Youngman as "You Tube's most followed art theorist," and points out Art in America's description of his satirical Art Thoughtz program performances as "Ali G with an MFA." If you can't make it to the live event, check out the Live Tweet at @mcachicago, using the #thedialogue to participate in the conversation via tweet.

Unfinished Art: Guerrilla Girls and Art Education @ Hull House

Today beginning at 4pm at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum (750 S. Halsted St.) there are several interactive programs related to arts education and feminism in art. At 4pm Unfinished Business: Arts Education begins with a community curated and interactive arts presentation that explores the relationship of art in democracy. This "learning by doing" will involve a pop-up print shop where visitors can print a postcard to send to their legislator and 3 large looms will be provided to show visitors weaving techniques as a map of Chicago is created. Then beginning at 6:30pm (800 S. Halsted St.), the Guerrilla Girls will continue the public art intervention with their reinventing the "f" word--feminism. All events are free and open to the public and cupcakes will be available.

Makeover Anniversary @ Maria's Community Bar & Co-Prosperity Sphere

Join the party tonight to celebrate the 1-year anniversary of a makeover that transformed Bridgeport's favorite friendly neighborhood watering hole, located at 960 W 31st St, into the Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar. Craft brew fans will be delighted to know that "Half Acre, Three Floyds, 5 Rabbit and Dogfish Head are bringing a ton of their flagship and rare beers to the party." Events begin at Maria's at 4pm (until 4am), with Co-Prosperity Sphere events from 6-10pm, including an "all you can eat and drink" offer for $15 admission.

Guilt First Friday at the MCA

Mix and mingle amongst exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago while listening to fresh beats by DJ Madrid. Go on an exhibit scavenger hunt and get a sneak peak of the UBS 12 x 12 New Artists/New Work exhibition currently featuring abstract objects by artist Dan Gunn. Specialty cocktails will be available at the cash bar and guests will have the opportunity to unwind even further at the Equinox pampering station. Event runs from 6-10pm. 21+ only (ID required). The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is located at 220 E Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611. General admission is $18; advance tickets: $13; MCA members: $10. For tickets, visit mcachicago.org or call the MCA box office, 312-397-4010.

Exquisite Corpse Opening

Exquisite Corpse, a collaborative art exhibition curated by Jenny Lam, opens tonight at Fulton Street Collective, 2000 W. Fulton St., from 7 to 10pm tonight. Meet many of the artists, interact with art and create some of your own, get advice from the free advice booth. More info on Facebook. Free.

Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA

Need dinner plans tonight? Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Not only is admission free all day, but Tuesdays in the summer are also home to an open-air farmers market (open on the plaza from 7am-3pm) as well as Tuesdays on the Terrace. Take a seat on the terrace or throw a blanket down in the garden while you nosh, from 5:30 - 9pm. Enjoy live jazz and a dinner buffet catered by Puck's featuring fresh, locally grown produce. Space is limited, so call ahead for reservations 312-397-4034. Tonight's event is hosted by Al Carter Bey and will feature the music of Fred Anderson's Legacy Band. Cost of dinner buffet is $23 per person.

Call to Action: Our Road

Moving Design's Call to Action safe bicycling project culminates with Our Road, a multidisciplinary gallery exhibition and public engagement campaign on the advancement of bicycle safety, today from 11am to 3pm at Comfort Station Logan Square, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free.

Julia V. Hendrickson Reading @ Andrew Rafacz Gallery

Tonight Julia V. Hendrickson will release a new book of poetry entitled Grow No Moss at the Andrew Rafacz Gallery, 835 W. Washington Blvd. Julia will read selections from the book alongside performances by Mairead Case, Zach Dodson, Denise Dooley and Gabriel Wallace. Books, zines, and prints will be available for sale. Doors open at 6:30pm, reading begins at 7pm.

Tuesdays on the Terrace: Al Carter Bey and Josh Berman @ MCA

Need dinner plans tonight? Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Not only is admission free all day, but Tuesdays in the summer are also home to an open-air farmers market (open on the plaza from 7am-3pm) as well as Tuesdays on the Terrace. Take a seat on the terrace or throw a blanket down in the garden while you nosh, from 5:30pm-9pm. Enjoy live jazz and a dinner buffet catered by Puck's featuring fresh, locally grown produce. Space is limited, so call ahead for reservations 312-397-4034. Tonight's event is hosted by Al Carter Bey and will feature the music of cornet player Josh Berman. Cost of dinner buffet is $23 per person.

Ladyfest Midwest 10th Anniversary Celebration

This weekend Ladyfest Midwest celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a weekend of events happening around the city. Today's event: an exhibition of video, photographs, and materials from Ladyfest Midwest 2001. The exhibition is happening at LivingRoom Gallery 1530 W. Superior). The exhibition is open from 2 to 5pm today, and admission is free. Proceeds from the weekend's events will go to benefit the Chicago Women's Health Center. See the Ladyfest Midwest Website for full details.

Comfort Station Kegger

Comfort Station, 3016 W. Logan Blvd., hosts a benefit keg party tonight from 6pm to midnight. The evening will feature music, food by the Homage street food truck, face-painting, croquet, ping-pong, quirky film and slide show screenings, and, of course, beer from Revolution Brewing. A suggested $10 donation gets you a cup for the night; all proceeds benefit Comfort Station. 21+

What If... International Art Show

The What If... International Art Show explores the concept of parallel worlds through the eyes of more than 50 artists from around the world. The exhibit is on view tonight only, from 6pm to 10pm at River North Park, 321 W. Grand Ave. There will be free food, adult drinks, and DJ Major Taylor will be spin. Free.

Tuesdays on the Terrace: Yamaide Morrow and @ MCA

Need dinner plans tonight? Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Not only is admission free all day, but Tuesdays in the summer are also home to an open-air farmers market (open on the plaza from 7am-3pm) as well as Tuesdays on the Terrace. Take a seat on the terrace or throw a blanket down in the garden while you nosh, from 5:30pm-9pm. Enjoy live jazz and a dinner buffet catered by Puck's featuring fresh, locally grown produce. Space is limited, so call ahead for reservations: (312) 397-4034. Tonight's event is hosted by Yamaide Morrow and will feature the music of Maggie Brown. Cost of dinner buffet is $23 per person.

Get Stitchy!

You're crafty, right? You like sewing, knitting, crochet, macrame, tatting, etc. and you like plying your craft with other people. So why not go to Stitchy! A sewing party! at Roxaboxen Exhibitions. Folks will gather at 2130 W 21st Street (near the Pink Line Damen stop) from 7pm to 10pm to craft and chat. This month they'll get to listen to Anne Elizabeth Moore discuss her Garment Work exhibit being displayed at the MCA during the month of August.

56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple

The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.

56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple

The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.

Built Festival @ 1767 N. Milwaukee

Built Festival brings together over a hundred independent artists, projects, exhibitions, and performances, which expand on the festival's themes of urban culture, will open inside and out of our shipping container venues. Runs Friday 5-10:30pm, and Saturday 11am-10:30pm. Tickets are $10, to purchase, and for more info visit Built Festival.

Built Festival @ 1767 N. Milwaukee

Built Festival brings together over a hundred independent artists, projects, exhibitions, and performances, which expand on the festival's themes of urban culture, will open inside and out of our shipping container venues. Runs tonight 5-10:30pm, and Saturday 11am-10:30pm. Tickets are $10, to purchase, and for more info visit Built Festival.

56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple

The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.

Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA

Need dinner plans tonight? Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Not only is admission free all day, but Tuesdays in the summer are also home to an open-air farmers market (open on the plaza from 7am-3pm) as well as Tuesdays on the Terrace. Take a seat on the terrace or throw a blanket down in the garden while you nosh, from 5:30 - 9pm. Enjoy live jazz and a dinner buffet catered by Puck's featuring fresh, locally grown produce. Space is limited, so call ahead for reservations 312-397-4034. Tonight's event is hosted by Al Carter Bey and will feature the music of cellist Tomeka Reid. Cost of dinner buffet is $23 per person.

Tim Burtonwood Artist Talk @ Hinge Gallery

Tom Burtonwood's exhibition Permutations examines color and shape through a formalistic approach to paper compositions and three-dimensional wall reliefs. Visit Hinge Gallery (1955 W. Chicago Ave.) today at 4pm to hear/take part in a discussion with the artist about his work.

Garment Work

Anne Elizabeth Moore, activist, artist, instructor, author, editor, and kick-ass babe, will have her first performance of Garment Work tonight at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Come watch Moore and others take apart a pair of denim jeans during the First Friday performance and discuss the correlation between production, consumption, and women's issues.

Downtown at the COOP

Coworking space The COOP hosts a show titled Downtown at its new space at 230 W. Superior, Suite 2F. The reception tonight runs from 5pm to 11pm, and showcases work by Alex Fuller, Rod Hunting, David Sieren, Margot Harrington, Linsey Burritt, Crystal Grover, Mike McQuade, Jesse Hora, Delicious Design League, Andy Luce, Stephanie Bassos, Plural, Bud Rodecker, Eric Ellis, Julia Stotz and Brian Guido. Details on Facebook. Free.

Salonathon

Beauty Bar Chicago, 1444 W. Chicago Ave. hosts Salonathon, an artist showcase for works of art that defy traditional genres. The Salonathon's mission is to support the creation of new, emerging and underground art in Chicago and beyond. RSVP to chicagorsvp@thebeautybar.com. Specials include $3 drafts, $1 well drinks and $10 martinis + manis. Mondays at 9pm.

"Catastrophe" Opening

Chicago Urban Arts Society and Pop-up Art Loop co-host a reception for "Catastrophe - Work by Sarah Belknap and Joseph Belknap" tonight from 5pm to 8pm in the pop-up gallery space at 208 S. Wabash Ave. More details on Facebook. Free.

Milwaukee Ave Arts Fest

The stretch of Milwaukee between California and Kimball becomes a network of art galleries, performance spaces, and entertainment venues from Friday to Sunday. Music, food, and art are on the bill. Event runs today from noon-11pm.

Milwaukee Ave Arts Fest

The stretch of Milwaukee between California and Kimball becomes a network of art galleries, performance spaces, and entertainment venues from Friday to Sunday. Music, food, and art are on the bill. Event runs today from noon-11pm.

Smart Readings @ Smart Museum

This afternoon from 1pm-3pm at the Smart Museum (5550 S. Greenwood Avenue), poet Matthias Regan will begin a series of two workshops combining the sensibilities of reading and looking. Intended to "explore the relationship between figures and genres of personhood," each (free!) workshop consists of a brief lecture, tour of exhibit "Go Figure," and a conversation about related stories and poems.

The first of the two workshops, "Bodies Among Other Things," pairs Kerry James Marshall's painting Slow Dance with a short story by detective novelist Walter Mosley.

The second workshop will be held on August 14th.

After Dark in The Modern Wing @ The Art Institute of Chicago

Explore the after-hours side of The Art Institute tonight with After Dark in The Modern Wing (125 E. Monroe). Check out cutting-edge contemporary works and a live performance by indie electronic duo Rites with DJ sets by Disrupt the Scene and DJ Madrid. Complimentary appetizers with cash bar from 9PM to 12AM. $20 for members/students and $25 for everyone else.

Conversation & Cocktails: An Evening with Barbara Hashimoto

Chicago Artists' Coalition presents "Conversation & Cocktails: An evening with acclaimed artist Barbara Hashimoto." This event, taking place from 6pm to 8pm tonight at BauerLatoza Studio: 2241 S. Wabash Ave., will include an artist talk, a tour of the studio and a chance to experience Hashimoto's installations, as well as a cocktail reception. Tickets are on sale now. Space is limited. Tickets are $15 for CAC Collectors Circle Members and $40 for the general public.


Fear Itself: The Art of Stuart Immonen @ Rogues Gallery

Canadian comic book artist Stuart Immonen brings the art of "Fear Itself", Marvel's miniseries crossover event, to Challengers Comics. Yes, he will be there. 7pm, 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R. Check out his art, and buy a comic while you're there.

The Post Family's "Collections" @ Chicago Urban Arts Society

Chicago Urban Arts Society, 2229 S. Halsted St., opens Collections, an exhibition of work by The Post Family, tonight from 6pm to 11pm. Free.

NIGHT OF THE NOISE WOMEN!

A wild event featuring powerful women of the local noise scene!
All Extinct Animals, Call Me on the Allophone, Nicole Miller (Piss Piss Piss Moan Moan Moan), Mimi Wallman (ONO), and Blowdryer! Featuring projections from our friend Clint Mosling!

Crown Tap
2821 N.Milwaukee

Soup & Bread: GP Conservatory Benefit @ The Hideout

The Hideout is hosting a special Soup and Bread benefit program tonight to help fund the cleanup and repairs of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which was severely damaged by last Thursday's hail. Stop by The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) tonight (5:30 - 8pm) and stuff your face for a good cause. Details here.

Vintage Heaven United We Buy Sale @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery (1550 N. Milwaukee Ave.) hosts a two-day vintage sale featuring local vendors, including Buried Bones, Jenstyle Chic Vintage, and Venus Meets Vintage. 12pm-6pm.

transmit/transmute : Adrian Moens @ Comfort Station

Bringing together sound, sculpture, video, writing and painting with a heavy dash of New Age poeticism, Adrian Moens' installation at Comfort Station displays an eye for performance, dabbling in many mediums but retaining a sense of interconnectedness. Opens tonight at 7pm (lasts til 10pm), 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Runs through 7/24.

Vintage Heaven United We Buy Sale @ Heaven Gallery

Heaven Gallery (1550 N. Milwaukee Ave.) hosts a two-day vintage sale, featuring local vendors including Dethrose Vintage, Lipstick Dinosaur, and the adorably named Penguiny Vintage. 12-6pm.

Little Friends of Printmaking @ Rotofugi

Milwaukee silkscreen artists The Little Friends of Printmaking celebrate the opening of their new exhibition at Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., with a reception tonight from 7 to 10pm. Free.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Green Eye Lounge

The BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight from 6-11P at Bucktown's Green Eye Lounge (2403 W. Homer). The event showcases established and emerging artists of various disciplines offering original finished works of art, design and illustration at at incredibly affordable prices. Plus, it's a great place to have a few drinks and unwind. June's panel of featured artists includes: Matthew Bremer, Laura Berger, John Airo, BINX, Jessie Winslow, Jason Scanlon and
SOOPAQOOT. In addition to its panel, Atomic Sketch fans are encouraged to work on the sidelines and hang their own pieces on the wall too. 21+

Piven Theatre Workshop's 40th Anniversary @ MCA Loft

Piven Theatre Workshop will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a red carpet evening of dinner, cocktails and an exciting live auction at the MCA Loft (1747 W. Hubbard) tonight from 6pm to 10pm. For more information and to purchase tickets call (847) 866-8049 or visit Piven's website.

Rafaël Rozendaal Artist Talk @ The Nightingale Theatre

Experimental new media artist Rafaël Rozendaal is speaking about his work at The Nightingale Theatre (1048 N Milwaukee Ave.) at 6pm tonight. Admission is free.

Art Openings All Over Town

Visit this post in A/C to see what to see...

WI Rise Up: An Art In These Times Exhibition

Art In These Times, the community gallery at In These Times' office (2040 N. Milwaukee Ave.), presents a new exhibition of posters and photographs from ongoing labor demonstrations in Wisconsin that began on February 14, 2011. The exhibition is a collaboration with Nicolas Lampert and will feature prints and placards he has collected as an active participant in the labor and community rallies in Madison. An opening party will be held at 7pm tonight, in conjunction with the Working-Class Studies Conference at UIC. "The Hard Times Trio," a jazz group which performs classic labor songs, will perform. The artwork will be on display through the summer and fall. The exhibition features screenprints and off-set posters from rallies in Madison and Milwaukee and features prints by Nicolas Lampert, Colin Matthes, Eric Drooker, Jesus Barraza, Josh MacPhee, Jesse Graves and others. The photography of Lauren Cumbia (who co-organizes the gallery space with Daniel Tucker), Brandon Pittser and the Public Collectors archive will also be exhibited.

Grafitti Zone's Spring Fundraiser @ Chicago Urban Arts Society

Four youth artists -- winners of Graffiti Zone's Next Top Artist Contest will be honored tonight at GZ's Spring Fundraiser. The event will take place at Chicago Urban Arts Society: 2229 S. Halsted from 6 to 9pm. Hosted by Chicago hip hop performer Philip Morris, described as "one of the ultimate word smiths of hip-hop (Skope Magazine)," the evening will feature catering by Green Cuisine, open bar, silent auction and performances by Opera-Matic with sound by Mark Messing. Ample free parking is available behind the building, off of Cermak. Tickets are $35 at the door, or online at graffitizone.org. All proceeds to benefit Graffiti Zone, a non profit arts organization serving the 29th ward.

Make Music Chicago Festival

Make Music Chicago is a live, one-day, completely free music festival on the first day of summer, inspired by France's "Fête de la Musique," a national musical holiday marking its 30th anniversary this year. People of all ages, music of all genres, and musicians of all levels are invited to gather throughout the day in Chicago's public spaces to engage in spontaneous music-making. These events go on all day: 7am to 5pm culminating to a grand finale concert from 5:15 to 9pm at St. James Cathedral Commons. This event takes place at public spaces citywide, including Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington), Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington), Alliance Française (810 N. Dearborn) and St. James Cathedral Commons (65 E. Huron). For details, visit makemusicchicago.com.


Minor Art Attack Craft Fair/Benefit @ 2055 W. Erie

This is not your run of the mill craft fair. This is a community gathering together to help a school in need, with local crafters and artists coming together in support of Madero Middle School in Little Village (28th St. and Kedzie), a 90% reduced/free lunch school in need of books. Check out the newest goods from over 20 kick ass local crafters, artists and vintage sellers.

Want to kick it up a notch? Bring books (any subject manner as long as in decent condition) to donate to Open Books Ltd., an organization that helps provide funding for literacy programs right here in Chicago. This event takes place today from 12pm to 6pm at 2055 W. Erie. More details here.

Minor Art Attack Craft Fair/Benefit @ 2055 W. Erie

This is not your run of the mill craft fair. This is a community gathering together to help a school in need, with local crafters and artists coming together in support of Madero Middle School in Little Village (28th St. and Kedzie). They are a 90% reduced/free lunch school, in need of books. Check out the newest goods from over 20 kick ass local crafters, artists and vintage sellers. The first 50 attendees will receive a free Minor Art Attack tote bag. Want to kick it up a notch? Bring books (any subject manner as long as in decent condition) to donate to Open Books Ltd., an organization that helps provide funding for literacy programs right here in Chicago. This event takes place today from 12pm to 8pm and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm at 2055 W. Erie. Details here.

Free Kids Ceramics Class @ Penguin Foot Pottery

School's out soon -- get a jump start on beating the summer doldrums with Penguin Foot Pottery's free class today from 1pm-6pm, where your kid can learn how to make planter pot in a color of their choice. 2514 W. Armitage Ave. Free seeds and soil too!

7th Annual Guerrilla Truck Show

This is a collection of new works by local, independent object and furniture designers. 5:30pm-9:30pm at 1052 W. Fulton Market. For more information, click here.

NeoCon Opening Night

NeoCon is North America's largest design exposition and conference for commercial interiors, providing over 40,000 architecture and design professionals with more than 140 CEU-accredited seminars and association forums, top-notch keynote speakers, taking place today through Wednesday, June 15, 9am-5pm at the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza). Even though it's intended for commercial consumption, there are several independent local furniture designers showing, so furniture junkies shouldn't miss it. For more information, visit NeoCon's website.

Wells Street Art Festival

Art, entertainment and delicious food (I had a memorable steak sandwich a few years ago from the Bistro Margot tent--ah, the memories) are part of the Wells Street Art Festival, which runs today and tomorrow at North and Wells, 10am-10pm. Suggested donation $7 before 5pm, and $10 after 5pm.

WPA Mural Tour @ Lane Tech High School

Tonight Preservation Chicago and portoluz are hosting a tour of the Great Depression-era murals at Lane Tech High School. The tour begins at 5pm at Entrance M of the school, 2501 W. Addison. $10 donation is requested at the door but RSVP to spfingsten@preservationchicago.org.

Art Through Gardening Block Party

Head to the Altgeld-Sawyer Community Garden, at the corner of Altgeld and Sawyer avenues, today from 10am to 2pm for the Art Through Gardening Block Party, where a variety of arts and botanical organizations will come together to promote access to sustainable art & living through using materials from your garden. Chicago Rarities Orchard Project will feature a tasting of rare apples. Sol Air, Urban Worm Girl, Joe Baldwin of Noisivelvet, the Midwest Bonsai Society and Fluer flower shop will give demonstrations. Aaron Straus will assemble a sculpture made of organic materials that will degrade into the garden over the course of the summer focusing on the themes of Community, Privet Vs Public and Alternative Materials, while art collective Ibid will add an interactive layer to the day's activities through the technology of QR codes. Everyone who attends is invited to paint rain barrels. Free.

Paintbrush Ball @ Marwen

Marwen's most important annual fundraising event kicks off tonight at their River North facility (833 N. Orleans St). Designed by Leo Burnett, the evening begins at 6 pm with cocktails, fine dining catered by Blue Plate, a live Sotheby's auction and dancing to Chicago's own DJ Matt ROAN. WBEZ's Steve Edwards will emcee. For tickets and further details about attending the ball, contact Amelia Styer at 312.944.2418 ext. 203 or visit the event's microsite. Proceeds support programs providing under-served Chicago youth rigorous training in the visual arts as well as career development and college preparation, all completely free-of-charge.

Art Futura Opening Night Awards Party

The 9th annual ArtFutura is a juried art exhibition of more than 150 emerging and established artists benefiting the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Art Therapy program. All events including the Opening Night Awards Party tonight take place at the Ryan Family Atrium of NU Lurie Center (303 E. Superior St.). Proceeds from this event allow the hospital to maintain an Art Therapist at the hospital to work with patients. More information about this event can be found here.

Living Flesh Drawing Pad @ The 1901 Gallery Theatre

Artists aspiring, established, and otherwise, your search for real figure models has ended, at least for tonight (it's a monthly event).. The 1901 Gallery Theatre hosts burlesque dancer JuJu Minxxx tonight from 8pm-10pm. $10. BYOB. 1901 W. Belmont Ave., (773) 281-8670.

Family Firsts: 3 Tales of Immigration Film Screenings @ the Cultural Center

Chicago Film Archives presents a rare opportunity to see three newly restored Chicago-centric films that look at personal stories of immigration, acculturation and assimilation in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. This event is free and open to the public at Chicago Cultural Center's Claudia Cassidy Theater (78 E. Washington St.), and happens at 6:30pm. Details here.

Art Exhibition Catalog Blowout Sale @ Cultural Center

Pick up a catalog from one of the Cultural Center's more than 600 art exhibitions over the past 30 years for just $1 to $5. In the Garland Room at the Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., from 10am to 4pm. Sales are cash only. More info here.

Arts of Life @ minibar

Arts of Life, a nonprofit dedicated to helping developmentally disabled and non-disabled artists develop their craft, holds a cocktail reception for its first resident artist, Tim Stone, tonight at minibar Ultra Lounge, 3339 N. Halsted St., from 8pm to 10pm. The event will also showcase other artists. $10 suggested donation. 21+

Local Craft Beer Parties @ Maria's & Co-Prosperity Sphere

Hey beer lovers, tonight three of the country's most rad craft breweries are hosting a double event in Bridgeport: One at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar (960 W. 31st St.) and a simultaneous event takes place two blocks away at the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.). These events are being held to celebrate Chicago Craft Beer Week. Half Acre, Three Floyd's and Dogfish Head will be stocked at Maria's, with some rare beers on draft. 7pm til 2am. No cover.

The event at Co-Prosperity Sphere takes place from 8pm to 11pm. Admission is $10, which entitles you to complimentary craft beers. There are no online or presale admission tickets. Meet the staff of your favorite breweries: Three Floyd's Gregg Alzinga will be on the decks. Lord of the Yum Yum will perform at both venues. Proceeds will go to the non-profit arts organization Public Media Institute.

Meet Your Digital Partners @ The Nightengale

The IFP (Independent Film Project) is pleased to launch a new salon/discussion series for media makers in the Chicagoland and Midwestern region: MEET YOUR DIGITAL PARTNERS. The goal is to bring together people from a broad array of fields related to media making, to exchange ideas and talk about developing visual and aural stories in a variety of cross-platform arenas. With the convergence of technology, there is a lot of talk of making work that can be relevant across a multitude of platforms. Yet media makers may not know where to meet potential collaborators outside their usual circle. Stay relevant and make new connections by attending this open forum, whether you're a game developer, filmmaker, social media producer, advertiser, audio artist, or cross-platform media maker. This event takes place tonight at 7pm at The Nightingale (1084 North Milwaukee Ave.) Suggested donation $10 non-members, $5 members.

ECLIPSE Master Class: Man, Woman, and the Beast Within @ Columbia College

Columbia College Chicago and Fulcrum Point New Music Project, in association with Fujitsu Ten Ltd., will present ECLIPSE Master Class: Man, Woman, and the Beast Within, a free, one-time-only film music screening event with live orchestra, at the sound stage of the Columbia College Media Production Center (1600 S. State St.) today at 7:30pm. This special ECLIPSE Master Class event is free and open to the public but advance registration and ticket reservations are required. For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit www.ccc-emc.org or call 312-726-3846.

Dan Grzeca & Kathleen Judge Open Studio

Printmakers Dan Grzeca (who created our 6th anniversary party poster and Kathleen Judge hold an open house in their studio at 4045 N. Rockwell 3rd Flr., from 11am to 4pm today. They're joined by artist/author Rebecca Dudley, who will be showing off her new storybook, Hank Finds an Egg. The first 10 visitors to the open studio will receive a free print by Grzeca and Judge. More info here. Free.

Chicago Street Art Show

The Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 S. Halsted St., hosts an exhibition featuring some of the leading artists in Chicago's street art scene, including Nick Adam, Oscar Arriola, Artillery, Bonus Saves, Juan Angel Chavez, CLS, CRO, Cyro, Chris Diers, Don't Fret, Emen, 80 Legs, Tom Fennell IV, Brooks Golden, Goons, The Grocer, Cody Hudson, "It's Yours, Take It," Klepto Salem, Melt, Poor Kid, Safety First, Saro, Senor Codo, Sighn, Chris Silva, Solve, Tiptoe, The Viking, You Are Beautiful and more. The opening reception is tonight from 6pm to 11pm; the show closes June 4. Free.

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds an open house tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Visit the studios and see recent work by Doug Birkenheuer, Anthony Bowers, Jeff Bryner, Nancy Charak, Kelsi Crivaro, Tor Dettwiler, Doug Frohman, Lauren Harlowe, Beth Kamhi, Jeremiah Ketner, Reed Kirst, Alley Maranto, Teresa Matchett, Jason Messinger, Alisa Miller, Greg Milne, Ahavani Mullen, Matt Nichols, James Parenti, Emily Rapport, Judy Schumacher, Susanne Siegel, Scott Simons, Eric Steele, Kevin Swallow, Eric Weinstein and Joey Wozniak. Musical guest North Branch perform. Free.

Drink, Draw, and Destroy @ Hyde Park Art Center

Join the artist Conrad Freiburg for fun and sculptural mayhem with the SCUE machine.
Friday, May 13, 7-11 pm at the Hyde Park Art Center

VISITORS Book Launch @ ISR Pop-Up Gallery

One year after taking a photograph of every visitor gracing his Pilsen studio, Chicago-based music and fashion photographer Kyle La Mere is launching his first self-published book of work tonight at his IshootRockstars pop-up gallery (1823 S. Halsted). Named one of Chicago's Hottest 30 Under 30, La Mere's limited-edition VISITORS books feature more than 300 portraits of all types (from musicians, to plumbers, to designers to dogs) and is a true testament to the uniqueness of the Chicago community, as well as the style of La Mere's work. If you want your own copy, they're $30 online. The event runs from 6pm to 10pm.

"The Cannon" Performative Reading Series @ Bonny's

"The Cannon," a monthly event starting tonight, (and part of Logan Square's "Strongworks" performance programming) will feature six Chicago actors
performing short stories chosen by Will Litton, fiction editor of the literary magazine
Wag's Revue, and Sam Nyhart, company member of Strong Works. Readings will be "performative, polished and punchy," according to Amanda Rozmiarek, production manager of Strong Works. Tonight's event will be held at Bonny's (2417 N. Milwaukee Ave.) from 9 to 10. Afterward, the Strong Works jazz band will play, followed by DJs, dancing and drinks. A $5 donation will be gently suggested at the door to keep their otherwise entirely unfunded season going.

Harmony in Three Parts @ Hyde Park Art Center

Today from 2pm-3:30pm Harmony in Three Parts (a panel discussion) happens in conjunction with Conrad Freiburg's It Is What It Isn't, featuring physicist Heinrich Jaeger, musicologist Lawrence Zbikowski, and Conrad Freiburg. This multi-disciplinary discussion and demonstration will allow three scholars to examine how different types of knowledge inform our thinking and how each of these ways of thinking converge and diverge on the subject of harmony, movement, and language. For more information or to register please contact Sarah Pesin at culturalpartnerships@uchicago.edu or (773) 702-2768. Takes place at Hyde Park Art Center.

Artropolis: Art Chicago, NEXT & International Antiques Fair

Artropolis, a massive arts and culture event encompassing Art Chicago, NEXT and the Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, runs April 29 through May 2 at the Merchandise Mart, Kinzie and Wells streets. The shows are open from 11am to 7pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday, and 11am to 4pm Monday (the antiques fair closes at 3 on Monday). Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 for a multiday pass, $35 with an art tour), $15 for seniors and students.

Artropolis: Art Chicago, NEXT & International Antiques Fair

Artropolis, a massive arts and culture event encompassing Art Chicago, NEXT and the Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, runs April 29 through May 2 at the Merchandise Mart, Kinzie and Wells streets. The shows are open from 11am to 7pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday, and 11am to 4pm Monday (the antiques fair closes at 3 on Monday). Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 for a multiday pass, $35 with an art tour), $15 for seniors and students.

Artropolis: Art Chicago, NEXT & International Antiques Fair

Artropolis, a massive arts and culture event encompassing Art Chicago, NEXT and the Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, runs April 29 through May 2 at the Merchandise Mart, Kinzie and Wells streets. The shows are open from 11am to 7pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday, and 11am to 4pm Monday (the antiques fair closes at 3 on Monday). Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 for a multiday pass, $35 with an art tour), $15 for seniors and students.

My Heart is an Idiot Film Screening @ Intuit

My Heart Is An Idiot is a documentary about love that spans more than two years and a hundred cities. The film captures the manic road-tripping lifestyle of Davy Rothbart ("This American Life") as he tours North America in a van promoting his magazine FOUND, a virally popular and iconic printed collection of discarded notes and photographs. Show starts at 7pm. Running time: 95 minutes, tickets: $10. Director David Meiklejohn and subject of the film Davy Rothbart will be in attendance for a Q&A after the film.Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Global Activism Expo @ UIC Forum

Derived from the "Global Activism Series" hosted by "Worldview"'s Jerome McDonnell, the Global Activism Expo has become WBEZ's largest event of the year, happening again today (complete with music & food) and gathering hundreds of Chicago-area global activists, each providing ways you can immediately get involved and join their efforts. Doors open at noon and stay open until 6pm; it's FREE -- so bring your classes, your children, your neighbors, your friends and family. The address is 725 W. Roosevelt. Details here.

Artropolis: Art Chicago, NEXT & International Antiques Fair

Artropolis, a massive arts and culture event encompassing Art Chicago, NEXT and the Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, runs April 29 through May 2 at the Merchandise Mart, Kinzie and Wells streets. The shows are open from 11am to 7pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday, and 11am to 4pm Monday (the antiques fair closes at 3 on Monday). Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 for a multiday pass, $35 with an art tour), $15 for seniors and students.

"Important American Paintings" @ JW Marriott

"Important American Paintings, Drawings and Sculpture," an exhibition from Christie's New York featuring works by John Singer Sargent, Frank Weston Benson, Maxfield Parrish, Albert Bierstadt, Thomas Moran and more will be on display at the JW Marriott Chicago, 151 W. Adams St., from 10am to 5pm yesterday and today, April 26 & 27. Free.

How We Got On by Idris Goodwin @ New Leaf Theatre

This is part of the Treehouse Readings Series at New Leaf Theatre. The revamped series, which kicked off last fall, is dedicated to providing an incubator for new play development, specifically for plays that have received an initial reading and are in the more advanced stages of polishing before their premieres. Tonight at 7pm they will be reading How We Got On by Idris Goodwin, a classic American coming-of-age tale with a unique hip-hop treatment: domestic suburban life remixed. The Selector, our DJ/Narrator, samples and loops us through the lives of three Midwestern teen rappers who have yet to discover the power of harmony over discord. This reading will take place at New Leaf Theatre's home at the Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West. Free, For more information, visit newleaftheatre.org.

"Important American Paintings" @ JW Marriott

"Important American Paintings, Drawings and Sculpture," an exhibition from Christie's New York featuring works by John Singer Sargent, Frank Weston Benson, Maxfield Parrish, Albert Bierstadt, Thomas Moran and more will be on display at the JW Marriott Chicago, 151 W. Adams St., from 10am to 5pm today and tomorrow, April 26 & 27. Free.

The MDW Fair @ the Geolofts

Three of Chicago's most celebrated art spaces - threewalls, Roots and Culture, and Public Media Institute - present the MDW Fair, a celebration and gathering of Chicagoland area independent art initiatives, spaces, galleries, publishers, and artist groups. Featuring exhibited works, talks, and performances, the fair aims to "demonstrate the diversity, strength, and vision of the people/places making it happen in the art ecology of our region." The MDW Fair takes place at the Geolofts (3636 South Iron Street) on April 23 from 1pm to 10pm and April 24 from 1pm to 6pm. Admission to the fair is $5.

The MDW Fair @ the Geolofts

Three of Chicago's most celebrated art spaces - threewalls, Roots and Culture, and Public Media Institute - present the MDW Fair, a celebration and gathering of Chicagoland area independent art initiatives, spaces, galleries, publishers, and artist groups. Featuring exhibited works, talks, and performances, the fair aims to "demonstrate the diversity, strength, and vision of the people/places making it happen in the art ecology of our region." The MDW Fair takes place at the Geolofts (3636 South Iron Street) on April 23 from 1pm to 10pm and April 24 from 1pm to 6pm. Admission to the fair is $5.

Version Festival: New New Chicagoans Show

Version 11: Community kicks off with a group exhibition titled "The New New Chicagoans" tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7pm to 11pm. Work by Mike Andrews, Dayton Castleman, Ryan Travis Christian, Paul Cowan, Ryan Duggan, Stephen Eichhorn, Edie Fake, Aron Gent, Cody Hudson, Matthew Hoffman, Thad Kellstadt, Jason Lazarus, Rachael Marszewski, Paul Nudd, Rachel Niffenegger, Josue Pellot, Josh Reames, Anna Shteynshleyger, Sonnenzimmer, Greg Stimac and Christine Tarkowski will be shown. Free until 9pm, $5 after.

Jay Ryan Opening @ Rotofugi

Jay Ryan, best known for his screenprints, opens a show of his paintings at Rotofugi, 2780 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 7 to 10pm. DJ Carrie Weston will spin, and refreshments will be served. Free.

WONKA BALL 2011: A Royal Wedding @ SAIC Ballroom

Polish your tiaras! Before Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot across the pond, About Face Theatre is throwing its own royal wedding at WONKA BALL 2011. AFT's premier fundraising event will be held tonight at the School of the Art Institute Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave., at 6:30pm with a VIP reception at 5:30pm. Tickets are currently available at www.aboutfacetheatre.com or 773-784-8565. The evening will include a silent auction, open bar, mouth-watering edibles from some of Chicago's best restaurants including Atwood Café, Garrett Popcorn, J&L Catering, Polo Café, Terry's Toffees and more. WONKA BALL wouldn't be complete without plenty of music, dancing, entertainment and of course lots of surprises--including a "Wonka-style" visit from Queen Elizabeth herself! Tickets are a steep $250/VIP reception or $150/general admission. Details here.

Weightless Film Screening @ Intuit

Women rule the water in Weightless, a short documentary film by Faith Pennick about a scuba diving camp for plus-size women. Weightless depicts larger women as they are rarely seen: 1) as physically active, and 2) not consumed by the need or expectation to be thin. Show starts at 5:30pm. Running time: 39 minutes, tickets: $15. Includes a Q&A with the filmmakers. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Live Taping of "Who Knows Her Better?" @ Mary's Attic

Tellofilms.com announces "Who Knows Her Better?" a new game show hosted by Elizabeth Keener from The L Word that asks the question: who knows a woman better -- her husband or her gay best friend? The premiere episode will be taped in front of a live audience tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark St.). Tickets include two shows of "Who Knows Her Better?" and can be purchased in advance for $10 at BrownPaperTickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the door for $15. The minimum age for attendees is 21 years old.

SAIC Spring Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute's Spring Art Sale takes place Friday from 11am to 7pm, and today from 10am to 5pm in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. More than 120 SAIC students will be selling original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more, at prices ranging from $1 to $1,000+. Free.

"Art Talk" with Environmental Artist Cydney Lewis @ Harold Washington Library

To celebrate Earth Day, the Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., hosts Chicago artist Cydney Lewis and her exhibit, T.A.W.G.A. (Throw Away Won't Go Away), which features various works created from recycled plastic bags. This event, held today at 2pm on the 8th floor in the library's Art Reference Room, is free and open to the public. For more information, call (312) 747-4300.

Ag47 Showcase @ Kimball Arts Center

Step right up to the circus-themed artistic showcase for Logan Square arts mentorshop group Ag47 (previously written about in A/C). Live performances will take place from 7-10 pm, and original art made by girls and their mentors will be for sale. The showcase goes down at the Kimball Arts Center (1757 N. Kimball Ave), with a suggested donation of $10. For more information and sneak peeks at the artwork, check out the Ag47 blog.

SAIC Spring Art Sale

The School of the Art Institute's Spring Art Sale takes place today from 11am to 7pm, and tomorrow from 10am to 5pm in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave. More than 120 SAIC students will be selling original paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, jewelry, fashion and more, at prices ranging from $1 to $1,000+. Free.

Live Sketch Event w/ Shawnimals @ Urban Outfitters

11 Kidrobot artists will be at Urban Outfitters stores nationwide today from 6pm to 8pm to sign and sketch Munnyworld figures in person, featuring Shawnimals at the State Street store (20 S. State) here in Chicago. Admission is free and open to the public. Kids are encouraged to attend.

Double Feature Lecture Series @ Mess Hall

This lecture series features presentations by Nick Bastis and Andrew Norman Wilson. Bastis will talk about his "Forms of Spectacle and Solutions to Vacancy" project, which sought to challenge construction and distribution hierarchies of destination-object architecture. By building and celebrating the "opening" of a replicated 1:1 scale Frank Gehry structure with students in an underserved neighborhood of Chicago's west side, the installation and performance examined certain architectures as symbols of capital and power, testing the perceived strength of Gehry's aesthetic and its rumored ability to seemingly transform a struggling neighborhood's social and economic infrastructure. The project became a platform to not only test current and historical trends in architecture and planning, but to playfully redistribute such urban renewal methodologies and examine their power structures. Wilson will talk about his "Virtual Assistance" project, which began with research geared towards unpacking the relational system of Get Friday, a virtual personal assistant service based in Bangalore, India, that provides remote executive support to a largely American client base through "virtual" personal assistants. I am a part of that client base, paying monthly fees for a primary assistant who works out of the Get Friday office in India. My "assistant" is a 25-year-old male Bangalore resident named Akhil. In paying for our relationship I am not trying to lighten my work load, but rather to attempt collaborative projects and even reversals of the normative outsourcing flow under a corporate contract arranged for one-way command. These lectures take place tonight from 7 to 9 at Mess Hall: 6932 North Glenwood Ave.

Townhall Hearing to Save Rumble Arts @ The Humboldt Park Fieldhouse

Humboldt Park art and community center Rumble Arts is (once again) in danger of closing its doors because the family-owned pawnshop that provides its primary source of funding is in danger of being replaced by a Cash America. Show your support for Rumble by attending the townhall hearing tonight at 6pm at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse (1400 N. Sacramento). While you're at it, why not sign this petition?

Fun For All @ Hyde Park Art Center

Let the kids make fun and art at this free event. Families can make their own bugs to celebrate spring, decorate signs for clubhouses, and cascarones to fill with treats. Special guests like Artist-in-Residence Conrad Freiburg and dance collection C.O.R.E. Project will provide entertainment and inspiration. More information about the event can be found on the Hyde Park Art Center's web site. The fun goes from 12pm to 4pm. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. (773) 324-5520.

CHIRP Record Fair & Other Delights @ Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union

This year's 2-day crate-fest at the Plumber's Union once again celebrates independent radio, and the lovers of all music recorded on vinyl. Come out and crate dive to find some amazing deals to make all your friends jealous. Food, entertainment, and beer make the weekend oh so much fun. Vendor list, details. The fair takes place at the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union, 1340 W. Washington Blvd. Chicago, IL. Open Saturday, 4/9 10am-5pm, Sunday, 4/10 10am-5pm. Admission is $7/$5 with any ad **Special Pre-Admission from 8am-10am on Saturday $25.

A Variety of Fits @ Jolhalla Projects

A Variety of Fits opens tonight at Jolhalla Projects (1561 N. Milwaukee Ave.), featuring the image-heavy, convention-configuring, almost watercolor-like drawings of Adam Grossi. 6pm-9pm. Free.

ACRE Scholars Party @ Rodan

Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee Ave., is the setting for an evening of art and music to help fund a scholarship for ACRE's summer residency program. Money raised at this event will go directly to this scholarship fund. The party will feature photographs, paintings, and video by 2010 residents, including Tony Balko, Thorne Brandt, Benjamin Funke, Lydia McCarthey, Aliza Morell, Jennifer Ray and Michael Sirianni, as well as DJ sets by a number of ACRE affiliated musicians and artists. Party with ACRE and help raise funds to send needy emerging artists to art camp! 9pm to 2am. 21+

Jaguar Headband Twins @ Comfort Station

Logan Square artist Jordan Martins presents his contemporary yet Baroque collages at Comfort Station (2579 N. Milwaukee Ave) tonight: drawing from sources like old cookbooks, comics, encyclopedias and other castoff texts, he brings this disparate elements together to form two- and three-dimensional compositions. 7-10pm.

"Gala Undone" Benefit Art Party & Auction @ Venue One

"Gala Undone" is Urban Gateway's 50th anniversary party, hosted by New Arts Forum. The party will feature an open bar, snacks, and silent art auction. There will also be a performance by UG group, BAM!, live mural art by UG artist James "Casper" Jankowiak and tunes by DJ Mister Wolf (of Only Children). 21+. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. The party is from 9:30pm to midnight tonight at Venue One: 1044 W. Randolph. More information and tickets can be found at urbangateways.org.

"Unschooling Arts Education" SALON @ threewalls

If you've been craving some serious art talk but don't have the loot to go to art school, stop by threewalls tonight (or across the hallway at Western Exhibitions, rather) for their "Unschooling Arts Education" SALON-- part of their monthly, (free!) super-educational and interactive discussion series. This event is from 7 to 9pm tonight at Western Exhibitions: 119 N Peoria St., unit 2A. Admissions is free and open to the public. More info here. Super-specific all-encompassing details with supplementary readings and profiles of the guest speakers here.

Chicago Zine Fest @ Columbia College

A celebration of expression and sharing information through zines, self-publishing and the principles and practice of DIY, the Chicago Zine Fest is happening today at the Conaway Center (1st and 8th floor) of Columbia College (1104 S. Wabash Ave), between 10am and 5pm. There's a zine exhibition with a variety of authors and artists, a DIY film festival, workshops, lectures, and more! Free!

Jon Satrom: Prepared Desktop @ Graham Foundation - WAITLISTED

Brought to you by The Graham Foundation and Lampo, Jon Satrom presents Prepared Desktop as part of the Lampo Performance Series. Turning normal computer applications, programs, and desktop features into a strange(ly awesome) audio/video experience. 8pm, 4 West Burton Place (Madlener House). Get on the waitlist and find out more information here.

Gaia @ Maxwell Colette Gallery

An exhibition of work by international street artist Gaia opens tonight at Maxwell Colette Gallery, 833 W. Chicago Ave., with a reception from 6pm to 9pm. Gaia: Resplendent Semblance is on display through May 7.

Easy Six Kickoff Party @ Chief O'Neill's Pub

Factory Theater Hosts a Kick-Off Party for Their Newest and Swingiest Rat Pack-Era Production of Easy Six tonight from 6 to 9:30 at Chief O'Neill's Pub (3471 N. Elston Ave.). Featuring live entertainment from cast member, Esteban Cruz (2009 Jeff Award winner for best actor in Jesus Hopped the A Train at Raven and recently seen in the Lyric Opera's production of Benjamin Britten's Midsummer Night's Dream), a first look at the Easy Six Promo Video Premier, mingling with Factory Theater ensemble and Easy Six cast members, special priced tickets to Easy Six opening night including post-show party and raffles and prizes. This event is free to attend.

Conrad Freiburg @ Hyde Park Art Center

Conrad focuses on absence and loss in his show It Is What It Isn't opening on March 20th at the Hyde Park Art Center.

hArts for Art: 2nd Annual Benefit Auction + Raffle @ LVL3

This is an art auction, with proceeds benefiting arts education at www.associationhouse.org. Contributing artists include Alysia Kaplan, Amy Yao, Andrew Holmquist, Austin Eddy, David Geeting, David Leggett, Easton Miller, Erin Zona, Fraser Taylor, Gary Petersen, Heidi Norton, Jacob Goudreault, James Cooper, Jason Benson, Jason Lazarus, Jenny Kendler, John Campbell, Jon Rafman, Kate Ruggeri, Kate Steciw, Leslie Supnet, Liz Nielsen McKeever Donovan, Michael Hunter, Paul Kenneth, Racer Levan, Richard Galling, Robin Cameron, Ryan Fenchel, Stephen Eichhorn, Timothy Bergstrom, Vanesa Zendejas, Veronica Rafael, WarpWeftWoof and Wyatt Grant. Advanced bids start Saturday, March 12 at www.lvl3auction.info. All bidding ends at 10pm on March 19 (tonighht). Raffle immediately after auction. All artwork starts at $20. Bids can be made in $5 increments. Artwork must be picked up by Sunday, March 20. Cash and check accepted.Raffle tickets: 1 for $3 or 2 for $5. Must be present to win raffle. This event is from 6 to 10pm tonight at LVL3 Gallery: 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Mar(t)ch Madness Art Tournament @ Fulton St. Collective

Mar(t)ch Madness is an art show and event conceived in the spirit of a certain famous collegiate basketball tournament, organized by Lion vs. Gorilla. The show will begin with artwork from 16 established and emerging artists. Over the course of four bracketed rounds, viewers will vote to narrow down the playing field to their two favorite artists, and those artists will then compete for the championship trophy. Artists can (and will!) do whatever they can to court votes from audience members, to increase their odds of victory. There will be a half-time show, featuring Chicago's own cheerleading team, The Chicago Spirit Brigade. After the crowning of the Mar(t)ch Madness Tournament champion, there will be a tailgate reception, with refreshments and live music by Ludus Lovestyle. This is going to be a high-energy, fun event, and it is an opportunity for members of Chicago's arts community to come together and celebrate some of the amazing work being produced in this city. This event begins tonight at 8pm tonight at the Fulton Street Collective: 2000 W. Fulton. $5 suggested donation. Part of the proceeds will go to The Howard Brown Health Center.

Creative Chicago Expo @ Chicago Cultural Center

The Creative Chicago Expo is a free, day-long event that connects Chicago's creative community -- including individual artists, businesses, and organizations -- with services, spaces, information, and networks. More than 130 vendors will participate in this year's Expo, including arts services, community organizations, arts educators, space and housing providers, health care and financial consultants, and more. Who should attend? Dancers, writers, musicians, actors, performers, theater professionals, visual artists, fashion designers and marketers, graphic designers, new media and filmmakers...and all other Chicago creatives. This event is today from 10am to 5pm at the Cultural Center:
78 E. Washington. Admission is free. More info here.


Bike Winter Art Show @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Celebrate cycling with the opening of this gallery show featuring bike-themed work by more than 50 artists. The Chicago Urban Art Society at 2229 S. Halsted will have ample bike racks available, so you're encouraged to cycle to the event, which runs from 6 to 11 pm. Check out the Facebook event page for further info.

Awe Dub Sessions @ Rodan

AWE DUB SESSIONS is a night of rare and classic sci-fi film & reggae. All vinyl, all night selected by RUFFY, TUFFY, and RAD BRIAN. Special guests include a rotating cast of musicians, selectors, and chanters-- both local and international. Tonight's session: "Give Thanks & Praises Ina Topo Duh Holy Mountain!" features a crucially projected double feature from the great Alejandro Jodorowsky! El Topo (1970) & The Holy Mountain (1973) meet the sweetest in obscure roots, rockers, dub & dancehall vinyl. Awe Dub Sessions takes place every second Thursday of every month from 10pm to 2am. 21+. No Cover. Rodan is located at 1530 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Closing night of Weird Girl: One Human Show @ The Lincoln Lodge

Most one-woman shows cover unrequited love over a cup of Earl Gray and draped in a sheer bathrobe, but Mo Welch isn't your normal gal. In fact, she's kind of a Weird Girl, conveniently the title of her new "one-human show." Instead of impersonating ex-lovers or neglectful children, she busts out Larry Bird and MCs. Check out the closing night at 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln with comedian Aaron Weaver and international circus performer Amanda Crockett. Tickets are $10 and available here.

Illumination @ 914

Illumination kicks off 914's First Friday gallery event (914 N. California Ave) and marks the West Town/Humboldt Park loft collaborative's grand opening. Challenging the conventional notion of light in art and space, Illumination's 14 featured artists explore light as a medium and the source of their work. A live performance by Chicago experimental sound duo l'éternèbre divides a downtempo-turned-dance DJ set by Tony Junior. Mediterranean fair from Todd's Workshop Catering will be passed. 7p to midnight. A $10 donation is suggested. Details and RSVP via Facebook.

Sarah Leitten Art Show @ Kitchen Sink

Edgewater cafe Kitchen Sink hosts artwork by Ukrainian Village artist Sarah Leitten. Stop by from 6:30 to 9pm for gluten-free and vegan baked good, wine and live music. Kitchen Sink is located at 1107 W. Berwyn Ave. 773-944-0592.

Opening night of Weird Girl: One-Human Show @ The Lincoln Lodge

Most one-woman shows cover unrequited love over a cup of Earl Gray and draped in a sheer bathrobe, but Mo Welch isn't your normal gal. In fact, she's kind of a Weird Girl, conveniently the title of her new "one-human show." Instead of impersonating ex-lovers or neglectful children, she busts out Larry Bird and MCs. Check out the premier at 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln with comedian Cameron Esposito and international circus performer Amanda Crockett. Tickets are $10 and available here.

Word to the Mother in Logan Square

In celebration of Logan Square, I AM Logan Square is kicking off its grand opening tonight with "Word to the Mother", an exhibition of street-inspired art featuring new works by homegrown artists Lauren Feece, Chris Tavares Silva, Robert Stevenson and Lindsey Meyers. In addition to art, the opening festivities include music by DJ Kusi, delicious hors d'oeuvres from Cafe con Leche, wine and samplings of local brewer, Wil Huffman's, newest brew and delicious treats from local baker Paper Moon. For more details about IALS's first opening, visit their blog or Facebook event page. 6 to 9pm.

Slowly @ The COOP

The opening reception for Slowly happens tonight at The COOP, 845 W. Fulton Market, #201. Featuring paintings by Chicago artist and designer, Andy Luce, Slowly is Luce's first solo show. 7pm to 10pm.

Tattoo You! Benefit @ Insight Studios

The fine tattoo artists of Insight Studios (1062 North Milwaukee) will donate tonight and tomorrow night's proceeds for all their inkings to Red Door Animal Shelter; benefit runs noon-10pm both days. Now's the time to get the "Momma" tattoo you've been pondering!

Typeforce 2 Opening @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

See the work of more than two dozen local typographers at the opening party for Typeforce, an annual showcase running tonight through March 7 at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. The party starts at 6pm. Free.

Ox-Bow Benefit Dance Party @ Architectural Artifacts

Join the artists and creative people who work/play at Ox-Bow artist "colony" for a night of art, auctions, eating, drinking, dancing and FUN, benefiting Ox-Bow. Tickets are $25 after 9pm. Come hear DJ Eric May spin the jams (reggae, funk, soul, dub). Dance with your pals. Take in the art. Have a few drinks. Take a gamble on the works on paper raffle. Get your glamor shots taken by Glitter Guts. If you want to come earlier, tickets are $100 and include food and drinks and a live and silent auction. This party is tonight from 6:30 to 11pm at Architectural Artifacts: 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave.

TYPEFORCE 2 @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The opening reception for Typeforce 2 is tonight at Bridgeport's Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St) from 6 to 11P. The second annual showcase of emerging "typographic all-stars" includes work from Chicago talents including: 3st, Andy Luce, Bud Rodecker, Emily Van Hoff, Frances MacLeod, Gary Rozanc, Jarred Kolar, Jessica Lynn White, Justin Gilman, Kyle Fletcher, Margo Yoon, Mark Addison Smith, Meng Yang, Nancy McCabe, Nicole Briant, Quite Strong, Scott Reinhard, Sonnenzimmer, Studio 1a.m. and Tami Churns. The show runs through March 7th.

Dil Pickle Club @ Hideout

The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, hosts a meeting of The Dil Pickle Club, the revival of Chicago's legendary arts society, tonight from 7pm til 2am. The evening will be presented in two acts on the theme of "LOVE/DEATH," followed by a DJ dance party. The first act will feature singer Melanie "George" Decelles, Faces of Death of Precious Moments Figurines by artist Jenny Benevento, and paintings by Ned Broderick; the second act will feature works by Sayward Schoonmake, Richard Lindberg and Jerry Boyle. A variety of other musical interludes and sideshows will be presented throughout the evening. Admission is $5-10, and entry will be through the alley for the evening -- look for the orange door with the green light. 21+

"The Paul Show" @ The Charnel House

Fifteen artists from the recently established training center Klein Artists Works will stage an exhibition of their works at the Charnel House, a new multi-arts center in Logan Square. Featured artists include Jess Beyler, Robert Fields, Doug Frohman, Teresa Getty, Tatjana Jovancevic, Andrew Rigsby, René Romero Schuler, Jill Pope West, and Peggy Wolff. The opening reception for The Paul Show takes place today from 6 pm to 9 pm, 3421 West Fullerton.

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds a valentine-themed open house today from noon to 4pm. Shop for jewelry, paintings, sculpture and other fine arts and crafts for your loved one. Free.

We're All in This Together: New Art by Laura Berger @ Paper Boy

Come see illustrator and painter Laura Berger's new works at Paper Boy, tonight from 5pm-8pm. Pick up some unique, delightful cards and gifts while you're there, too: Valentine's is just around the corner. 1351 West Belmont. Free!

Love Local @ Inkling

Fall in love with Chicago and the handmade items its artists produce tonight at Inkling. Featuring Busy Beaver Button designers Chris Corbalis and Britton Walters, Laura Berger, Sarah Best, Alvin Lau, Jeremiah Reilly, Michelle Simon and more, the opening reception features a variety of arts in crafts in a range of mediums. 2917 1/2 N. Broadway St., 6pm-10pm. Free cookies and wine!

Indie Wed @ Ravenswood Event Center

If you're into planning yourself or others a DIY wedding, then don't miss out on the first midwest Indie Wed event at the Ravenswood Event Center today. There will be 90+ vendors from the Midwest and beyond over two floors, music and dance performances, food tastings, bride and groom lounges with free massages, mini manis, more. Swag bags for the first 75 pre-sale ticket-purchasers (1 per order), and for the first 50 couples in line. The event will take place from 10am-4pm at 4043 N. Ravenswood Ave. Tickets are $12 for a single admission and $18 for two tickets, and there will be a runway show as well (tickets $5).

Printapalooza @ The Block Museum

Cutting-edge independent print-makers and graphic artists from the Chicago area and around the country will show off their skills and their work at Printpalooza, a print fair and sale at Northwestern University's Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art today. Admission is free and open to the public. Printpalooza takes place from noon to 4pm today at the Block Museum, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston campus. Free parking is available. For more information, including driving directions as well as directions from the CTA Purple Line and the Metro/Union Pacific North Line, visit www.blockmuseum.northwestern.edu or call (847) 491-4000.

Find a Place and Hold It for a While Opens @ Peanut Gallery

Find a Place and Hold It for a While is a cyclical performance of labor, documenting moments of various weaving processes, addressing how loss can create opportunities for transformation through the construction and deconstruction of a hand-woven cloth. The artist, Lauren La Rose, is a BFA candidate at SAIC. She has installed a giant loom in the gallery and will be working on the cloth during the opening tonight and for several weeks thereafter. A video of the performance as it has been done before will be projected on the wall in the gallery. The opening reception is from 7 to 10 tonight at Peanut Gallery: 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Rm. 345. All ages and breeds are welcome.

Urban Gateways Interactive Launch Party @ Chicago Urban Art Society

In commemoration of the last 50 years of bringing arts education to Chicago youth, Urban Gateways: Center for Arts Education invites you to celebrate the momentous anniversary with them at an interactive launch party tonight at the Chicago Urban Art Society's Gallery at 2229 S. Halsted St. and will feature a visual art and graffiti gallery exhibition by some of Chicago's most notable contemporary artists, the debut of their new interactive website, "I Am Urban Gateways", live student performances and an Urban Gateways art exhibition. Free and open to anyone 12 and up, but RSVP is required.

Peter Saul and Brian Calvin Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Corbett vs. Dempsey presents "Stupid Arguments," the first gallery exhibition of work by Peter Saul in Chicago in 25 years. Additionally, work by Brian Calvin will be displayed in the gallery's east wing. The reception will run from 5:00-9:00pm. The exhibition will be on view through March 12th, 2011.

MAZE: Work By Hyeon Kim Opens @ Roxaboxen Exhibitions

Kim's most recent work, Maze, an installation and video work, is a reflection of the labor-intensive practices of her parents' new working situation after immigrating to America. Maze revolves around the social and cultural aspects of life in America through the lens of a Korean immigrant family living in the US. For the past few months, Hyeon accumulated large amounts of shirts left behind at dry-cleaners around the Chicago area. In her video, she travels throughout Maze putting dry-cleaning bags on every shirt to explore how labor and physical objects can hold the stresses of everyday life, as well as the public perception of this type of work. The opening reception for this show is tonight at Roxaboxen Exhibitions (2130 W 21st St.) from 7pm to 10pm. For more information, visit Roxaboxen's website.

Multiplex & Wonderella @ Chicago Comics

Gordon McAlpin, creator of Multiplex (and ex-GBer), and Justin Pierce, creator of The Non-Adventures of Wonderella, will be at Chicago Comics, 3244 N. Clark St., today from 3pm to 8pm signing their latest books. More info here.

B Sides Opens @ Coalition Gallery

Curated by Pepper Coate and Susan Aurinko, B-Sides is an exhibition featuring works by each of the Coalition Gallery artists (Adrienne Pike, Bernell Loeb, Brad Nugent, Bryan Boomershine, Christie Helm, Connie Wolfe, Dimitri Pavlotsky, Jori Foreman, Kevin Wisor, Nathalie Gribinski, Robin Dluzen, Sarah Rehmer, Shawn Stucky and Zach Mory), created in a medium separate from their primary genres. As painters exhibit sculptures and glassworks, printmakers present photographs, and figurative artists deviate from the human form, this exhibition is an opportunity for the artists to showcase successful works in a medium for which they are not well known to employ. The opening is tonight from 6:30 to 9 at Coalition Gallery (2010 W Pierce Ave, Suite 102).

Scrappers Screening and Q&A with Co-Directors @ Doc Films

Doc Films is hosting a screening of Scrappers followed by a question and answer session with the co-directors at 7pm tonight. The locally made film was included on Roger Ebert's list of the best documentaries of 2010. Additional information about the film is available in this October interview with GB and a recent feature in The Core. The event is $5 and located in the Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th St. Co-sponsored by Fire Escape Films and the Center for Latin American Studies.

RE:COM Comedy Show & Launch Party @ Crown Tap Room

The official launch party for RE:COM's Social Media issue begins at 8pm tonight at the Crown Tap Room: 2821 N. Milwaukee. RE:COM is a national publication, headquartered in Chicago, that focuses on alternative stand-up comedy. In this issue, they feature Marc Maron, of the WTF podcast, plus Paul F. Tompkins and Comedy Death-Ray Radio's Scott Aukerman. The launch party doubles as the inaugural edition of the Crown Comedy Show, and features James Fritz (whose debut comedy album "Deflated" was recently the No.1 seller on iTunes); Ricky Carmona (featured on HBO Latino); Chad Briggs (winner of Impress These Apes Season Four); Natalie Jose (comedian and singer of the beloved Patsy Cline cover band, the Weepin' Willows); and Sean White, recent Chicago transplant and winner of the RE:COM Perfect Tweet Contest. The show starts at 9pm. There will also be a FREE TACO BAR. More info here.

Winter Block Party @ Chicago Urban Arts Society

The 3rd Annual Winter Block Party kicks off today at Chicago Urban Arts Society (2229 S. Halsted St). Celebrating Chicago's hip hop arts, the event features a visual art and graffiti exhibition by some of the city's most notable and up and coming contemporary artists, along with a marketplace, hip hop barbershop, film screening, live sampling showcase, B-Boy/B-Girl battle hosted by The Legendary Brickheadz, an Open Mic Academy open mic, and music all afternoon by some of Chicago's favorite DJs. The free event runs from 11am to 10pm. For special event ticketing and additional information, check out WBEZ's official event page.

Chicago Art District 2nd Fridays

It's the second Friday of the month, which means galleries and studios in the Chicago Art District (aka East Pilsen, centered on Halsted & 18th streets) are open from 6pm to 10pm tonight. Free. Details here.

The StatiCCreep Exhibition of Sequential Art Opening @ Las Manos Gallery

Chicago has a bastion of sequential artists that enrich the world of comic books through the imprint the city leaves on them -- a certain noir factor absorbed through brick and steel-heavy architecture, inky black alleys and a history of subversive characters has worked its way under their skin. Las Manos Gallery will be the vessel holding more than one hundred original, hand-drawn and painted pieces by more than twenty of these artists. Participating artists include: Alex Wald, Andrew Pepoy, Chris Burnham, Corinne Mucha, Doug Klauba, Hilary Barta, Heather McAdams, Jeffrey Brown, Jenny Frison, Jill Thompson, Tony Akins, Nicole Hollander, Mike Norton, Mitch O'Connell, Sarah Becan, Dave Dorman, Nicole Hollander, Tim Seeley, Lucy Knisley, Gary Gianni, Steve Krakow and Bill Reinhold. The opening reception is tonight at Las Manos Gallery (5220 N. Clark St.) from 6 to 10pm.

Heads On Poles Opens @ Western Exhibitions

Heads on Poles features over 60 local, national and international artists organized by the Chicago-based artists Paul Nudd and Scott Wolniak. The artists, ranging widely in discipline and style, were invited to produce sculptures loosely based on the formula of Head On Pole, in any material. In the side room Terence Hannum's drawings, paintings and video installations cull the periphery of heavy metal and hardcore music subcultures to analyze the nexus of music, myth, audience and ritual. Both shows run through February 19. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm, which is free and open to the public. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N Peoria St.

The Spirit Molecule @ Portage Theater

The Spirit Molecule a "poetic interpretation of the elusive and enigmatic compound, DMT", premiers in Chicago tonight at 8pm at the Portage Theater (4050 N. Milwaukee). Following the screening, there will be a Q & A with the director of the film, Mitch Schultz. Tickets are $10.

Joyce Owens Opening @ Veeck Gallery

Painter Joyce Owens speaks at an opening reception for her exhibition at the Mary-Frances & Bill Veeck Gallery at the Catholic Theological Union Academic and Conference Center, 5416 S. Cornell Ave., 4th Floor. The opening reception is from 5:30pm to 7:30pm; Owens talks at 6:30. Free.

Quennect 4 Benefit Dance Party @ Danny's

Do you remember the story about Quennect 4 that we published last year in A/C? No? This awesome Humboldt Park venue for all forms of art with a strong slant toward world music and local politics was shut down by the city last year, and since then they've been fund raising to relocate-- putting on events around town at places like Multikulti, Wickerwell, and The Music Lounge. Tonight they're hosting a big ole' FREE fundraiser/dance party at Danny's Tavern (1951 W. Dickens) with Peace Party DJs Naomi Walker & Dave Marques + Special Guests DJs Raj Majal & Nate Wells spinning funk, soul, and afrobeat all night. A portion of all sales will be donated toward Q4's mission to reopen legitimately this year. The party is 21+ from 7pm to 2am. No cover charge, as far as we can tell...

Second Story @ Webster Wine Bar

Sip a glass of wine and listen as Second Story's master performers take on the theme of journeys: "Whether they're physical or emotional, they transport us from one place to another. A road trip, a cab ride, a trip to Thailand and a bus fare across town - join our storytellers this month and hear stories about the mileage and psychic distances travelled to take a stand for who we are."

Storytellers: JC Aveliotis, Shiow-Jiau Yung, Johanna Stein, and Doug Whippo. Curated by Deb Lewis. Directed by Megan O'Donoghue. Sound by Andrew Wheatley.

Doors @ 7pm. Stories start at 7:30pm. $10 online, $15 at the door. Limited number of walk-ups available.

Tickets and info: http://www.2ndstory.com/whatis/when.php

Chicago Artists' Coalition Holiday Sale

For one last weekend, Coalition Gallery artists are offering original works, ALL PRICED UNDER $100. Art for sale includes pottery, works on paper, glassware, photography and more. This sale is going on today from 12pm to 6pm at 2010 W. Pierce Ave. Admission is free. For more information call the CAC at (773) 772-2385.

Gerard Byrne A thing is a hole in a thing it is not Opens @ Renaissance Society

The Renaissance Society, the Lismore Castle Arts, and 2010 Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art have co-commissioned in collaboration with the Van Abbemuseum a new multi-channel film installation titled "A thing is a hole in a thing it is not." As the title -- a reference to Carl Andre's famous dictum -- suggests, Byrne's attention will be on the historical reception of Minimalism as a movement, a history that is resonant within the context of The Renaissance Society's early engagement with that movement's artists. The opening reception for this installation is today from 4pm to 7pm, with a discussion with the artist from 5 to 6pm. The Renaissance Society is located at 5811 S. Ellis Ave.


New Chicago Comics @ MCA

It's a sequential art kind of January at the Museum of Contemporary art. Today through January 30th, the museum features comic book artists and animators both known and rising -- Jeffrey Brown, Lilli Carré, Paul Hornschemeier, and Anders Nilsen showcase their differing yet equally interesting styles. 220 E. Chicago Ave. $12 suggested admission (free Tuesdays). More information here.

A Certain Ratio Opens @ Roots & Culture

The five artists in A Certain Ratio (Elijah Burgher, Ryan Fenchel, Jonah Groeneboer, Shane Huffman, and Erin Zona) engage abstraction to investigate classic philosophical inquiries -- where math intersects with science, religion and art. A reduction of form to symbolic or geometrical composition imparts their work with a depth of mystical pursuit. The opening reception for this exhibition is tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Roots and Culture: 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Talia Chetrit, Daniel Gordon, & Matthew Metzger Exhibitions Open @ Tony Wight Gallery

In the north gallery, two young photographers (Talia Chetrit and Daniel Gordon) show collaborative work that utilizes the studio as a site of production. While there is an evident parallel between their practices -- both artists compose and photograph temporal situations in their studios -- this exhibition aims to articulate divergences as well as similarities. In the south gallery, three paintings by Matthew Metzger explore the dependency and exchangeability within Figuration and Abstraction as a method to portray the liminal and fleeting qualities that compose aspects of being. The opening reception for these exhibitions is tonight from 5pm to 8pm at Tony Wight Gallery: 845 W. Washington.

Chicago Artists' Coalition Holiday Sale

For one last weekend, Coalition Gallery artists are offering original works, ALL PRICED UNDER $100. Art for sale includes pottery, works on paper, glassware, photography and more. This sale is going on today and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm at 2010 W. Pierce Ave. Admission is free. For more information call the CAC at (773) 772-2385.

Yeh-yeh Good Night: Prints by Sean Dove @ Inkling

Finish the first week of the new year right (and find a great print) with local artist and designer Sean Dove's colorful, whimsical, retro-tinged illustrations: he'll be showing his new work and some old favorites tonight at Inkling, Lakeview's center for arts, crafts, stationery and more. 2917 1/2 N. Broadway St., 6pm-10pm

Confessions of a Chubby Tomboy @ Gorilla Tango Theatre

Stacey Smith brings us her one-person show, Confessions of a Chubby Tomboy tonight only. As a one-night showcase to build exposure, she will not only deliver humorous anecdotes, but share life lessons gleaned from personal experiences. COACT starts at 8pm tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave.).Tickets are $10; to purchase tickets call (773) 598-4549 or visit www.gorillatango.com. For more information about the show visit staceyelisabeth.com.

Krueger, Moore, Baker Group Show Opening Reception @ Packer Schopf Gallery

Michael Krueger: So Alone and Mystified-- drawing/prints, Dominic Paul Moore: you're partially to blame (drawing/painting), and Deborah Baker: Cryptogram (embroidery) opens at Packer Schopf gallery tonight. The reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm at Packer Schopf Gallery (942 W. Lake St.). For details call the gallery at (312) 226-8984 or visit their website: http://www.packergallery.com.

Finding Vivian Maier Exhibit @ Chicago Cultural Center

Tonight marks the opening of the photographic career of the late recluse and North Shore nanny Vivian Maier, whose stunning body of work was discovered at a storage locker auction. An opening reception runs from 5:30 to 7:30pm; the exhibit runs through April 3 at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington.

The Collective (Final Exhibit) Opens @ David Weinberg Gallery

Tonight the David Weinberg Gallery will host its last opening. The show, entitled The Collective, will be a salon style exhibition featuring 21 of their artists. This final exhibit is an opportunity for the gallery to support their artists and display some of their finest works for the last time. The gallery was around for over four years, and this show acts as a thank-you to all those who made it possible. The reception is today from 5pm to 8pm at David Weinberg Gallery: 300 W. Superior, Suite 203. Click here for more details.

David Wojnarowicz: A Fire in My Belly @ Smart Museum of Art

The Smart Museum displays David Wojnarowicz's video A Fire in My Belly, joining institutions around the country who are displaying the work in protest of its removal from the National Portrait Gallery exhibition, Hide/Seek: Desire and Difference in American Portraiture. The original 13-minute video, accompanied by a 7-minute chapter found among the artist's collection, is on display until February 6. The Smart Museum of Art, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. (773) 702-0200. Admission is free. Please check the museum web site for hours.

Best of 2010 Poster Art Show Opens @ Roxaboxen Exhibitions

Roxaboxen Exhibitions has gathered some of the best handmade posters made in 2010 from events around the city. The mediums include everything from silk screens to embroidery, including posters by Ryan Duggan, Aay Preston-Mynt, Josh Davis, April Camlin, Spudnik Press Members, and lots more! Roxaboxen Exhibitions is located at 2130 W 21st St. The reception is from 5pm to 9pm today with a live musical set by A Jacob Wick Band.

Closing Reception for Two Exhibitions @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center For Inuitive And Outsider Art invites the public to the closing receptions for two shows on display: Almost There: A Portrait of Peter Anton; and Forget Me NOT. The reception is from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and admission is free. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue. (312) 243-9088. If you haven't seen Almost There, check out these promos for additional background on Anton and the show's subject matter.

You, Me, Them, Everybody LIVE @ The Hungry Brain

Visit The Hungry Brain tonight for a live podcast recording of "You, Me, Them, Everybody" hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Writer, co-founder of the Chicago Underground Library, and comedian Emerson Dameron will perform. Known more for his zine writer, he's contributed to The 2nd Hand and Chunklet. He's also published many of his own zines including Wherewithal. There will also be a special solo set from Mike Pritchard, the lead singer of Otter Petter. Following YMTE Live! will be a screening of "A Proud Tradition" featuring Ned Hepburn, narration by Emerson Dameron and music by Daniel Knox. View the trailer here. 21+. No Cover. Doors open at 8pm and the show starts at 9. The Hungry Brain in located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave.

Spike Lee Booksigning @ Barbara's Bookstore

Spike Lee will be at Barbara's Bookstore at 4pm today signing his new book, Do The Right Thing. Barbara's Boostore is located at 1218 S. Halsted St. Contact the bookstore at 312-413-2665 for more information.

Winter Solstice @ the Hyde Park Art Center

In recognition of the winter solstice, the Hyde Park Art Center will host a slow but celebratory performance inaugurating the exhibition, The Precession. At precisely 4:21pm, when the sunset begins, 10 performers will raise their glass saluting the setting sun, and the commencement of the exhibition. This performance is free and
open to the public.

GOD Group Exhibition Opens @ Peanut Gallery

GOD, a multimedia group exhibition featuring work by local emerging artists all about God, opens tonight with a reception from 7 to 11pm at Peanut Gallery. All are welcomed-- including animals, gradmothers, and babies of all ages. Wear your Sunday Best. Peanut Gallery is located at 1579 N. Milwaukee (the Flat Iron building) in room 345. Details here.

Family Day: 'Tis the Season @ MCA

'Tis the Season invites families to celebrate the season with contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art today from 11am to 3pm.Families can connect and explore ideas in the galleries, using the designs and colors they see to create their own projects. At 1pm, families can celebrate the season with a special holiday Taiko drumming performance featuring three generation of artists. This performance is a preview for Taiko Legacy 7 on the MCA Stage, December 18 and 19. Free for families with children 12 and under. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago. 312-280-2660.




The Eyes Are The Windows To The Skull New Works by Greg Shirilla Opens @ Revolution Gallery

Greg Shirilla will be showing new works, in 3 distinct styles (painting, digital collage, and photography) at Revolution Tattoo & Gallery. An opening reception will be held tonight from 8pm to midnight. You can see Greg Shirilla's work online at http://www.mistershirilla.com or call (773) 704-7382 for additional information. Revolution Tattoo & Gallery is located at 2221 N. Western Ave.

Reply All

Head to the Evil Olive tonight (1551 W. Division St.) for Reply All -- put on by Merge, a small group of community-minded AIGA Chicago members, it's "like a conference after-party without the long day of conferencing." 7pm-4am.

The Daley Show @ Chicago Urban Art Society

The Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 S. Halsted St., hosts the opening of "The Daley Show" an art tribute to our retiring mayor, tonight starting at 6pm. Free.

ACRE Winter Benefit Country in the City (aka ACRE County Fair) @ Heaven Gallery

Join the rest of the art school elite and bohemian set this Friday for ACRE's Winter Benefit at Heaven Gallery. ACRE needs your support to continue to provide resources for and programming by emerging artists from Chicago and beyond. Hang out with some sheep and chicks in the Petting Zoo! Deck yourself in plaid and grab a corn cob pipe for the photo booth! Sip some home-made hard cider from our new ACRE mugs! Sign up for the cake eating contest with a spin, led by Industry of the Ordinary. Try your luck on our prize wheel! Get some great deals on art by local and national contemporary artists at the art auction and sale.

Keep that warm feeling going and join us for an after-party a few doors down at The Crocodile (1540 N Milwaukee Ave) featuring DJs and dancing, starting at 11pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor. Admission is $20 ($10 for students) suggested donation, and includes 3 raffle tickets. More details here.


Edie Fake Celebrates Release of Gaylord Phoenix @ Quimby's

Gaylord Phoenix follows the danger-fraught journeys of the Gaylord Phoenix, a creature willing to sacrifice anything for lost love and hidden memories. Make a plan to pick up your copy of Edie Fake's newly collected volume in person, at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave, tonight at 7pm, and Edie Fake might hand you a homemade penis-shaped cookie, a limited-edition mix tape, and objets-de-arte.

More info here.

Artist Carrie Mae Weems @ Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago hosts artist Carrie Mae Weems for a discussion of her photography exhibit, The Kitchen Table Series, work that explores the "narrative of African-American family life played out around the central device of the kitchen table." Weems, acclaimed for her work that confronts race, gender, and class issues, will also lecture about her latest project. The program will be held tonight in the Rubloff Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive, from 6pm-7pm; gallery viewing from 7pm-8pm. This event is free and open to the public; to RSVP and for more information, contact aicevents@artic.edu or (312) 443-3127.

Proximity 008 Release Party @ Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar

The Public Media Institute opens Select Media Festival 9: Infoporn II with the release of their own contribution to the information overload. Proximity magazine's Issue 008, themed Education as Art, is a 230 page opus and represents our latest and greatest effort in publishing. Stop by and get a copy at a discount ($10), enjoy some beverages and meet the creators. The upcoming issue of Proximity takes on this theme through a number of profiles, interviews, essays, and narratives. This issue includes meditations, conversations, and collaborations around "education as art" from a number of perspectives. The party is from 7 to 11 tonight at Marias: 3219 S Morgan St. 21+. No Cover.

Brad Killiam National Roundabout Task Force Opens @ Julius Caesar Gallery

Local artist Brad Killam (who co-runs The Suburban gallery in Oak Park) has an exhibition going up at Julius Caesar gallery this month, and the opening is this afternoon from 4 to 7pm. Julius Caesar is located at 3311 W. Carroll Ave. in East Garfield Park. There is plenty of parking and public transportation (Green line, Kimball bus) nearby.

UNEARTHED @ No Nation Gallery

Illinois Institute of Art designers Carmen McGhee and Aris Sergakis collaborated to produce this eventful evening, featuring an art exhibition and a runway show of work by 15 student designers, either original or refurbished from vintage clothing. There is a suggested donation of $3 and the evening will include a cash bar and music. UNEARTHED begins at 7pm and takes place at No Nation Gallery, located at 1542 N Milwaukee.

Buy Art Not People: Launch Party & Screening

An evening of art, film and music by local grassroots organization Buy Art Not People to raise awareness and funds to combat human trafficking. Features silent auction of original artwork by Chicago artists; a screening of the Oscar-nominated short film Kavi, about a boy's struggle in slave labor; music by local band Canasta.

6pm-8pm
1505 W. Chicago Ave, 60642
$15

Learn more at http://buyartnotpeople.org.

Parallel Lines Never Intersect: The Artwork of Connie Noyes Opens @ ThreePeas Gallery

The opening reception for this show is tonight from 6 to 10pm at ThreePeas Gallery: 75 E. 16th St. For details, please visit the gallery's website or Connie Noyes' website.

FugScreens Holiday Party

FugScreens Studio, 1735 N Ashland Ave., presents "Rogue Santa Goes Psycho," a holiday open house tonight at 7pm featuring live, personal button-making, raffles, a mystery poster bin, newly designed t-shirts, and goodie bags, plus live music by Ornery Little Darlings. Free. View the poster for more info. Free.

Brandy Agerbeck @ Inkling

Get in the holiday spirit (and some great, affordable ornaments and cards) tonight at store and gallery Inkling (2917 1/2 N. Broadway St.), which tonight features artist Brandy Agerbeck and her quirky, colorful, and above all visually appealing collection of ornaments. 6pm-10pm, call (773) 248-8004 for more information.

Vintage Bazaar Pop-Up Boutique

Avoid last-minute holiday shopping, and find something charming and retro at the Vintage Bazaar Pop-Up Boutique. This weekend-long event (11am-6pm today, 11am-5pm Sunday), 2955 W. Lyndale.

Vintage Bazaar Pop-Up Boutique Opening Reception

Avoid last-minute holiday shopping, and find something charming and retro at the Vintage Bazaar Pop-Up Boutique. This weekend-long event (runs through Sunday) starts tonight with an opening reception at the bazaar's storefront location, 2955 W. Lyndale, 5-9pm -- attendees can browse the boutique and enjoy beer and snacks. Tickets are limited and can be purchased online ($10), and icket buyers will be entered to win a pair of tickets to The Sea & Cake at Lincoln Hall on Saturday, November 27.

For more information on the bazaar, go here.

Joe McPhee @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Jazz saxophonist Joe McPhee performs solo at Corbett vs. Dempsey, 1120 N. Ashland Ave., tonight at 5pm, as a combination record release party and closing party for Christopher Wool's exhibition of abstract art inspired by McPhee's music. Free. More details here.

SAIC Holiday Art Show

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosts its annual holiday art sale today from 11am to 7pm and Saturday, Nov. 20 from 10am to 5pm in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Avenue. Peruse work by more than 120 SAIC students, for sale for $1 to more than $1,000. Admission is free.

SAIC Holiday Art Show

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosts its annual holiday art sale today from 11am to 7pm and Saturday, Nov. 20 from 10am to 5pm in the MacLean Center Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Avenue. Peruse work by more than 120 SAIC students, for sale for $1 to more than $1,000. Admission is free.

Thought You Knew Calendar Release Party

Thought You Knew releases its latest cyclist pinup calendar with a gala gallery launch at COOP, 845 W. Fulton Market, from 5 to 11pm. Calendars will be on sale, as well as art prints of the pinups and '80s TV stars. Complimentary cocktails will be served. Free.

Rebecca Moy

Tonight at The Illinois Institute of Art Chicago there will be a wonderful opening of new works by artist Rebecca Moy from 5:30p - 7:30p.

up through Jan 17th in Gallery 180
180 N Wabash
312-280-3500

In The Flesh @ 1414 Kingsbury

Art with a feminist theme. In The Flesh is a one night group show in a large space at 1414 N Kingsbury. Expect Performances, Music and Art of the highest order.

Friday Nov 19
7pm - 9pm
1414 N Kingsbury
Free Admission

Garbage World 4: Garbage Fest

Today through Saturday, Chicago based musicians, visual and performance artists of all ages and variations will present their work for the 4th annual Pilsen extravaganza. Budding young artist Katie Literall will stage her solo debut and Matthew Barny approved Yale alumna Heather Marie Vernon is directing an original performance specifically for Garbage Fest. Alexandra Subak and her Laboratory Dancers are sure to entreat along with body sculpture work from Joseph Ravens and a sound installation from Jeff Kolar is surely not to be missed. Line-up, times, and more information on the 20+ artists featured found here. Garbage World 4 is located at 2106 S. Kedzie. $5 Donation requested.

Starshaped Press Open House

Starshaped Press holds its annual open house at 4636 N. Ravenswood Ave. tonight from 7 to 10pm. Shop for letterpress cards, posters and prints, enjoy refreshments and browse the type libraries. Free.

Stew and The Negro Problem @ MCA

Check out Stew, the Tony Award-winning creator and star of Broadway's Passing Strange, and collaborator Heidi Rodeward with bands The Negro Problem and Stew. They've recorded seven albums and are performing tonight and tomorrow night at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E Chicago Ave). Both shows start at 7:30pm. Tickets are $28, $22 for members, and $10 for students. You can purchase tickets and get more information here.

Fractured Lens Video Showcase @ The Portage Theater

Tonight short filmmakers and aspiring video artists from the tri-state area will converge on the Portage Theater (4050 North Milwaukee) for the Fractured Lens Video Festival. Going on its fourth incarnation, this festival highlights the best in short film and video projects made locally by amateurs, professionals and hobbyists by giving them a platform to display their work to the public and on the big screen. This year's event will contain live elements, including a big show opener.

The doors open at 7pm and the show starts promptly at 8pm. For more information about this event, or if you are interested in submitting work to be considered for inclusion in the festival, please visit www.fracturedlensvideo.com.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show

SOFA Expo and the Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art run together at Navy Pier 11am to 8pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday. Tickets are $15 per day, or $50 for a three-day pass.

Coffee & Art: Urban China @ MCA

Urban China: Informal Cities, a retrospective of the only magazine devoted to issues of urbanism published in China, marks Urban China's first U.S. commission. Employing diagrams, photographs, texts, and archive of artifacts and images, Urban China has become a think tank and databank recording the fastest urbanization in history. After viewing Urban China in the MCA's gallery, the group considers it within the context of a long history of exhibitions about the city, discussing what aspects of cities are represented, and which aspects tend to be left out. Led by architect, writer, and UIC professor Alexander Eisenschmidt. To register, call the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010. This event is today from 10am to noon. Admission is $20, $14 for students.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show

SOFA Expo and the Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art run together at Navy Pier 11am to 8pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday. Tickets are $15 per day, or $50 for a three-day pass.

Marwen Benefit Art Fair with Threadless @ Marwen's Gallery

Marwen announces its fifth annual Art Fair, a celebration, exhibition, and sale featuring approximately 150 works created by Marwen students, alumni, staff, and teaching artists. Half of the proceeds of each work sold benefits Marwen's free art programs for Chicago's under-served young people; the other half benefits the artist.Lowry Hill is the presenting sponsor of Art Fair. Art Fair attendees may vote for the winners of the "Threadless Live at Marwen" t-shirt design challenge; full proceeds of Threadless display art sold at the event benefit Marwen.

The Art Fair is today from 5:30 to 11pm (DJ set begins at 8pm) in Marwen's River North gallery space at 833 North Orleans. A suggested donation of $40 includes food and drinks; $30 advance tickets available (before October 31) at Marwen.org. The phone number for general inquiries is (312) 944-2418.

SOFA Chicago & Intuit Show

SOFA Expo and the Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art run together at Navy Pier 11am to 8pm Friday and Saturday, 11am to 6pm Sunday. Tickets are $15 per day, or $50 for a three-day pass.

It's Your Funeral @ Tattoo Factory Gallery

The Tattoo Factory Gallery (4443 N. Broadway) presents the opening night of It's your Funeral, an art show inspired by death. Sounds fun, no? The opening is tonight at 6pm. For more information see the gallery's Facebook page.

Neo-Obama Portrait-O-Rama

The Neo-Futurists are holding a theater benefit tonight to unveil the Barack Obama portrait in their long-running art installation Hall of Presidents (the portraits of every US President that hang in the entrance hall of the Neo-Futurarium theater). Included tonight will be refreshments, music and performances by the Neo-Futurists, and a silent auction of the runner-up Obama portraits. Tickets are $25 in advance, $35 at the door. See the Neo-Futurists Website for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland, at Foster. (773) 275-5255.

Darger Puppet Show by The Anatomy Collective @ Intuit

Following the Contemporary Authors and the Artistic Process panel event, theater group The Anatomy Collective (TAC) was given about three weeks to develop an exclusive puppet show that blended the tracings, clippings, ephemera and writing generated and collected by Darger with the book collectively created by attendees of CUL's panel. The resulting performance today showcases TAC's talents and resourcefulness in a whimsical epic that re-interprets Darger's (home) life and (studio) work and the readers and viewers it continues to inspire. Admission: donations. 6pm. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Works In Progress Night @ Quimby's

Got creative stuff you're fiddling around with - comics, zines, poetry, screenplays? Need some input or just tired of toiling in silence? Head out to Works In Progress at Quimby's tonight, or any last Wednesday of the month. They'll bring the snacks! Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., 7pm.

Penguin Foot Pottery Grand Opening

Long-time art teacher and ceramics artist Chris Busse is opening his own studio with partner Paige Bailey, and offering a variety of classes for all ages and skill levels: learn to hand-sculpt, throw with the wheel, or work with tile, in a bright, attractive space conveniently located near the Western Blue Line stop. Exhibiting artists include Chris Busse (ceramics), Tina Chan (jewelry), and Sean Hewe (paintings).

5% off classes for anyone who registers during the grand opening. Beverages and finger foods will be served. 2514 W. Armitage, 6pm - 9pm. Free!

Mugs @ LVL3 Gallery

More than just a means of holding your morning coffee, mugs are objects to be bought, sold, collected, and given. As our culture changes, so too does our relationship to such everyday objects. Mugs, held in conjunction with Chicago Artists Month, is an unconventional approach to artistic expression where each artist selects a mug that holds personal symbolic meaning. The opening reception for Mugs takes place tonight from 6pm to 10pm at the temporary LVL3 project space in the Merchandise Mart, 222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1573. The exhibition runs through October 31.

The Level Eater @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

In conjunction with Pentagon gallery, Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.) presents THE LEVEL EATER, opens up tonight at 8pm. This exhibition features the work of Jeriah Hildwine, Luke Willard, Michael Garcia, Nick Bahr and Sam Sieger. This three day event combines two worlds, turning gaming into art and art into gaming. Games of Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Magic: The Gathering and "unique" fantasy games to explore, view and participate in. If you are still interested in participating in this event as a player or want to run a little adventure please email pentagon961@gmail.com. To RSVP, please click here.

Christopher Wool Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Corbett vs. Dempsey, 1120 N. Ashland Ave., presents an exhibition of works by Chicago-raised artist Christopher Wool this month, with an opening reception tonight from 5pm to 9pm. The large-scale abstract paintings in the show are inspired by jazz musician Joe McPhee, who will be performing at a record release party Nov. 20 to close the exhibition. Free.

Ag47 Meet & Greet @ Grace UMC

The Logan Square arts mentoring organization Ag47 (previously discussed in A/C) is recruiting girls aged 11-16. At this "make and take" event, girls will get to tackle a short creative project, while their parents are encouraged to meet the mentors and find out more about this year's program. Applications for girls who want to participate are also due by the end of the day: they're available for download on Ag47's site. The event will take place from 4-6pm at Grace United Methodist Church, 3325 W. Wrightwood. Contact Ag47 via email with any questions.

BamBUDDHAed! @ Portage ARTspace

BAMBuddhaed! Or I Ching, You Ching, We All Ching... for I Ching opens up this evening at Portage ARTspace, 4837 West Berenice at 5pm. This exhibition co-curated by Larry Lee and Johannah Silva, blurs the literal boundary between home and gallery and investigates how we neatly file artwork neatly in terms of feng shui. For more information and to RSVP, please click here.

Patterns @ Betty Dare Art Gallery

Come out tonight at 7pm to Betty Dare Art Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave to experience Patterns, featuring the Paula Henderson's installation, Ryan Morris' stencils and June Farley's photographs. Cocktails will be served. To RSVP please click here.

(hybrid)nate * germinate Opens @ Church of T.H.ink

(hybrid)nate * germinate is an interactive group exhibit promoting a hybrid of visual, audible, and functional arts in a environment playfully designed to elicit humor, expression, TEXTural touch, and productivity, opening tonight. Church of T.H.ink is in an under developed district in need of artistic renewal and has given the artists and gallery an ability to hibernate and compose ideas which can stimulate and redefine the germination of new concepts and products. Church of T.H.ink is located at 3722 W. Chicago Ave. For event details, click here. Contact the people behind the madness at 773-269-8351 or churchofthink@gmail.com.

Licking Eyeballs & Loving it! Opens @ Pawn Works

Tonight Pawn Works presents Licking Eyeballs & Loving it!: New works by Matt Scobey x Josh Wills. The opening reception is from 7-11pm. Pawn Works is located at 1050 N. Damen Ave. For event details, click here or visit Pawn Works' website.

Existence Value @ Roots and Culture

Come out tonight to Roots and Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. at 6pm to experience the Paul and Scott Cowan's exhibition. Existence Value investigates the intrinsic value people and cultures give to things. This exhibition investigates how signs hold a particular magnetism to all individuals. For RSVP and more information, please click here.

SoLo Art Walk / Fall Classic / FRIDAY October 15th

GREATER SOUTH LOOP ASSOCIATION
Presents
SoLo Art Walk / Fall Classic
Start your evening at:
5:00 William H. Bigham Gallery 1528 S Wabash
5:30 Three Peas Art Gallery 75 E. 16th Street
6:15 HARPER Gallery 1915 S Michigan Avenue
7:00 Glessner House Museum 1800 S Prairie

THIS WAS THE KIND OF PRESENTATION OF ALL THE MATERIAL @ LG Space

Come out to the LG Space, 37 South Wabash Room 220 this evening at 4pm to experience THIS WAS THE KIND OF PRESENTATION OF ALL THE MATERIAL. Benjamin Chaffee's exhibition is a performance composed of objects, lectures, and a play. For more information and to RSVP, please click here.


Taste of Ten: Beyondmedia Gala @ Architectural Artifacts

Chicago media-arts nonprofit Beyondmedia Education celebrates its 10th anniversary with an evening of food and fun tonight at Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood Ave). Indulge in an array of culinary delights provided by ten of Chicago's top chefs. The event runs from 6-10pm and includes Media Justice Awards, live entertainment and dancing. VIP, general admission and low income tickets are available. Call (773) 857-7300 for details or visit the website.

Art Book Swap @ Art Institute Library

Bring art books you don't want and take home new titles that pique your interest at this swap organized by the New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) and Regency Arts Press, Ltd.. Leftover books will be donated to Urbana-Champaign Books to Prisoners. The swap runs from noon to 5pm in the Franke Reading Room of the Art Institute's Ryerson and Burnham Libraries. There is no charge, but participants must enter at the museum's Michigan Avenue entrance (111 S. Michigan Ave.), (312) 443-3671.

Chicago Art District 2nd Fridays

Visit galleries centered around 18th and Halsted in East Pilsen as the Chicago Art District holds its Second Fridays tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted St. Free.

Vacation Group Art Show Opening @ Peanut Gallery

Peanut Gallery is having their third opening tonight-- a vacation-themed group show with paintings, drawings and photographs by twelve local artists: Daniel Schmid, Justin Nalley, Anna Timmerman, Bill Guy, Aaron Tucker, Christina Anderson, Jack Edinger, Edmund White, Sheena Jones, Kerry Couch, Charlie Megna and Kelly Reaves. BONUS: A performance by the majestic Brandon Howe during the opening reception, which is tonight from 7 to 10 at Peanut Gallery: 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Rm. 345.

Love Flows Both Ways: Street Culture x Contemporary Art @ Chicago Loop Alliance

Love Flows Both Ways: Street Culture x Contemporary Art was curated by Oliver Hild of the Maxwell Colette Gallery. This show features artwork by monster-sized international art-stars: Banksy, Bast, Faile, Keith Haring, Shepard Fairey, Kaws, Buff Monster, Crash, Space Invader, Takashi Murakami, Damien Hirst, Saber, Slinkachu, Barry Mcgee, Ray CRO Noland and others. See the Facebook event page for details. The opening for this show is tonight from 5:30-10pm at 11 E. Adams St.

Ravenswood Art Walk

The ninth annual Ravenswood Art Walk runs Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm in the Ravenswood Corridor. See work by more than 300 artists in a variety of venues, from galleries and artist studios to offices and machine shops. Free.

Free Japanese Woodblock Seminar @ Floating World Gallery

If you like Japanese woodblock prints, go to a free seminar at Floating World Gallery: "The Great Wave: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints." The seminar will be held on Saturday, Oct. 2 from 1 to 3 p.m. The gallery is located at 1925 N. Halsted Street. A brief reception with light refreshments will follow the presentation. For reservations, email classes@floatingworld.com. For more information call 312-587-7800.

You can also view works from the exhibition, "Creating What Has Never Been," an exhibition of Japanese post-war paintings and contemporary ceramics, on display through Nov. 19.

History, Violence, Disquiet @ MCA Theater

Featuring a reading by local author Aleksandar Hemon, a conversation with members of performance group Superamas, and a conversation with artist Luc Tuymans led by curator and writer Hamza Walker, this afternoon symposium explores how artists confront the often fragmented narratives of violence prevalent in mass-media. A book signing takes place following the program. "History, Violence, Disquiet" takes place at 1pm in the MCA Theater, located at 220 E Chicago. Tickets are $12, $8 for students and are available at the MCA Box Office or by phone at 312-397-4010.

Ravenswood Art Walk

The ninth annual Ravenswood Art Walk runs Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm in the Ravenswood Corridor. See work by more than 300 artists in a variety of venues, from galleries and artist studios to offices and machine shops. Free.

GLI.TC/H Screening and Performance @ Nightingale

Come out tonight to Nightingale Theater, 1084 N Milwaukee Ave at 7pm to experience a night of the GLI.TC/H Festival! Featuring works and performances by Theo Darst, Jon Satrom, Ben Baker-Smith, Evan Kuhl, Jimmy Joe Roche and many more. For more information, please click here and RSVP here.

Kick Off Chicago Artists Month

Gapers Block hosts the opening night of Chicago Artists Month at the Pilsen East Artists Open House. Join us at 2003 S. Halsted from 6pm to 10pm to view two galleries filled with works by artists from around the city and right there in Pilsen East, enjoy complimentary drinks from local sports drink startup Greater Than, and support the vibrant art scene in Chicago. This doubles as our monthly GB Get-Together; join us after the show for an afterparty at a nearby bar, TBA.

The exhibition will be on view over the weekend, too, from noon to 7pm.

McKeever Donovan: Hold Me @ Monument2

Come out tonight at 6pm to Monument2 (2007 N. Point St.), to experience Hold Me! McKeever Donovan's sculptural works provoke an imbalance with fabricated forms, their suggestive function and dislocates the gesture.

Celebrate the Power of Preservation @ The Former Sears Power House

Preservation Chicago's annual fund-raising event will be held this evening at the historic Sears Power House in Chicago's Lawndale neighborhood, 931 S. Homan Avenue. The party will run from 7pm-10pm, with an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, music by the Corey Wilkes quartet, tours of the building and a silent auction. Tickets are $85 in advance or $100 at the door. Free valet parking will be provided.

Alexis Gideon @ Roxaboxen/No Coast

Come out tonight at 8:00pm to Roxaboxen/No Coast, 2130 West 21st Street. Alexis Gideon performs his one-man video opera, Video Musics II: Sun Wu-Kong. To RSVP, please click here.

Torluemke Lets It All Hang Out in The Exhibitionist @ Co Prosperity Sphere

This is sure to be an amazing must see in Chicago on Friday. Tom Torluemke has been a part of the arts in Chicago for decades and has impressed every step of the way. The most exciting thing about this show is that I am sure Tom has had complete creative control of this show, and when you put and artist with Tom's experience and vision in control you always get one hell of an experience.

Friday September 24, 2010 from 6 - 11 p.m.
Co Prosperity Sphere
3219-21 South Morgan St

Sarah Mosk @ Kokorokoko

Come out this evening at 5:00pm to Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland Ave. to check out Chicago artist, Sarah Mosk's work! This opening party features food,drink and discounts! This is your chance to meet the artist and hang out! To RSVP, please click here!

Let Each One Go Where He May @ Nightingale

Come out tonight to Cinema Borealis, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. to experience Let Each One Go Where He May! Set in Surinam, Russell's latest investigation of ethnography and representation is simultaneously beautiful, political and formally complicated. This film is also a telling document of Surinam's shifting landscape, as the brothers pass through a crowded city, lush jungles, a gold mine and rural villages as they trace their ancestral path. Please click here for more information!

Camilla Ha's final Chicago performance @ Reversible Eye Gallery

Chicago-based sound artist/dancer/designer/visual artist Camilla Ha presents "The Cosmic Mind of Black Leather," a multimedia event featuring avant garde music, interactive installations, wall paintings, and video projection. Ha, a prominent artist in Chicago for over 10 years, has created this event as a farewell before relocating to New York. She will perform in collaboration with Jason Soliday, and the evening's events will also include readings by Gregory Jacobsen and Gabriel Wallace, a performance by Instinct Control, and dancing with DJs Alex Valentine and Rand Sevilla. The event begins at 8 p.m. at Reversible Eye Gallery, 1103 N. California. The non-performance elements of the piece will be on display through September 30. Admission is free. More information at Transmission.

Trypps @ MCA

The Trypps film series features seven films by Ben Russell at MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. The films featured in the series are entitled Black and White Trypps Number One, Black and White Trypps Number Two, Black and White Trypps Number Three, Black and White Trypps Number Four, Trypps #5 (Dubai), Trypps#6 (Malobi) and Trypps#7 (Badlands). These series can be best described as a psychedelic ethnography, an aim to combine self knowledge with a traveling dialect. For more information, please click here.

Ben Russell's Artist Talk @ MCA

Come out at 6:00pm today to the MCA, 220 E. Michigan Ave, Ben Russell will directing an Artist Talk: Illustrated by a Selection of Moving Images. Ben Russell curates a film series featuring Forcefield's Third Annual Roggabogga Motion Picture, Ferdinand Zecca's The Red Spectre, Kenneth Anger's Invocation of My Demon Brother, Timothy Asch and Napoleon Chagnon's Children's Magical Death, Gerard Holthuis's Marsa Abu Galawa, Ben Rivers' This Is My Land and Gunvor Nelson's My Name is Oona.

Post War + Contemporary Art Sale @ Wright

The West Town auction house Wright kicks off its fall season with this sale of post-war and contemporary art, which includes notable works from San Francisco-based collectors Themistocles and Dare Michos. The auction begins at noon at Wright, 1440 W. Hubbard St., 312-563-0020.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The sixth annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts brings together artwork by more than 150 artists for a juried exhibition and neighborhood festival on Broadway Avenue between Belmont and Roscoe this weekend. Enjoy art, music, food and shopping from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Free, but donations accepted. More information here.

What is a hammer? @ ADDS DONNA

Come out this evening at 3:00pm to ADDS DONNA, 4223 W. Lake St. #422 to experience What is a hammer?! This exhibition features work by Ilia Ovechkin, Jared Madere and Leah Patgorski. Admission is free, please click here to RSVP!

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The sixth annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts brings together artwork by more than 150 artists for a juried exhibition and neighborhood festival on Broadway Avenue between Belmont and Roscoe this weekend. Enjoy art, music, food and shopping from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Free, but donations accepted. More information here.

Sex, Power & Labor Opens @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Intentionally and ironically falling on September 11, this show is devised as an interdisciplinary conversation addressing systematic institutional oppressions of 'other'. In addressing the 'other' through the queering of pieces, the art works re-evaluate race, gender, class and systems of power that oppress. Commencing as a one night event on the 9th anniversary of September 11, the curators have sought to bring together works, pieces, actions to negotiate a new media-ridden contemporary art space. Notably loaded and intertwined, Sex, Power & Labor are chosen categorizations to implicate the works in an intricate visual landscape. The opening and closing for this show is tonight from 7 to midnight at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 South Morgan Street) with an after party at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar.

The Playground Improv Marathon @ The Playground Theater

At 6:00pm today, The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted St. hosts The Playground Improv Marathon. This event is in benefit of child literacy and Illinois Coalition of Reach Out and Read and the Playground Theater features nine members of K.C. Redheart who will be testing their wits, endurance and sanity. Please click here for more information!

The Glitzy Gold Coast Tour

Take a walk with the Chicago History Museum and learn about public art, architecture, early Chicago history, and Chicago's high society. The tour runs from 10 am to 12 noon. Tickets are $15 or $10 for museum members. To purchase tickets, click here.

George Gittins @ Monument 2

Come out this evening at 6pm to the opening reception of George Gittins's exhibition entitled Feeling One Way or Another at Monument 2, 2007 N Point St! His work is based on the intuitive process of creating paintings, he refrains from theatricality while advocating spontaneity. For more information, visit the website or RSVP here!

Design, Drama, and Discord @ Hungryman Gallery

Come out tonight at 6:00pm to Hungryman Gallery, 2135 N. Rockwell St. to experience Design, Drama, and Discord! Featured in this exhibition are Timothy Bergstrom's paintings of cartoon figures, vernacular images and texts that meld into an anomalous potentiality. To RSVP, click here!

Meet Illinois Artisans @ Water Works Visitor Center

The newly remodeled Water Works Visitor Center, 163 E. Pearson, will host art-making demonstrations and offer artisan wares for sale from 1-5 pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a kind jewelry, fiber, and ceramics pieces during the monthly program, hosted by the Chicago Office of Tourism and the Illinois Artisans Program.

Art Opening After Party @ Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar

Lord of the Yum Yum plays Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar with Lazer Crystal guest spinning all night. Lord of the Yum Yum will go on at 11pm. Maria's is located at 960 W 31st Street. Admission is free. 21+. For details, visit Maria's website.

Megan Greene & Carolyn Ottmers Exhibition Opens @ Carrie Secrist Gallery

Megan Greene's current body of work includes drawing and collages built using Audubon bird prints. This exhibition showcases her interest in hybridization, extended to the treatment of surface, i.e. the seamless and discordant shifts between passages drawn v. photographic and representational v. abstract. The original image of each creature is elaborated and dissolved, elided with found images and subsumed by pattern. As a result the images are intermediate, shifting, and newly animate. Carolyn Ottmers work often calls attention to the detail and beauty of the natural world. She accomplishes this by representing it in an exaggerated scale. In her most recent body of work, the artist has made use of her exceptional fabrication skills, by producing absurdly oversize yet still delicate models of plants cast in stainless steel. In the "Splice" series Ottmers has completed studies of plants that thrive in urban environments, such as those that are seen breaking through cracks in city sidewalks and growing up sides of buildings. The sculptures produce lyrical shadows on the gallery walls, creating an installation that mimics a forest or jungle. The opening reception for these shows is today from 5 to 8pm at Carrie Secrist Gallery: 835 W. Washington Blvd. Visit the gallery's website for details.

Poignant Trash @ EC Gallery

At 6pm, experience Connie Noye's Poignant Trash at EC Gallery, 215 N. Aberdeen! This exhibitions is a part of her series, which deals with metaphor of living in an urban environment, the detritus of life such as dust, debris, and items normally ignored and underutilized. For more information, please contact Ewa Czeremuszkin at info@ec-gallery.com or call (312) 850-0924.

Michael Nudelman's Light & Magic & Samantha Bittman Open @ Thomas Robertello Gallery

Nudelman's painstaking process of creating ballpoint pen drawings, rendered in tens of thousands of small diagonal lines, currently is engaged with the hyper-romanticized landscape. The sources of his imagery are reproductions of famous artists' work. For this show, consisting of nine drawings made in the past two years, Nudelman explores the work of American landscape artists, including several Hudson River School painters. Exploring the relationship between structure and image, Bittman's paintings follow a predetermined set of guidelines dictating color, pattern, order, and texture. Four of the five paintings in the exhibition are on stretched handwoven cloth. The warp, weft, and weave structures remain visible, and are underscored or fully revealed by the painted patterns. A balance of play and logic becomes evident as underlying texture and form melds with a rational but imperfect overlay of painted areas. This subtle juxtaposition often gives way to an optical buzz that breaks down upon close inspection, making perception elusive and fully dependent on the viewer's physical proximity to the work. The wide array of visual effects produced by individual works is extraordinary, ranging from a razor sharp flicker, much like a strobe light, to a meditative calm. The opening reception for these shows is today, probably from 5 to 8pm, but please contact the gallery to be sure. Thomas Robertello Gallery is located at 939 W. Randolph St.

PDBTS Book Signing & Reading @ Chicago Urban Art Society

In Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs, graffiti artist-turned-organizer Billy Wimsatt charts the rise and future of Obama movement, hitting the road for a book tour through twelve swing states. Equal parts hip-hop memoir, razor-sharp analysis of the current political climate, and self-help manual for the progressive movement, Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs: A Midterm Report on My Generation and the Future of Our Super Movement (Akashic) will hit bookstores in September.
Limited Edition designed PDBTS screen printed posters designed and signed by Erik RISK DeBat available. For more information about Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs or Wimsatt's Swing State Book Tour, please visit http://www.akashicbooks.com/pleasedont.htm. This event is tonight from 6 to 11pm at Chicago Urban Art Society: 2229 South Halsted Street.


Michael Ferris Jr., Eric Stotik & Frank Trankina @ Packer Schopf Gallery

To start their 23rd fall season Packer Schopf gallery has grouped three artists into three solo exhibitions: Michael Ferris Jr., Eric Stotik and Frank Trankina. All three artists work in a traditional format (painting, drawing, and/or sculpture) but share an underlying forwardness in the way they approach their particular subject matter through composition. They all mine the figure, directly or indirectly, and communicate different aspects of art history and personal narrative via their straightforward mediums. Each is obsessive in their own way and manifests it through exceptional technique. The opening reception is today from 5 to 8pm at Packer Schopf: 942 W. Lake St. Visit the gallery's website for details.

Ben Stone & Joey Fauerso @ Western Exhibitions

Western Exhibitions kicks off the fall season with new work by Ben Stone and Joey Fauerso. Stone's six new sculptures and one small painting transform two-dimensional images culled from popular sources into compelling and uncanny three-dimensional forms. "Act Natural", a solo exhibition by Joey Fauerso opens in Gallery 2. Fauerso will show two videos and figurative watercolors on paper that combine landscapes and figures, exploring a grey area between fantasy and reality. The opening reception for these exhibitions is tonight from 5 to 8 at Western Exhibitions: 119 N. Peoria, #2A. For details, visit Western Exhibition's website.

Justin Henry Miller: Remnants of a Radiant Tomorrow Opens @ Zg Gallery

Justin Henry Miller's new paintings and altered vintage photographs will be on display at Zg Gallery today through October 23. The opening reception is today from 5:30pm-7:30pm at Zg Gallery: 300 W. Superior. The artist will be on hand for conversation. For details, click here.

Kelly Kaczynski's The Stagehand's Unseen & Kirsten Leenaars Exhibitions Open @ Threewalls Gallery

In The Stagehand's Unseen, Kelly Kaczynski constructs a stage that fills threewalls gallery to its perimeter. Arranging sculptural objects from "Olympus Manger" onto the stage, the objects take the place of actors and propose narrative as a topography that is open to the wanderings of the individual. Unlike previous installments of "Olympus Manger", The Stagehand's Unseen does not invite the audience to interact with the exhibition, rather this landscape of objects creates desire through their stasis and limited accessibility, as the props remain just on the verge of being re-deployed yet on pause. Kirsten Leenaars work is also on exhibit in the project room. The opening reception for these shows is tonight from 6 to 9 at Threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2C.

John Henley & Carol Jackson Exhibition Opens @ Roots & Culture

The work of John Henley and Carol Jackson exists in a world where ideological fervor and the quest for power have become empty exercises. Henley's paintings of primitive figures comingle with Jackson's icons of former triumph in a still hopeful ghost town of former
sophistication and glory at Roots and Culture gallery. The opening reception is tonight from 6 to 9 at Roots & Culture: 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. For details, visit Roots & Culture's website.

Chris Johanson Backwards Toward Forwards Opens @ Kavi Gupta

Chris Johanson's Backwards Toward Forward opens in the main gallery and a group show curated by Johanson, including work by Julia Asherman, Gary Groves, Dave Schubert and Masao Yamamoto opens in the project room. Visit Kavi Gupta's website for details. The opening reception is from 5 to 8 tonight at Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 West Washington Blvd.

Philip Hanson The Subtle Diagram & Michiko Itatani Cosmic Wanderlust Open @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Long-time Chicago imagist Philip Hanson shows his new, very ambitious paintings and drawings incorporating poetry by several writers, primarily Emily Dickinson but also William Blake, William Shakespeare and Gerard Manley Hopkins in the main gallery. In the east wing, Michiko Itatani shows 50 5"x5" new paintings, each one its own complete cosmos, part of an interrelated series of images based on fantastic intergalactic libraries (Itatani calls these "hyper-baroque") and a magical nighttime woodland scene ("Moon-Light/Mooring") with rings of mysterious illuminated globes that appear in both series. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.

R'Fuah: New Works by Max Kauffman Opens @ Pawn Works

Popular Denver folk artist Max Kauffman is showing new work at Pawn Works: 1050 N. Damen. The opening is tonight from 6pm to 10pm.

Adrian Orange, Ali Baba, Shakers, Chaperone and Vince Gaulin @ CAMP BELL

Come out this evening at 9pm to celebrate and donate at a fundraiser show for Mali at CAMP BELL, 4929 S. Campbell. It's Steps away from the Orange Line- Western stop, or take the #49 to Western and 50th. The entertainment this evening includesAdrian Orange, Ali Baba, Shakers, Chaperone and Vince Gaulin! Admission is free, but a $5 donation is encouraged.

John Henley and Carol Jackson @ Roots & Culture

Come out this evening at 6pm to explore the opening reception of an exhibition by Carol Jackson and John Henley at Roots & Culture, 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave. This dynamic duo's show garners inquiry of material values that affirm and revoke one's entity. Henley's figurative paintings question the idea of dominance in relation to supremac,y while Jackson's recall a nomenclature reassignment of former respected symbols.

Meet Illinois Artisans @ Water Works Visitor Center

The newly remodeled Water Works Visitor Center, 163 E. Pearson, will host art-making demonstrations and offer artisan wares for sale from 1-5pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a kind jewelry, fiber, and ceramics pieces during the monthly program, hosted by the Chicago Office of Tourism and the Illinois Artisans Program.

Street Anatomy @ International Museum of Surgical Science

Street Anatomy, a group exhibition focusing on representations of human anatomy in contemporary art and pop culture will open tonight from 5pm to 9pm at the International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive. More information about the exhibition is available on the corresponding blog.

Opening Reception for Rar Rar Press show @ Inkling

Lakeview shop/gallery Inkling is throwing an opening reception for letterpress artist Rebecca Ann Rakstad, the maker behind RAR RAR PRESS. Snarky sentiments meet positive reinforcement with these original prints, notebooks and stationery. Each are hand set using wood and metal type old school style. The show runs until September 27th. Inkling is located at 2917 1/2 N. Broadway St., Chicago. (773) 248-8004. The reception tonight runs from 6pm-10pm. Free admission.

Patricia Treib @ GOLDEN

Come out to 6:00PM to Golden Gallery, 816 W. Newport to the opening reception of an exhibition of new paintings by Patricia Treib. Featured in this exhibition will be two corresponding bodies of work which include intimate paintings on paper and large gestural paintings on canvas. The two different modes operate on different scales and tie abstraction to a process of un-naming.

New Work from New York @ GOLDEN

Starting at 9:00 at GOLDEN, 3319 N. Broadway wil be a debut of New Work
from New York
. Running through October 16th, this is a group exhibition featuring the work of Richard Aldrich, Jessica Dickinson, Josephine Halvorson, Erik Lindman and Eric Palgon.

First Fridays: MAZES @ MCA

Come out tonight to at 6pm to the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave, for their First Fridays! This issue is fashion focused, featuring a cinematic performance with Ben Russell and Joe Grimm entitled MAZES. Tickets are $18 at the door and $13 in advance, available through the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010 or online. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

plain plane @ Slow

Come out to Slow at 6:00PM for the opening reception of plain plane.This exhibition features Chicago painter Todd Chilton and New York sculptor Mike Peter Smith. Running through September 4, Chilton's paintings utilizes pragmatic principles to challenge the absolutes of the past while Smith's sculptural works focus on the impulsive and childlike demeanor of life.

SPILL @ Betty Rhymer Gallery

Come on out this evening at 4:30PM to the opening reception of SPILL at the Betty Rhymer Gallery, 280 S. Columbus Drive! This is an SAIC Undergraduate painting exhibition curated by Judith Geichman and John Phillips. This exhibition features work by Brian James Bartlett, Stephanie Brown, Inah Choe, Jan Christopher-Berkson, Chris Urban, Coyote Detlaff, Jennifer Diaz, Sarah Doll, John Dominguez, Danica Favorito, Rachel Fay, Ali Gibbons, Danny Giles, Wyatt Grant, Samantha Haring, Zachary Hunter Harvey, Alyssa Herlocher, Ji Soo Hong, Julieann Hu, Heelim Hwang, Ryan Ingebritson, Emma E. James, Elizabeth Jung, Andre Kerm...an, Youjeong Kwon, Jihee Lee, Manuel López Aguilar, Betsy O'Brien, Sohhee Oh, Tilghman Pelczar, Tessa Perutz, Stephani Plichta, Betany Porter, Brenna Quinn, Dan Rizzo-Orr, Daniel Schmid, Joey K Sheung, Jessica Turcios, Tully, Jobet Uy and Nayeon Yang.

Illusion of Safety, Jon Mueller, Fielded & Psychic Steel @ Reuben's Palace

Come out tonight at 9:30pm to drone and zone out to the jams of Illusion of Safety, Jon Mueller, Fielded & Psychic Steel at Reuben's Palace,1620 N Fairfield! Experience the electro-acoustic, noise, sound collage, improvisation, and power electronics of Illusions of Safety, the acoustic and rambunctious rhythms of Jon Mueller, lush melodies with perfect harmonies of Fielded and Ppogged drumming with intricate synths of Psychic Steel all in one night. Admission is free, suggested donation is 5 dollars. Please RSVP here!

THE JOKE IS IRRESISTIBLE @ Sullivan Galleries

Opening this evening at 4:30PM at the SAIC Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor is The Joke is Irresistible. Curated by Joe Iverson, this exhibition challenges various tropes of masculinity and the gendered gaze. This area remain largely undocumented in gender studies and is analyzed by borrowing from the feminist tradition and applying the same tools to questions of masculinity. This exhibition's artists include Christopher Bradley, Andy Cahill, Jason Conny, Anthony Creeden, Alan Fleming and Michael Fleming, Joe Grimm, Millie Kapp and Isabella Ng, Mik Kastner, Ei Jane, Janet Lin and Miao Jiaxin.

Maximalism: Fashion Show @ Happy Dog Gallery

The Sometimes Store, The Gaudy God and Sisterman present Maximalism: Fashion Show tonight at Happy Dog Gallery (1542 N. Milwaukee Ave.). The show will feature 24 all nude and black looks comprised of '80s and '90s new vintage. All looks will be available for purchase after the show. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8, and the afterparty runs until midnight.

Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar Grand Opening Party

Formerly known as Kaplan's Liquors, Maria's is an old style Chicago tavern: half liquor store, half bar. Maria Marszewski has owned it since 1986 and is now handing off the managerial reigns to her sons Mike and Ed (co-creator of Co-Prosperity Sphere and The Public Media Institute). The bar has been given an artsy makeover and has been re-purposed as a place for artists to gather and commune in Bridgeport. There are some nice features: chandeliers made of beer bottles; recycled hardwood benches; hand crafted butcher block tables; and Mike's beer can collection is featured in the bathrooms. Local artists' work adorn the walls, and a vast network of artists, musicians and cultural workers of all stripes DJ each night. Bobby Conn and Julie Pomerleau will perform tonight and spiritual guru and advisor, Joe Bryl, the DJ of Djs will be on the turntables playing some of his esoteric collection of 45s. The party is from 7pm to 2am tonight at Maria's: 960 W 31st Street in Bridgeport. 21+.

COLOR @ 345 Gallery

A dynamic and colorful multimedia group show by about a dozen local, emerging artists focusing on color opens tonight at 345 Gallery (Flat Iron Arts Building: 1579 N. Milwaukee, Rm. 345). Artists include A/C writers Hiba Ali and Kelly Reaves, among others. The opening reception runs from 6 to 9pm.

Banana Thieves and Caged Birds @ Harper Gallery

Harper Gallery is having an end of summer opening with 2 exceptionally fun artists. Jessie Smith-Larson and Mr. Walter will be presenting their own brand of inspired creativity this Friday from 5:30pm-9:30pm. 1915 S. Michigan.

Fractured Lens Video Fest @ Portage Theater

Fractured Lens Video Festival is back! Portage Theater, 1450 N Milwaukee is accepting submissions for their Fractured Lens Video Festival. The are inviting filmmakers of all ranges of expertise to submit their videos, contest will be held for the audience's favorite. Please click here for more information!

Feeble Intimacy @ LVL3

Come out tonight at 6:00pm to the opening reception of Feeble Intimacy at LVL3, 1542 N Milwaukee Ave #3! Through falsified realizations, Feeble Intimacy showcases Liz Nielsen, Kate Ruggeri and Brendan Sullivan whose works touch on methods of interaction with the viewer and incorporate themes that focus on human connectivity with one another and the environment. To RSVP, please click here.

Mabel's Wayback Machine @ The Op Shop 3

Mabel Stark, world famous tiger trainer from the 1920s, is hosting a variety show based around the ideas of improbable histories and hyperbolic figures. With a handmade time machine that doubles as a players' stage, Mabel will take us through history in an effort to prevent her true love's death. Along the way, she discovers an odd cast of characters who share their stories through word, song, sound, and movement. Acts include: a puppet show, sing-song storytelling, poetry, comedy, music performances, tiger wrestling, and more. The performance starts at 6:30pm, followed immediately by a (pot luck) dinner at 8pm. This event is FREE and open to the public--just bring a dish to share. The Op Shop 3 is located at 5226 S. Harper Ave. For more info contact Kayce Bayer: (773) 827-7502, kaycebayer [at] yahoo.com.

Chicago Variety Show @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi hosts a group show of Chicago artists opening with a reception tonight from 7pm to 10pm, featuring new works by Jeremiah Ketner, Myong Kurily, Jim Pavelec, David Rettker, Shawn Roberts and Chema Skandal. DJ Sean Doe spins. Free.

Man, Nature, & the Space Between @ Betty Dare Art Gallery

Come out at 7pm to the opening reception at Betty Dare Art Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave in Ukrainian Village! Photography partners Thomas Harris and Matthew Messner, along with painter Terry Swafford, venture into abandoned buildings in order to preserve the essence of decaying structures. Man, Nature, & the Space Between's theme is focused on natures need to recycle, society's collective inclination to form structure in order to create an individualistic legacy. Join them for all this, and complimentary wine!

WHO'S YR SHAMAN? @ Johalla Projects

Come out tonight at 7pm to Johalla Projects, 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor to solve the mystical mystery of WHO's YR SHAMAN?. Curated by Melissa Marinaro, this group exhibition features seven artists who subject the history of magical practice in contemporary art and take inspiration from unorthodox belief systems. To RSVP, please click here!

LVL3 @ Merchandise Mart

Opening this evening at 5pm at Merchandise Mart (222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 1573), LVL3 curates an exhibition entitled Variations on a Theme. This opening reception is sponsored by Chicago Artist Coalition; Paul Cowan, Scott Cowan, Christopher Gatton, Michael Hunter and Vanesa Zendejas subjecting themselves to rigid constraints revolving around ideals and conventions of the artistic practice. For more information, please click here!

Doug Fogelson: Field Work @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Come out tonight at 6:00pm to the opening reception of Doug Fogelson's Field Work at Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 South Halsted Street. Field Work starts with the physicality of dirt itself since its continual existence is the culmination of thousands of years of decay and erosion. In his exhibition, Fogelson aims to expose its history through the mediums of transparency and prints. Complimentary drinks will be served, to RSVP please click here!

Bird Sanctuary @ Nomadic Studio, DePaul University Art Museum

DePaul's University Nomadic Studio is transforming itself into what it calls the "Bird Sanctuary," for a month-long exhibition of various Avian-focused works by the likes of artists such as Jay Ryan, Christopher Roberts, Susan Hall, Rob Funderburk, and Dayton Castleman. The space will also resurrect defunct loft space A/V Aerie through its music programming later on in the month. It all begins tomorrow with an opening reception event featuring a screen printing booth by Jay Ryan and music by locals Zikr. 5-8pm. DePaul University Art Museum, 2350 N Kenmore Ave, Chicago.

Hey, We're All Beginners Here! @ Roots and Culture

Come out tonight to Hey, We're All Beginners Here! Line, Form, Color, Nutrients and Affection at Roots and Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave at 6:00pm. Presented by the Network of Crowded Art, this exhibition features a historical narrative composed of a series of social events and collection of images includes drawings, an open stage and pulpit, a book making work shop, good food, video, wheat grass, and a bike ride to Shaumburg.. This exhibition features the work of Robin Hustle, Sarah Kavage, Pennie Brinson, Salem Collo-Julin, Sarah Ross, Red76, Sarah Smizz, Courtney Moran and Park McArthur. For more information, please click here.

Orion Martin & Hudson Harring Berry @ Monument 2

Come out tonight at 7:00pm to see the work of Orion Martin & Hudson Harring Berry at Monument 2, 2007 N Point St. Activating the domestic tradition of the art object, this exhibition entitled Minutes Away From Downtown pairs, both ontologically and aesthetically, the paintings of artist Orion Martin with an ambitious installation of post-war furniture from the collection of design scholar Hudson Harring Berry.

Great Cemeteries of Chicago Tour @ Graceland Cemetery

Dedicated to helping Chicagoans discover the hidden gems that surround them, Chicago Neighborhood Tours explores a different type of neighborhood with an excursion to Graceland Cemetery. The Great Cemeteries of Chicago tour includes art and architecture honoring a number of important figures that had a hand in shaping our great city, including architects Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham, retailer Marshall Field and hotelier Potter Palmer. Check-in and departure from the Chicago Cultural Center at 10am. Adults: $30; Seniors: 65+, students with valid ID and children 8-18: $25. Reservations are available online and by calling (312) 742-1190.

Cheap Art for Chicago! Benefitting AREA @ Yollocalli Arts Reach

AREA Chicago is hosting their second annual art show and auction, featuring work inspired by Chicago and made by artists living in the city. They'll have paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more, with starting bids as low as $5! Artists include: Charlie Vinz, DiDi Grim, Mary Patten, Mathias Regan and Amy Partridge, Jayne Hileman, Mary Sea, Marian Hayes, Rachel Wallis, Robin Hewlett, Annie Siegler, Laura Szumowski, Csi...lla Kosa, Frank Rico, Nicole Marroquin, Rebecca Zorach, Claudia Garcia-Rojas, Kolektif Atis Jakmel, Josephine Ferorelli, Jhonathan F. Gómez, Neil Brideau, Alex Guzman, and more! This event is from 4 to 11pm at Yollocalli Arts Reach (1401 W 18th St.) For more information, email Rachel at rachel.a.wallis@gmail.com.


PSYCHAPALOOZA @ Locked Out

Psyching out at 9:00pm tonight, The Chicago Metaphysical Circus presents: PSYCHAPALOOZA! At Locked Out, 3951 W Fullerton The Great Society of Mind Destroyers create a psychotic wall of groove rock & roll, hailing from Detroit Sisters of Your Sunshine Vapor rock groovy sights and sounds, the droney Hands of Hydra, the weighty dreams of Black Wrym Seed, garage rock of Micheal Micheal Motorcycle & DJ Psychedalex spins grooves all night. BYOB, Donations are welcome and tickets will sold at the door. For more information please click here!

LVL3 @ Art on Track

In motion today at 5:00pm, LVL3 will be showcasing the works of Jacob Goudreault, Alyssa Herlocher, Ben Medansky and Marcus Ober ON a CTA Train! Art on Tracks is a mobile art experience aboard an eight-car CTA train, which circles the Chicago loop for a day long celebration of fine arts culture. The train will begin on CTA elevated Loop Track in Adams and Wabash CTA Platform. For tickets, please click here!

Sacred Spaces @ Welles Park Tennis Courts

Come out to Welles Park Tennis Courts, 2333 W. Sunnsyside in Lincoln Square at 5:00pm to The Moving Architects' Sacred Spaces: Bringing the Racket like Venus and Serena to check out the performance of Lauren Bisio, Natalia Negron, Laura Vinci, Jess Wright and Jessie Young. For your viewing pleasure, please bring a lawn chair and sunblock and maybe an umbrella for sitting on the tennis court or leaning against the fence. For more information, please click here.

Jody Mack @ Nightingale

You are invited to PRETTY PARTY tonight at 8:00pm at Nightingale, 1084 N. Milwaukee! A Farewell Screening of Chicago-made work by Jodie Mack will engulf the viewer in her animated collage films such as YARDWORK IS HARD WORK, her musical and the premiere of several films shot this summer as part of her packing up process. Admission is $5. To RSVP, please click here!

Carrie Gundersdorf @ MCA First Friday

Carrie Gundersdorf's colored-pencil drawings are images of outer space and movement that depict abstract cosmic time. The exhibition opens during First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art on August 6.

You must be 21 to attend First Fridays. General admission is $18. You can buy tickets online or call the MCA box office at 312-397-4010.

Gundersdorf will lead a gallery talk on Tuesday, August 10, 2010, at 6 pm.

First Thursdays Gallery Walk @ Art + Vision Gallery

Please join us at 5:00pm at Art + Vision Gallery, 208 S. Wabash Ave for the Chicago Loop Alliance's Pop-Up Art Galleries First Thursdays Gallery Walk. The Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the many new art venues throughout the Loop neighborhood. This exhibition features a merging of work by Kate Friedman who employs the use of dualities to converge to create layered paintings and Angela Garbot who presents her her travel photography series entitled Travel Collections: Destinations.

Pop Up Loop Gallery Walk

This month's walk features five pop-up gallery spaces with work from more than 10 Chicago artists spanning from sculpture to photography and works on paper. Pop-Up Art Loop, an initiative of the Chicago Loop Alliance, is working to bring art to unexpected places and the association with the Chicago Artists' Coalition and their 1800+ artist members enables this program to help artists gain exposure, while enhancing the cultural experience of visitors to the Loop. Today's gallery walk will include five spaces: 23 E. Madison Ave, 29 E. Madison Ave, 208 S.
Wabash Ave, 220 S. Wabash Ave, and 240 S. State St. This event is from 5-8pm today at all of those locations. Contact Alyson Koblas (alyson@chicagoartistscoalition.org or 773-772-2385) for more information.


Drink & Draw @ Spudnik Press

Spudnik Press hosts a monthly "Drink & Draw" night at 1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 308, from 7pm to 9:30pm. They provide beer and a theme, you bring paper and some creativity and join in. This month, everyone's fingerpainting! More info here. Suggested donation $5.

"The Great Wave: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints" @ Floating World Gallery

Floating World Gallery (1925 N. Halsted St.) hosts "The Great Wave: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints" today from 1-3pm. The free seminar, designed for collectors, will provide audiences the chance view original museum quality prints up close. A reception will follow the seminar. Admission is free, but space is limited. To reserve your spot, email classes@floatingworld.com, or call (312) 587-7800.

Rectory @ Pawn Works

Come out tonight at 6pm to experience a solo exhibition from Chicago's emerging illustrators, Joe Padilla entitled Rectory. This exhibit at Pawn Works, 1050 N. Damen Ave. features the debut of the Pawn Works sticker machine and artist network program. The audience is encouraged to participate in the trading and collecting of stickers.

Gard(en)counter @ The Art Institute's Modern Wing

Metro and Smart Bar are pleased to present Summer Sounds, a music and performance series in conjunction with the Sound & Vision, a series of multi-sensory contemporary art and lively, provocative events. Gard(en)Counter offers the recent history of musical styles in Chicago, beginning with the 1980s, that helped shape and grow Metro and Smartbar into Chicago music institutions. Dive into disco, house, techno, industrial, alternative, indie rock and electro, from 1982 to present day, with DJs Kid Color, Nate Manic and Bald E, plus a visual presentation. Gard(en)Counter will take place in the Pritzker Garden and Griffin Court. 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $8 for members of the Art Institute and $10 for non-members.

Carousel Microcinema with Cauleen Smith @ threewalls

Come out tonight at 7:00pm to view Carousel Microcinema with Cauleen Smith at
threewalls, 119 n. peoria #2d. Resident artist Cauleen Smith hosts an ongoing, roving cinema in her Carousel Microcinema series which presents contemporary experimental, performance or conceptual film and video with historical works. At threewalls, Smith will screen Barbara McCullough's Shopping Bag Spirits and Freeway Fetishes: Reflections on Ritual Space, Billy Jackson's Didn't We Ramble On: The Black Marching Band (Narrated by Dizzy Gillespie) and Wuru-Natasha Ogunji's The Epic Crossings of an Ife Head. Post-screening discussion moderated by Kerry James Marshall. Free Admission! You can read more about the films and Carousel Microcinema here!

Gapers Block, Explore Chicago "Sound & Vision" Get-Together @ Art Institute of Chicago, Modern Wing

For our July Get-Together, join the Art Institute of Chicago, Explore Chicago and Gapers Block for our own version of a neighborhood block party celebrating a summer of art and music. Our fans and followers are invited to meet us (and a bunch of other art and music lovers) at the Art Institute's musically inspired exhibition Sound & Vision for a special tour at 6pm followed by drinks in the garden (cash bar). Drop by anytime--the museum is free on Thursday nights! [If you're in the mood for more music, Tortoise plays a free show in Millennium Park, next door to the Art Institute. The show starts at 6:30pm. Free, all ages.] The Art Institute Modern Wing is located at 111 S. Michigan Ave. (Modern Wing is on East side of building.) RSVP on Facebook if you like.

Montgomery Perry Smith @ Kokorokoko

Come out tonight at 5:00pm to check out Super talented local artist Montgomery Perry Smith at Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland for one night only! He will be selling his hand made designs that incorporate some of his favorite materials into wearable art. Refreshments will be served and the artist will be present. FUN!

Atomic Sketch 2-Year Anniversary @ evilOlive

Celebrating its 24th installment at evilOlive (1551 W. Division St), the Atomic Sketch Event features a special giant-sized, all-star panel and group show. As the event's single largest showing of artwork and artists in its two year history, the lineup includes 16 fan favorites: Keely Hakala, Sara Renae Jones-Lubin, Brian Hofmeister, Stephanie Combs, Ken Carrano, MR. Shapeless, John Airo, revise cmw, Joey Potts, CHema Skandl!, [ad7m], Michael Frank, Michelle Mashon, emmy star brown, SOOPAQOOT, and Jon Scordato. Tonight's free event runs from 6-10pm.

Open Studios @ SAIC

TONIGHT! At Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State, 7th Floor at 5:00pm The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and threewalls invite you to join them for a special event as artists-in-residence share their studios with the public! Artists-in-residence include Bad at Sports, Elise Goldstein, Georgia Kotretsos, Diego Leclery, Adia Millett, Jennifer Mills, Libby O'Bryan & Elissa Papendick, John Riepenhoff, Miller & Shellabarger, Cauleen Smith and Marjorie Welish. Summer Studio is part of Studio Chicago-a yearlong collaborative project that focuses on the artist's studio. For more information, click here.

Art World Chicago @ Sullivan Galleries

At Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State, 7th Floor at 5:00pm Devening Projects + Editions, Peregrine Process, Julius Caesar, Suitable Gallery, Parking Space and Club Nutz come together to celebrate Art World Chicago.They offer a unique opportunity to participate in a condensed version of the social and geographic structure of an art scene by experience of over a dozen artists' original work in an environment conducive to the discussion of our braided expectations of venue, reputation, biography and community. Exhibiting artists include Christopher Michlig, Michael Pfisterer, Joseph Grigely, Thomas Roach, Kozue Hasegawa, Mike Schuh, Matt Hanner, Hot Can and many more. Don't miss it!

Abandoned Practices Public Performance Presentation @ SAIC

At 1:00pm at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr.in room B-012, you are invited to attend presentations that are a response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. The twenty-five participants with teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery, and TA James Smith create four presentations perfomances of expert lectures, educational and entertainment that share the theme of useful knowledge entitled Abandoned Practices. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.

Abandoned Practices Public Performance Presentation @ SAIC

Today at 1:00pm, you are invited to attend presentations devised in response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. Held at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr. in Room B-12. In alternating presentational modes of expert lecture, traveling exhibition, educational and entertainment performance which share the theme of useful knowledge, the four presentations of 18 or 21 minutes in length. The twenty-five participants will include parcipitation from teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery and TA James Smith. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.

Zachary Kaplan @ Golden Age

Come out this evening at 6pm to experience the opening of Zachary Kaplan's exhibition, Popular Reactions to 9/11. What narratives constitute the popular reaction to the events of September 11 and the prevalent politics and aesthetics thereafter? He engages a discussion around these ideas through a variety of media and activities at Golden Age, 119 N Peoria #2D. For more information, check out Facebook.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest

The second annual MAAF continues today (for its final day) in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from noon to 11pm today. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.

Recent Work by David Schalliol @ The Op Shop

Recent work by photographer David Schalliol will be featured on Sunday, July 25 at the newest location of The Opportunity Shop, 5225 S. Harper Ave. The show will be open from 12:00pm-5:30pm, with a community dinner open to the public to follow at 6pm.

OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL @ Happy Dog Gallery

Starting at 1:00am latenight OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N Milwaukee Ave! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. Bring a sleeping bag because this is a sleepover! For more information, check Facebook.

Booze and Bacon @ Slow

Booze and Bacon is always a foolproof recipe for crowd-pleasing. A group of dynamic people indulging in simple pleasures, it seals the perfect night. Opening at 7pm this evening, this exhibit at Slow, 2153 W. 21st St., features the work of Brooke Barnett, Benjamin Bellas, Tola Brennan, Judith Brotman, Christopher Bungart, Ann Chen, Laura Davis, Meg Duguid, Jason Dunda, Kirk Faber, Brent Garbowski, Max Garett, Jeffrey Grauel, Matt Harrison, John Henley, Andrew Holmquist, Fred Holland, Michael Hunter, Carol Jackson, Brad Johns, Larry Lee, Kirsten Leenaars, Mican Morgan, Helen McElroy, Chris Naylon, William Newhouse, Susannah Papish, Laura Prieto-Velasco, Scott Ramon, Tim Schade, Sarah Wild, and Philip von Zweck and many more.

One-night performance by Georgia Wall @ Knock Knock Gallery

Starting at 8:00pm tonight, Where 37th intersects Wolcott is an unseen performance by Georgia Wall at Knock Knock Gallery, 3658 S Wolcott Apt 2F. The structure for the unseen performance is as follows:Two people are invited to view a performance that will remain unseen by all others. As these two people witness the event they will provide accounts of what they are seeing to the others present.

SENSE & SENSIBILITY @ Rainbo Club

Running until August 21st, SENSE & SENSIBILITY starts at 8pm at Rainbo Club, 1150 N. Damen Ave. Curated by Paulina Samborska & Michael Thibault, this exhibition addresses the the traditional subjects of landscape, portraiture and still life through new contextual means. The artist featured are Mary Amor, Mikaylah Bowman, Alana Celii, Vincent Dermody, Jon Edwards, Maxfield Hegedus, Evan Jenkins, Sandy Kim, Anne Lass, Jason Lazarus, Annie Purpura, Noel Rodo-Vankeulen, Daniel Shea, Sarah Sieradzki and Virgil Wong. Through a rational and irrational artistic language, these artists are working at creating a place beyond thought and feeling.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest

The second annual MAAF continues today in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from noon to 11pm today and Sunday. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.

Heaven Gallery's 10 Year Anniversary Party @ Heaven

Join Heaven Gallery, 1550 N.Milwaukee Ave. at 7:00pm in celebrating 10 years of community art and music. This event will be an art opening of works shown at Heaven with performances by Heaven's protest series.

SAIC's MFA in Design Thesis Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries

Showcasing design from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Architecture, Interior Architecture, Designed Objects, and Fashion departments, this graduate thesis exhibition comes to a close tonight. This is your last opportunity to check out the newest work from the freshest young local designers and talk to them about their work. The reception is from 5 to 7pm today at SAIC's Sullivan Galleries at 33 S. State St. on the 7th Floor. Click here for details and pretty pictures.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest

The second annual MAAF begins today in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from 4pm to 11pm today, and from noon to 11pm Saturday and Sunday. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.

Art Your Heart Out in Bridgeport

Looking for something to do tonight? Start at Eastern Expansion (244 W 31st Street) to see Paul Rizzuto's Carny photographs. Then make your way to the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan Street) for Corporate Psychedelia 1968-1975 where you can view silkscreen prints from the collection of Jason Pickleman. If you make it to C-PS you will also be able to check out James Jankowiak's new front window installation. Everything's going on from 6-10pm.

OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL @ The Epiphany Church

Starting at 8:30pm tonight, OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at The Epiphany Church, 201 S Ashland Ave.! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. For more information, check Facebook.

Dan Gamble's "Phenomena" Opening @ Zg Gallery

Artist Dan Gamble will open his second solo show withZg Gallery tonight. Gamble's exhibit, entitled "Phenomena" includes works describing the existence between opposing conditions, including abstraction vs. figuration, and order vs. chaos. The "Phenomena" opening reception begins at 5:30pm and last until 7:30pm at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior St.). Gamble's exhibit will run through September 4, 2010.

The Art of Touring Opening @ Johalla Projects

This is a multimedia exhibit of work by musicians, inspired by touring and life on the road. It brings together some of the talent from the book Art of Touring (square root books) and the local music community, to showcase creative endeavors when not rockin' on the stage. Whether video, pictures, sketches or written word, these musicians keep their creative edge sharp while whittling away the hours in a van, on a plane or walking about the cities they frequent. The opening is tonight from 7-11pm at Johalla Projects (1561 N Milwaukee Ave).

'Sacred Art Goes Big' Party @ Sacred Art

Lincoln Square art gallery Sacred Art is throwing a bash to celebrate its new collection. More than 100 artists are now featured in the gallery. Check out art and accessories made by Chicagoans and sold at reasonable, non-fancypants prices. Meet the artists, share wine, hear musician Erin Romano, explore the new work on display.

4619 N. Lincoln Avenue
6-9 pm
www.sacredartstore.com

Here/Not There @ MCA


From MCA: "This summer, the popular performative art exhibition Here / Not There returns, and asks how participatory actions within structured events can encourage a collective act of creation. The viewer, rather than the artist, is the focus as guests are encouraged to participate in performing and creating works." Free tonight at 7 p.m. at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave.

The Cardboard Show Opens @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Mike Pocius organized and hosts this works on carboard group exhibition. This community art project shows works made on cardboard only! The opening reception is tonight from 6-11pm. This show will be up for one day only. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located in Bridgeport at 3219 S Morgan St. Click here for more information.

Mo Show Season 2 Closer

The Mo Show's second season closes out with a bang tonight, bringing in comedians from Denver, San Francisco and Chicago's own backyard. The lineup includes Brian P. Dailey, Aaron Weaver, Sam Tallent, Nathan Lund, Abbey Jordan and Jet Eveleth. The $5 show (with free cookies) is hosted by Ms. Mo Welch and starts at 9:30 pm at The Reversible Eye Gallery, 1103 N. California.

Pussy Galore Opens @ 345 Gallery

345 Gallery opens its doors this afternoon with its first group show, dedicated to cats. All mediums, all sizes, anything goes for this one. Artists include Katie Arford, Laura Bovinet, Lianna Faletto, Allysa Hallett, Brandon Howe, Andrea Jablonski, Matthew Jorgensen, Andrew Malvenda, Charlie Megna, Charlie's mom, Eric Oij, Kelly Reaves (GB A/C editor-- shameless self promotion), Pat Rios, Madelyn Strutz, and others TBA. 345 Gallery is located in rm. 345 in the Flat Iron Arts Building in Wicker Park (1579 N. Milwaukee) and the opening is today from 5-8pm. BYOB. Meow.

YOUNGER THAN JANIS @ Noble and Superior Projects

Come out tonight at 6pm to Noble and Superior Projects, 1418 W. Superior St., 2R to an opening reception of YOUNGER THAN JANIS. This exhibition is a celebration of youth and beauty, an exaltation of inevitable failure and a blatant disregard to the fear of mortality. Janis Joplin, one of a number of iconic figures who died at or near the age of 27, is a broad metaphor for the importance of free expression of youth and its potential to have enduring relevance, long past the life of the creator. This exhibition features the work of Lucas Blair, Steve Ruiz, Vanessa Macholl, Connor None, Anna Rochinski, Michael Radziewicz, Celia Marks, Eliza Koch, Liz Rugg, Adam Cruces, Mike Morris, Kevin Clancy, Blair Waters, Norm Wilson, Ryan Barone, Marcel Alcala, Ross Meckfessel, Andre & Evan Lenox.

Visible City: Map Room @ Fill in the Blank Gallery

Come out tonight to Fill in the Blank Gallery, 5038 N. Lincoln Ave., for the opening reception of Visible City: Map Room. Running through August 7th, this exhibition features Aaron Delehanty's drawings & large-scale paintings. Delehanty uses urban imagery to create a nonexistent city, a strange and unique human settlement. 7-11pm.

The Nomadic Studio Begins @ the DePaul Art Museum

Tonight the Stockyard Institute's exhibit, Nomadic Studio opens at the DePaul University Art Museum (2350 N. Kenmore). Nomadic Studio is a four and a half month exhibit about the artist and non-traditional studio spaces. For the month of July, they are focusing on the musician and the home studio. They have built a replica of the Rumpus Room in the center of the gallery. As the event progresses, the space will be transformed every month to reflect a new theme, as well as to feature different artists and spaces. Doors open at 5pm. At 6pm is a performance by Steve Albini. At 7pm there will be live music by Bric-a-Brac, onono, and Small Awesome. Music performances will take place in the Rumpus Room, a fully-functioning 'home' recording studio. All three bands consist of musicians that have rehearsed or recorded in the Rumpus Room. For more information, click here.

Creation Station: Flat to Form @ MCA

Creation Station: Flat to Form opens today, visitors can sculpt and play with forms, materials, and ideas to make their own art at the MCA Creation Stations, 220 East Chicago Ave. During the day, visitors can feed their inspiration with the colors of the Farmer's Market, and during the evening, create art to the rhythms of jazz. The theme of the season's second creation station is "flat to form". Farmer's Market Creation Station is from 11am to 2pm, and Jazz on the Terrace Creation Stations is from 5pm to 8pm.

Club Nutz @ MCA

Running through the 11th, Club Nutz performs Here/Not There with Scott Reeder, Tyson Reeder and Elysia Borowy at the MCA, 220 East Chicago Ave. Here / Not There asks how participatory actions within structured events can encourage a collective act of creation. The viewer, rather than the artist, is the focus as guests are encouraged to participate in performing and creating works. $12 for general admission, $7 students and seniors, free for MCA members, children under 12, and members of the military; Tuesdays are free.

...Sorry I Didn't Have Time to Google You @ Julius Cæsar

Come out this 4th at 4:00pm to the opening reception of ...Sorry I Didn't Have Time to Google You at Julius Cæsar, 3311 West Carroll Ave. Running till the 11th, this exhibit features the painterly work of David Jourdan, Lisa Holzer, Kitty Kraus, Chiara Minchio and Stefan Schuster. For more information, please visit their website or call 312.725.6084.

CONTEMPLATIONS @ Julius Cæsar

Come out this 4th to Julius Cæsar, 3311 West Carroll Ave. to experience the opening reception of CONTEMPLATIONS by Gil Rocha. Starting at 4:00pm, this exhibit up until the 25th features his painting works carefully constructed with simplistic yet tantalizing visceral details. For more information, please call 312.725.6084.

THIS IS STILL LIFE @ Monument 2

Running until the 25th, THIS IS STILL LIFE opens today at 2:00pm at Monument 2, 2007 N. Point St. This exhibition curated by Ghazal Hashemi features works by Wilford Barrington, Amir H. Fallah, Ian Hawk, Bruce Ingram, Sandy Kim, Jason Lazarus, Maximilian Schubert, Dylan Walker and Harley David Young. This show presents a group of contemporary artists who have developed personal philosophies that they express through the art of still life. For more information, please call 312.208.7632.

Dorian Byrd & Blütt Opening

Artists Dorian Byrd and Booker Youngblutt, aka Blütt, celebrate the opening of their show at Star Lounge, 2521 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Free.

Gregg Evans & Jeroen Nelemans Open @ EBERSMOORE

Gregg Evans' The Things I Once Owned and Jeroen Nelemans' Pilfer Your Land open tonight at EBERSMOORE Gallery (213 N. Morgan, #3C). The reception is from 6 to 9 tonight. The show will be up through August 7. Click here for details.

JOURNEYMAKER @ THE DEPTHS

Come out tonight at 7pm to THE DEPTHS, 1539 W. Haddon, to the opening reception of JOURNEYMAKER. This exhibition features the work of Joseph Noderer, Daniel Belasco Rogers, Sara Caron, Jim Hittinger, Sam Sieger, Elyse Mack, Ben Dimock, Nick Edelberg and Ben Edelberg. Through their practices of paintings, photos, videos and zines, they embed narratives in every mark of externalized memory.

"Writing at the Movies" Workshop @ Messhall

"Writing at the Movies" is a new writing workshop led by the poet Gene Tanta.
Participants in this workshop will use as their point of departure Andre
Breton's surrealist montage technique of dropping in and out of various
cinemas looking to cutup visual elements and dialogues. However, instead of the
velvety cinemas of Paris, they will use DVDs and Google Videos (no limits on
theme or form). For the first half, they will screen a few minutes of the films
we bring in and/or of internet audio-visual artifacts while describing what we
see and hear. For the second half, they will perform and discuss what we produced
(again, no limits on theme or form). They will write in response to these moving
images and sounds, striving for a precise or even a phenomenological
(suspending our assumptions) description of what we see and hear.

"Writing at the Movies" is at Messhall (6932 N. Glenwood Ave.) tonight from 7 to 9:30. It is free & open to the general public.

Michele Fitzsimmon @ Bar Wine Cafe

Come out this afternoon to Bin Wine Cafe, (1559 North Milwaukee Ave) from 3pm to 5pm for Michele Fitzsimmon's opening reception. He will be debuting his recent prints and collages. The collages previewed on his website here, crash together the western and eastern perspectives of the feminine, one can't help but interpret theology as a mode of introspection.

Cuentos Foundation and Buena Vista Social Club Concert @ Ravinia

Want to learn about Fair Trade and Cuentos Foundation? Want to dance, eat delicious treats, hear some good music and have a drink with some lovely ladies?!? If so, come out to Ravinia, 418 Sheridan Rd. tonight! For more information, please visit the website or buy your tickets here.

CRATES AND LAPTOPS @ WELIVEINNY$LA

Come out tonight to experience the opening reception of CRATES AND LAPTOPS at WELIVEINNY$LA,1801 S. Peoria St. Curated by Jordan Rhoat and It Takes Two to Stereo, this exhibition-social presents screen-based works, installations and performance by Chris Collins, Arend deGruyter-Helfer, Louis Doulas, Daniel Everett, Bea Fremderman, Brian Khek, Jason Lazarus, Duncan Malashock, Nicholas O'Brien, Nik Pence, Tabor Robak, Micah Schippa, Brad Troemel, Sarah Weis, Evan & Andre Lenox. Join us for drinks and conversation in the gallery's garden at 7pm.

Louis Sullivan's Idea @ Chicago Cultural Center

Going on in conjunction with Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments at The Art Institute of Chicago, Louis Sullivan's Idea exhibition is on view until November 28th at Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington. Chicago artist Chris Ware and cultural historian Tim Samuelson present an installation of photographs, drawings, documents, and artifacts that will portray Sulllivan's life, writings, and architectural works in the context of his time and original creative intent. For more information and opening times, click here.

In a Plain Brown Wrapper @ Johalla Projects

Come out tonight from 7pm to 10pm to Johalla Projects, 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor to experience the opening reception of In a Plain Brown Wrapper. This mixed media exhibition explores themes of sex and how the visceral imagery of sexualized body is understood, analyzed, controlled by law and condemned even by a population that regularly indulges in its fantasies. Please be advised that this showcase contains explicit adult content that is graphic in nature. For more details, please contact: johallaprojects@gmail.com

Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art @ Roots & Culture

Come out tonight from 6pm to 9pm to Roots & Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception of Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art celebrates the centennial year of Ox-Bow, school of art and artists' residency. For the past 100 years, Ox-Bow has provided an immersive experience as an oasis for the creative community. The artists featured in this exhibition are Mike Andrews, Jonah Groeneboer, Shara Hughes, George Liebert, Anna Mayer, Aspen Mays, Carmen Price, Elizabeth Rupprecht, Melanie Schiff, Andrew Winship, and Nate Wolf.

Michael Jackson Memorial Procession

The Michael Jackson Memorial Procession, organized and led by Chicago based artist Jason Lazarus, is a commemoration to the dynamic pop legend. At 6pm, a 50 car-long caravan will proceed from his boyhood home in Gary, IN and travel throughout the city of Chicago, IL. All procession participants will be given disposable point and shoot cameras and video cameras for documentation of their journeys to contribute to the project. For more information, please contact Jason Lazurus.

GARRRBAGE WORRRLD @ Mortville

Darkest hearts desire darkest pleasures. Gertie Garbage, will once again host a night of performance art featuring the return of Bargain Hunter, Ishtar Bukkake and Heather-Marie Vernon and introducing Heather Lynn, BorderClinic, Charles Mahaffee and Natalee Decker at Mortville, 2106 S Kedzie at 9:00pm. Donuts will be provided, fluids shall be shared. The night will end with dancing, $5 donation is encouraged.

Modern Groceries Opening @ Dittmar Gallery

The exhibition "Modern Groceries" showcases the color photographs of Chicago-based artist Stephanie Dean. Evocative of seventeenth-century still life paintings, the focus of Dean's vivid images are the packaged foods of modern life. The exhibition opens tonight from 6:00 to 8:00pm and runs through August 11 at the Dittmar Gallery, housed inside Northwestern University's Norris Center, 1999 Campus Drive, Evanston, 847-491-2348. It is free and open to the public. All visitors to the exhibit can enter a raffle to win a $100 Whole Foods gift card.

April Pollard Opening @ Kokorokoko

Come out this evening at 5pm to check out April Pollard's work at Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland Ave! April's work features dismembered limbs and eye balls, prints of her fingers and hand. She incorporates illustration and printmaking, seamlessly creating landscapes from body parts.

Working It Out @ Ugly Step Sister Gallery

Come out at 6pm to the Ugly Step Sister Gallery (1044 W. Fulton Mkt.) to the opening reception of Eliot Taguiam's Working It Out. In his current series of male nudes, Taguiam delineates the separation between art and every day people.

New Icon @ LUMA

A public walk-through with the curator of the art exhibition New Icon is tonight at 6pm at LUMA, 820 N. Michigan Avenue. New Icon features Chicago-based contemporary artists working in sculpture, painting, drawing, and video. The artists include Zachary Buchner, Pamela Fraser, Carrie Gundersdorf, Dan Gunn, Diana Guerrero-Maciá, Brennan McGaffey, William J. O'Brien, Sze Lin Pang, and Kevin Wolff, exploring iconography in contemporary society, and employing a broad interpretation of the spiritual. Exhibition will be on view from June 5 through August 1. Sponsored by Chicago's Contemporary Arts Council (CAC).

Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art @ Roots & Culture

Come out tonight from 6pm to 9pm to Roots & Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception of Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art celebrates the centennial year of Ox-Bow, school of art and artists' residency. For the past 100 years, Ox-Bow has provided an immersive experience as an oasis for the creative community. The artists featured in this exhibition are Mike Andrews, Jonah Groeneboer, Shara Hughes, George Liebert, Anna Mayer, Aspen Mays, Carmen Price, Elizabeth Rupprecht, Melanie Schiff, Andrew Winship, and Nate Wolf.

Art-About in West Town

From 4pm to 10pm today, Art Adventure! Events is hosting a free Art-About throughout the West Town neighborhood. Explore 25 venues to see new artwork, hear live music, drink wine, and do even more exotic activities, like participating in a tai chi or silk screening demonstration. For a full list of activities and participating venues, click here. Start the Art-About at 4pm at the Sculpture Courtyard at 935 N Damen, where maps will be available and artwork on display.

Remembering the Future @ Hills Aesthetic Center

Join ACRE at 8:00pm tonight, for their opening reception entitled Remembering the Future at Hills Aesthetic Center, 128 N Campbell, Unit G. This group show includes a conglomeration of new photographs, drawings, sculpture, moving image and sound. For more information, consult their website.

Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments @ AIC

Running until December 12th, Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments is on view in Photography Galleries 1 and 2 and Architecture Gallery 24 at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue. This exhibition provides a rare opportunity to examine Sullivan's structures and ornamental programs across a variety of media and platforms. For more information and opening times, click here.

ANGELS @ Kunz, Vis, Gonzalez

Come out this evening to Kunz, Vis, Gonzalez , 2324 W Montana at 6:00pm to the opening reception of ANGELS. This exhibition features work by Christopher Cosnowski, Andrew Falkowski, Aukje Koks, Matthew Metzger, Lester Monzon and Craig Yuprese who reexamine established painting traditions and approaches to arrive at new conclusions about illusion, representation and ultimate abstraction.

Visions from the Burned Forest @ No Coast

Come out tonight at 5pm to the opening reception of Megha Gupta's new works on paper at No Coast, 1500 W. 17th St. Envisaged in her work are processes of obliteration, regeneration, alchemical operative chance and free association of memory. Exhibited until July 9, these poetic vehicles refer to the cycle of a forest through the medium of lithography, xerox-transfer and collage.

Urban Gateways' Interactive Arts Benefit @ Cultural Center

Support arts education for every Chicago-area child. Join Urban Gateways for an evening of cocktails, dinner, and interactive media, visual and performance art. Children are encouraged to attend. This benefit is at 6pm at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington.) Tickets are $150 per person/ $50 per child. Click here for more info.

Morlen Sinoway Guerrilla Truck Show @ Fulton Market Street Loading Docks

The Morlen Sinoway Guerrilla Truck Show is a FREE creative Chicago grassroots event sponsored by DIFFA that started in 2005 to give an opportunity to young and emerging artists, giving designers to showcase their products, art, and furniture. This year's emerging designers and Guerrilla Truck Show veterans will be celebrated from 5:30-9pm at 1052 W. Fulton Market.

Showcasing guests include Morlen Sinoway Atelier, Linda Warren Gallery, Brickermade, Uncommon, Fix Boutique, EC Gallery, Black Walnut Gallery, Montalbano Home, Anne Loucks Gallery, and Jupiter Outpost.

For more information call (312) 432-0100.

From Gaza to Beijing @ Walsh Gallery

Starting at 5:00pm, From Gaza to Beijing exhibit features the work of Gao Lei. Curated by Wu Hung, this exhibition runs until August 9th at the Walsh Gallery, 118 N.Peoria St. This series represents a rejection of both purely conceptual and purely documentary styles in favor of a redefinition and fusion of these dualist realities.

AIADO & Fashion Graduate Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries

Come out to the Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State St., 7th floor today from 6pm to 8pm. Showcasing design from the Departments of Architecture, Interior Architecture and Designed Objects (AIADO); and Fashion, this exhibition brings together work by graduate students that explores responses to gravity exemplifying fiction and advocacy through innovation and design.

Jim Waid: Paintings and Drawings @ Jean Albano Gallery

Come out tonight to the opening reception for Jim Waid's new work! From 5:30pm to 7:30pm at Jean Albano Gallery (215 W. Superior) will be exhibiting work that engages in landscape reveries and floral dreamscapes.

Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Geoff Peveto

If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in tonight at 7pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series continues today with an interview with Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring at 7pm. Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com.

Artist Books and Original Drawings @ Home Gallery

Come on out this afternoon from 12pm to 3pm to Home Gallery, 1407 E. 54th Pl for the closing brunch. This exhibition features the drawings, sketchbooks, and artist's books from Michael Brehm, Amanda Vahamaki & Michelangelo Setolo from Souvlaki Circus, Anders Nilsen from Big Questions and Doug Shaeffer.

Strange Beauty Show Gallery Event Featuring Eric Lower

Strange Beauty Show's (1118 N. Ashland Ave) June Gallery Event will feature paintings and prints by Eric Lower and DJ sets by Whoa-B. There will be music and refreshments.

Humboldt Park Art Fair

The 4th annual Humboldt Park Art Fair, organized by nonprofit arts organization Graffiti Zone, runs from noon to 9pm today in the Humboldt Park Boat House, 1400 N. Sacramento Ave. Check out art by dozens of area artists, and listen to music by local acts. Free, but donations encouraged.

Daniel Clowes @ Quimby's

Former Chicagoan and author of Ghost World and Eightball Daniel Clowes makes a rare appearance in his native city to promote his new graphic novel Wilson. 1854 W. North Ave, 7pm.

Influence @ Betty Dare Gallery

Come out tonight from 7pm to 11pm to Betty Dare Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave. off of Chicago Blue Line. This exhibition features Martin Bernstein sculptures, Aaron Straus's installation, Rory Coyne and Tristan Hummel's paintings. Influence inspires the audience to reassess their personal myth of life and examine the role of external forces through animism, worship of our mementos and shifting spectral externality. All media is invited to attend. More information can be found here.

William Chance Nicholson's Solo Exhibition

Come out tonight at 6pm to 5052 N. Troy to check out William Chance Nicholson's solo exhibition entitled TIME IS ART. The philosophy of "Time is Art" pertains to the fact that nature is intrinsically beautiful and that all endeavors should ultimately result in the beautification of the world we live in. By creating sculptures from decaying urban artifacts and 'paintings' out of live plants, Nicholson has turned trash into treasure and time into art. Free beer while supplies last! For more information, visit facebook or the website.

Transgression/ Transmutations The Book Rejiggered @ 23rd Atmosphere Group Gallery

Come out tonight from 6pm to 10pm to 23rd Atmosphere Group Gallery, 1907 South Halsted Street. This exhibition features work by Darek Piech, Robert Furman, Lucinda Chapman, Mathew Hall and Robert Henry Mutterson II, who physically alter and incorporate books into their works of art. The process of "rejiggering" is the reappropriation of landfill bound books to their original use as informational tools.

Artist-in-Residence Ramu Ramdev @ AIC

In the Alsdorf Galleries of Indian, Southeast Asian, and Himalayan Art Section of the Art Institute of Chicago, master miniature painter Ramu Ramdev from Jaipur, India will be in residence from June 6th to the 12th, offering a rare opportunity to see the artist at work. The times to view him are 11:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 3:00pm (also 5:00pm to 7:00pm on June 10th). Click here for more information about the event and here to learn all about Ramu Remdev.

Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Geoff Peveto (Rescheduled)

If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in today at 1pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series launched last week and continues today with Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring at 1pm. Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com. [Note: this online interview is rescheduled for Monday, June 14th at 7pm.]

The Encyclopedia Show @ Vittum Theatre

Winner of a 2009 Orgie Theatre Award, The Encyclopedia Show presents its season finale (and biggest show ever) tonight at The Vittum Theatre (1012 N Noble St). Showcasing visual art, comedy, music and spoken word on a wide variety of subjects related to this month's topic of "the circus", The Encyclopedia Show draws its novice and notable talent from Chicago Area and National Artists in the Slam, Academic and Youth artists' communities. The all-ages event starts at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $6 at the door.

Constructor Craft Fair

Get your DIY on in the western suburbs today at Constructor Craft Fair. Cute and useful goods abound at Fitzgerald's, 6615 W. Roosevelt Road, Berwyn. 10am-6pm. Free!

Alex Ross @ Chicago Comics

Alex Ross is promoting his DC Comics sketchbook hardcover, Rough Justice, at Chicago Comics, 3244 North Clark St. He will be signing from 3pm to 5pm. Each attendee can have up to 4 items signed and should be there early.

EXHIBITION 7.06052010 @ MVSEVM

From 6pm to 10 pm, come out tonight to MVSEVM, 1626 N. California Ave. This exhibition features the work of Chad Kouri, Rachel Niffenegger, Jes Takla, Omair Hussain, Brookhart Jonquil, Robert Andrade, Luke Willard. Scott Jarrett, Carson Fisk-Vittori and Mark Beasley. For more information visit MVSEUM.

Eric Fleischauer: POST-CURSOR @ threewalls

Come out tonight to threewalls, 119 N. Peoria #2C to see Eric Fleischauer's exhibition POST-CURSOR at 6pm. It featurse a series of videos and an artist book that reflects the scattered nature of online search queries, shortened attention spans, and random thoughts, that are symptomatic of the excessive availability of information.

Tom Parish @ Gruen Galleries

Gruen Galleries (226 West Superior Street) hosts opening for Tom Parish from 6pm to 9pm. Working with oils on canvas, Parish paints scapes from Venice.

Jerome Powers and Heidi Van Wieren @ Roy Boyd Gallery

Come to Roy Boyd Gallery (739 N. Wells) from 5pm to 7pm to see the new work of Jerome Powers and Heidi Van Wieren. Jerome Powers combines the austerity of minimalism with a distinctly humanist sensibility by using common materials like hair and pencil. Heidi Van Wieren fascinated by captured and layered light uses Elmer's Glue and ink to emphasize these qualities by building up layers. Exhibition runs through July 20th.

Toots Zynsky @ Habatat Gallery

Through July 17th, Habatat Gallery (222 West Superior Street) exhibits Toots Zynsky's new glass work. The opening reception is tonight from 5pm to 8pm, filet de verre, the process of pulling glass threads from hot glass cane, has earned Zynsky international acclaim.

Sense Objects @ Noble and Superior Projects

Come on out to Noble and Superior Projects from 6pm to 10pm tonight, right off the Chicago Blue Line at 1418 W. Superior St. Apt 2R. This exhibition features the work of Kate O'Neill, whose photography series Third Law depicts constructed performances addressing the materiality of banal materials through futile gestures. Rebecca Kressley's installation ON THE SOUTH LOCK OVER SHINE conjures sensuous experiences through careful arrangements of materials that subtly decay and collapse over time.

Camino by Peggy Robinson @ Gallery Cabaret

Come out tonight from 7pm to 10pm to Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley to view new work by Peggy Robinson. Up through July 4th, Camino presents a sketchbook diary documenting her pilgrimage to Spain's Camino de Santiago de Compostela depicted through rapid fleeting impressionistic sketches and sensitive renderings. They describe the experience as learning through observative patience.

Chicago Eastside Millennium Art Festival

Continuing on through June 6th from 10am to 5pm, the New Eastside Artworks present Chicago Eastside Millennium Art Festival off of Lake Street and Michigan Avenue. This festival offers original works from 150 juried artists working in ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, painting, drawing, photography, wood and furniture. For more information about the Eastside Millennium Art Festival or Amdur Productions Inc., please call (847) 926-4300 or email info@amdurproductions.com.

Eulalio Fabie de Silva @ Sapere Art Gallery

Come out tonight at 7pm to Sapere Art in the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 Milwaukee Avenue, 3rd Floor Studio, 341. Bay Area Figurative and Plein Air Painter Eulalio Fabie de Silva will be performing live painting. Friday night will be spontaneous works on paper modeled after masters works and Saturday will be a live model setting.

Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Jay Ryan

If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in today at 1pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series launches this week with Jay Ryan of the Bird Machine. The series continues Friday, June 4th with Strawberry Luna and Hero Design Studio (1pm) and Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring on Wednesday, June 9th (1pm). Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com.

The Pentagon Saves the World @ The Pentagon

Come out tonight to the opening of The Pentagon Saves the World, from 7pm to 11pm. Featuring works in video, photography, sculpture and film by Deborah Stratman, Jim Zimpel, Jesse Avina, Daniel Baird, Jake Myers and The Pentagon Education Collective. This exhibition examines the effectiveness and importance of heroics in contemporary American culture such as the archetypes of heroic athletes, soldiers, astronauts, cowboys and other saviors. Come early for soup and beer. The Pentagon Gallery, 961 w 19th Street.

Asi Esta La Cosa @ Marwen Gallery

Gonzalo Reyes curates Asi Esta La Cosa, featuring work from emerging artists from Mexico City and Chicago, tonight from 5pm to 9pm on the second floor of Marwen Gallery, 833 North Orleans St. The exhibition includes work by Sara Condo, Alex Herrera, Danny Gallegos, Olivia Leyva, Christian Castañeda, Ricardo Velmor, and Luis Felipe Rojas.

Sebastian Vallejo @ Lloyd Dobler Gallery

Come out tonight to Lloyd Dobler Gallery, 1545 W. Division, Second Floor at 6pm to view Sebestian Vallejo's Lux: New Work. In this exhibition, Sebestian enveils a classier version of the 1980s through fabric application, day-glo paint and copious amounts of opportunely placed glitter.

Office Romance Fundraiser & Auction @ The Library

This party/fundraiser for threewalls will feature performances by Dog & Pony Theater Co., Naked Girls Reading, Chances Dances and much more! Live and silent auction artworks by a huge list of local emerging and established artists (who are really, really good). The VIP hour is from 7:30-8:30pm with general admission after that 'till midnight. The Library is located at 190 S LaSalle. Click here for details.

Absolute Kinography and World Revolution @ Woodlawn Collaborative

Come join us tonight at the Woodlawn Collaborative, 6400 S Kimbark Ave -Porter Room, 1st Floor from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, to watch Dziga Vertov's Man With a Movie Camera. It is an experimental 1929 silent documentary drawing from the ferment of the international socialist revolutions of 1917 to 1923. A discussion will follow. Free pizza will be served. For more information, contact Greg (gregg@uchicago.edu).

Rafal Olbinski & "The Freedom of Fence" @ SAIC

The screening of The Freedom of Fence highlights the history of Polish poster design. This 40 minute documentary in SAIC's Rubloff Auditorium is followed by a presentation by one of the film's feature artists, Rafal Olbinski. Mr. Olbinski is a master Polish-American painter and poster maker. From 6pm to 8pm, $20 for general admission and $10 for students.

Spatial City @ Hyde Park Art Center

Come view the Spatial City exhibition at Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S Cornell Ave, from 3pm to 5pm. This show features works that reflect the environmentally influenced cycling and recycling of optimism and cynicism of each individual artist. There are over 22,000 pieces in this exhibition, and will be up until August 8.

Bro Noir: Exhibition and Concert

A show at 2224 N. Leavitt featuring the musical and visual works of Geffika; Connor and Zack; Micheal, Jordyn and Greg; Aaron Zarzutzki and "lots of moldy porn in a plastic bag." Starts at 8pm. Free but donations are appreciated.

Images of Memory and Decay Exhibition @ Audible Gallery

Today at 6pm on 5925 N. Ravenswood, Alice Hargrave celebrates the opening of her exhibition, "Untitled (family)". Recalling the vernacular reside of family life, her photography explores the parallels between the transience of photographs and way memory is filtered altered over time. Featuring a performance by Anton Hatwich at 7:30pm.

artEdge Benefit @ Venue One

Camp Freddy will perform to benefit the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Avenue). Camp Freddy is a supergroup with rotating members, including Dave Navarro (Jane's Addiction) and Matt Sorum (Guns 'n' Roses). The theme and suggested attire is "rocker-chic." Cocktails and contemporary adaptations of comfort food will be served. After dinner, a sexy rocker club atmosphere, complete with skulls and leopard print, will set the scene for Camp Freddy's performance. Individual tickets for the benefit start at $500 and table packages start at $10,000. Tickets for the after party can be purchased separately for $200.


(re)cycle green(er)

(re)cycle green(er) is a progressive storefront installation exemplifying the ecology and logistics of six bicycle builders. Functional art is achieved through a collage of components, once donated or disposed, then reconstructed and reassembled by local (re)cyclists. Second-hand frames become the canvas for the hyperbolic extensions of cycling green. Through the process of reduction and renewal, each bicycle is resurrected as an icon of self-expression.

6pm to 10pm
1900 S. Halsted St.
(773) 331-0211
http://www.thechainlink.org/events/recycle-greener

Mother's Day Workshop @ Lillstreet Art Center

Lillstreet instructors will teach attendees how to make glass beads for jewelry as part of their series of Mother's Day inspired workshops. No experience is required and materials are included in the cost. It is recommended for people 16 years-old and up. The workshop is from 1-6pm at Lillstreet Art Center and costs $75 for members and $80 for non-members.

Indie in the Windy City Handmade Market @ The Chelsea House

Indie in the Windy City Handcrafted Market is a place where crafters and artists can gather to sell their wares. They'll be hosting another market today at The Chelsea House, 920 W. Wilson Ave, from 10am-4pm. 20% of all sales from the Indie Market will go to help support Cornerstone Community Outreach.

Girls Night Out @ Lillstreet Art Center

Girls Night Out is part of Lillstreet Art Center's series of Mother's Day inspired workshops. This workshop is a one-night-only event that will teach women how to use a low-flame torch to make glass beads and have fun bonding and chatting. The workshop is from 6:30-9:30pm at Lillstreet Art Center (4401 North Ravenswood Avenue). $60 for members and $65 for non-members.

Dance & Technology Forum @ The Cultural Center

Join Chris Elam, Julia Rhoads, Scott Silberstein and Marlon Barrios Solano tonight for a presentation and discussion on how to explore, integrate and take advantage of current digital media tools, combining technology in dancemaking practices in provocative and unexpected ways. CAR Dance Researcher Meida Teresa McNeal will moderate the discussion. Audience questions are welcome. This forum is from 6 to 7:30pm tonight at the first floor Studio Theater at the Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Email chicagodancemakers@gmail.com to reserve your seat for the forum and post-forum networking reception at the Hard Rock Hotel's Base Bar.

Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart

This is your last chance to see the biggest annual art fairs in the city. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging -- just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up at the Merchandise Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is open from 11am to 4pm today. Tickets range from $15 to $20. Click here for details.

Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart

The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, as just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-6 today and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.

Bagels and Bloodies @ Monique Meloche

From 9am-noon, there is a private viewing of Monique Meloche Gallery's current exhibition, Karl Haendel & Walead Beshty,Sheree Hovsepian and Barbara Kasten, which will be on view through May 5. Bagels and bloody marys will be served. RSVP to info@moniquemeloche.com

Roots & Culture Gallery's 4th Annual Fundraiser Party

Featuring a full bar, Chicago style street food, funky DJ's (DJ Ryon (Healing of the Nation Sound System), Rock Hard Gym (NIGHT SCHOOL), and Ross Kelly (Chicago Workgroup, Kokorokoko) spinning the funky business, and a world class art auction featuring the generosity and talents of just about every talented young artist in this beautiful city. $10 Admission from 8pm to midnight. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.

A.R.T. Celebrates Art & Hispanic Culture @ the National Museum of Mexican Art

Chicagoans can celebrate Cinco de Mayo early with the entire family at the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 West 19th St) today from 5 to 8pm. A.R.T. is Chicago's oldest and largest educational organization dedicated to providing vibrant visual arts programs to elementary school children, teachers and parents in underserved neighborhoods and schools. This event-- designed to raise awareness and funds for the organization-- will feature art making, live music, activities for children and open museum galleries to celebrate Hispanic culture. It will highlight Mexican and Latin American artwork and will include a silent auction, dinner and drinks.

Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart

The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, and just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-7 today, 11-6 Sunday, and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.

The Bike Show @ Envision Gallery

This is an art exhibit dedicated to bicycles and the people who ride them, featuring work by Christopher Dilts, Henry Bolzon, Pauline Kochanski, Adam Clark, and Alice Dubois. Curated by Meredith Siemsen. The opening reception is tonight from 6-8pm and the show will stay up through June 12. Flourish Studios Envision Gallery is located at 3020 N Lincoln Ave.

School of the Art Institute MFA Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries

The opening reception for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Graduate Exhibition is from 8-10pm in the Sullivan Galleries at 33 S. State St, 7th floor. The show features work by more than 120 students completing their master's degrees in art and technology studies, ceramics, fiber and material studies, painting and drawing, performance, photography, print media, sculpture, sound, and visual communication design.

Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart

The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, and just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-7 today and tomorrow, 11-6 Sunday, and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.

Joel Ross @ The James Hotel

Monique Meloche hosts a toast to Joel Ross at the James Hotel (55 E. Ontario St). Joel Ross is a Chicago-based artist whose work includes the photo installation, Leaving Stories. From 6-7pm, there will be cocktails served in the lobby with the exhibition viewing. From 7-8:30pm, food will be served, compliments of David Burke's Primehouse and signature Tequila sunROSS cocktails. RSVP to info@moniquemeloche.com

Unearthed Arcana: Narrative Art for Others @ LVL 3

This show consists of thirteen living artists representing several generations of American life-- Family-men, healers, care-takers, lovers, and a space goddess, with stories told through psychedelic non-fiction and future traditions. Artists include: Roderick MacKenzie, Gunsho, Kyla Cech, Scott Alerio, Margeurite Keyes, Nemo Boko, Travis Millard, James Bruce King, J. Chris Johnson, Lisabeth Gutierrez, Peter Karpick, Goddess Irena, & Orion Dommisse. The show is tonight at LVL 3 Gallery: 1542 N Milwaukee Ave., third floor from 6-10pm (free afterparty @ Rodan: 1530 Milwaukee Ave.).

Printervention Part 2 @ The Whistler

Printervention is an exhibition of over 70 posters and prints at the Chicago Tourism Center Gallery. For the show, artists from around the country created works to raise awareness of modern social and political issues. The show also features a mobile silk screen cart for distributing work in parks and on the street, as well as workshops and demonstrations which are part of Version Festival. Tonight there will be an opening party for Part 2 of the Printervention show, with prints on display. The party/show is tonight from 7pm to 1am at The Whistler: 2421 N Milwaukee. 21+.

Little Friends of Printmaking @ Apple Store

Milwaukee silkscreen artists The Little Friends of Printmaking will be speaking upstairs at the Michigan Avenue Apple Store, 679 N. Michigan Ave., tonight at 7pm, as part of the ADC Young Guns speaking series. Free.

Build Your Own Treasure Workshop @ Intuit

Start out by exploring Intuit's exhibition, The Treasure of Ulysses Davis, where you will find inspiration to carve and chisel your very own treasure. The workshop will be led by Chicago artist and sculptor, Dan Galemb. Over the past several decades, Galemb has taught 3-D design, welding and figure sculpture and drawing at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College and Wilbur Wright College. Supplies and lunch will be provided. Space is limited, purchase your spot today! Admission is $30 for Intuit members/students and $40 non-members. Visit Intuit's website for details. Intuit is located at 756 N Milwaukee Ave.

Version Fest Opening Night Party/Concert @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

If you like art or arty music you need to go to this event. This year's Version Fest Kicks off tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere with a wild party, an art installation, and a slew of great local live music. Tonight, Telefantasy Studios will create a temporary soundstage for performance. Please come in costume as a Sci-Fi/fantasy character to be filmed, photographed, interviewed, and auditioned. Best Costume wins a surprise. Also! Browse the 15 Minute Museum (ephemera, drawings, costumes, and models exhibited by Telefantasy Studios), enjoy a Hornswaggler retrofuturist concoction at Tech Noir Bar (by Image Search LTD and Nick Bahr, with light fixtures by Kevin Rhee), gawk at a new installation of silkscreened sculptural forms and prints by super art duo Seripop, be amazed by Go.Go!, a "Fuck-n-Go" performative installation (by Adam Van Eeckhout and Zihan Loo) and freak out with SWERVE, a dance duo from outer disco space. At 8pm: World Premier of Multinauts (episode 2) (Click here for a trailer for epsiode 1.) Finally, there will be live performances by Chandeliers, Mahjongg, Brilliant Pebbles, Mr666, Extreme Animals and D J+J+J. This event is at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 S Morgan St) from 8pm to 2am tonight.

Pride on Paper

In collaboration with Mexican artists at a papermaking facility outside Oaxaca, Kiff Slemmons and the local Oaxacan artists have designed and developed a wide variety of contemporary paper jewelry using local plants, fibers, as well as natural and synthetic dyes. Check it out at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St). Ongoing until July 10, 2010. Admission is free. Visit the website for more information.

The Nicest Man Dave Thomas Benefit Concert @ The Empty Bottle

This is a benefit to help raise money to cover Dave Thomas' massive hospital bills from cancer, featuring an assortment of local art, retail, and food up for auction.It also features live performances by The Record Low, Follows, and Amalea Tshilds. Show starts at 9:30pm, admission is $12, 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave.

Art in Age of Infinite Reproducibility @ threewallsSALON

It is obvious that the internet, the database and other such technologies have profoundly altered the ways we conceive of, locate, and access knowledge in time and space. The ramifications for artistic practice are, of course, enormous. Artists and theoreticians engaging with this new media have been invited to this discussion to tackle this limitless line of inquiry. One of the many topics that will be discussed is if the internet is making us lazy and what implications this has on art. Should be fun. The discussion starts at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.

The Order of Odd-Fish Gallery Show - Special Book Club Tour

James Kennedy, author of the GB Book Club's May selection The Order of Odd-Fish, is giving a special tour of his gallery show, featuring fan art inspired by his young adult novel. Come learn about how fans are getting involved with the book and see the art they've submitted. James will also read from the novel. 7:30pm at 437 N. Wolcott. State your affiliation with the Book Club to gain free admittance (new members are always welcome). Email us at bookclub[at]gapersblock[dot]com for any questions.

Mother's Day Hand Prints @ Lillstreet

Mother's Day Hand Prints is part of Lillstreet Art Center's series of Mother's Day inspired workshops. This workshop is for adults and kids (ages 5 and up). A Lillstreet instructor will help families make clay hand prints to give as gifts or hold onto as Mother's Day keepsakes. The workshop is from 2-4pm at Lillstreet Art Center and costs $75 for members and $80 for non-members.


Global Activism Expo @ UIC Forum

Hosted by Worldview's Jerome McDonnell, Chicago Public Radio Presents... is thrilled to again present this remarkable celebration - complete with food, music and over 100 Chicago-area Global Activists, all featured guests of Worldview's Global Activism Series. On the air for seven years now, the series continues to be inspirational, and bringing everyone together for this Expo has quickly become an annual event. This event is free and takes place from noon to 6pm. Click here for all the juicy details.

The Order of Odd-Fish Dome of Doom Art Party

Join author James Kennedy for a Dome of Doom dance party, inspired by his young adult novel The Order of Odd-Fish. Come dressed as your favorite god, goddess, warrior, ninja or other fearsome creature and fight others in a divine battle. The dance party follows the opening of Kennedy's Odd-Fish gallery show, featuring fan art focused on his book. The gallery show and the dance party are presented in partnership with Collaboration. The gallery show is free from 7pm-9pm, the dance party is $20 in advance and $25 at the door for general admission. The dance party starts at 9pm and fights begin at 10pm. Held at 437 N. Wolcott. Email domeofdoom[at]collaboraction[dot]org for questions and reservations.

"An Evening of Art & Soul" @ Fuller Park

Platinum and Pink Diamonds Productions presents "An Evening of Art & Soul," tonight at Fuller Park, 331 W. 45th St., from 7pm-10pm. This showcase features work from a variety of visual arts including photographer Ashieka E. and artists Arthur Wright and Yemonja Smalls. The evening also includes live music and art performed on-site. Admission is $10; contact PPDProduction@gmail.com for more information.

BOUND Miniature Art Exhibition Opens @ 4Art Inc., Gallery

This provocative new series is based on a visual interpretation of a diary. The miniature 4"x4" size is meant to interpret the secrets diaries hold. Artists are given a theme of which they are free to create based on their own emotion, experience, etc., using any medium they choose. The opening reception is tonight from 7 to 10pm at 4Art Inc. (1029 W. 35th St. #403.)

Common Borders Opens @ 33 Collective Gallery

Common Borders, a show of work by Pedro Palacios and Joe Milosevich, opens at 33 Collective Gallery (1029 W. 35th St.) tonight. The opening reception is from 7-10pm and the show will stay up through May 7.

Tradition & Reinvention Exhibition Opening and Performance Party @ Packer Schopf Gallery

This opening night event is designed to complement the two shows upstairs (Friese Undine and Ian Weaver). It's a curated show of global street banner paintings culled from the
tradition of Cantastoria. Performers Dave Buchen and Chris Schoen will perform a "scrolly" show, which consists of pictures on a scroll, which is unwound as a singer sings the narration. Clare Dolan will present a short sung history of the form using brightly colored illustrations painted on her dress, and Spiro Dousias, a Chicago puppeteer, will perform a short sung piece with pictures as well. Meredith Miller will also perform. Golosá is Chicago's premiere Russian folk choir, founded in 1997 at the University of Chicago. They will enhance this evening and sing sacred and secular Russian folk songs a capella, and will perform at various points through the night. This event is from 5-10pm tonight at Packer Schopf Gallery: 942 W. Lake St.

In a Paperweight Opens @ Tony Wight Gallery

In a Paperweight is a group show featuring the work of Walead Beshty, Sebastiaan Bremer, Daniel Gordon, Tamar Halpern, Barbara Kasten, Sara VanDerBeek and James Welling. Also opening tonight is Allison Schulnik's Home for Hobo Too. For information about the show visit Tony Wight's website, call John Henderson at 312-492-7261 or email them at info@tonywightgallery.com. Tony Wight Gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria St. The opening reception is tonight from 5-8 and the show will stay up through May 15.

MMX Spring Group Show Opens @ Zg Gallery

A selection of really talented local artists will be showing their work at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior) starting tonight. The opening reception is from 5:30 to 7:30pm, and the show will stay up through May 22. Participating artists include Molly Briggs, Ben Butler, Amy Casey, Bill Frederick, Dan Gamble, Steve Hough, Regin Igloria, Gregory Jacobsen, Anna Jóelsdóttir, Justin Henry Miller, Mark Murphy, Martina Nehrling and Jackie Tileston. Click here to see examples of their work.

Music for Matisse @ The Art Institute

Tonight, enjoy a concert by the Fulcrum Point Music Project highlighting French music in the spirit of Matisse's stencil book project, entitled Jazz. The concert is free from 6-7pm at Fullerton Hall. For more information, visit The Art Institute calendar.

Daniel Everett @ MCA

Artist, Daniel Everett uses technology like video games and the Internet to question everyday life. His exhibit, THE END, opened April 2 at First Fridays in the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 Gallery (220 East Chicago Avenue) for new work and new artists. THE END is a looped video clip accompanied by a photograph of crumpled papers from Everett's journal which tracks the Internet search terms that have led people to his website. At 6pm, Everett will discuss his work, followed by an after party in Puck's Cafe located in museum.

Chicago Art Department Open Studios

Today from 12-4pm the Chicago Art Department opens their studio space to the public, showing their shared studio facility located at 1732 West Hubbard. In addition to studio practice, CAD will also be showing a collection of member and resident art inside of a dedicated gallery area called "Tetris". Separate from studio practice and art on the walls, drop by to learn about their upcoming programs and events, and also to meet some of our CAD artists, who will be on hand to explain their work.

Creative Chicago Expo @ Chicago Cultural Center

Now in its 7th year, this highly successful event connects artists and art organizations in all disciplines -- music, dance, theater, film, design, new media, fashion, publishing, visual art -- with the support, services and networks they need. This event is free and open to the public. There will be over 20 workshops, 100 vendors, and 40 consultants to help you out with anything you might need to know. The workshop topics range from grant writing to a public art crash course to "cultivating shamelessness." The expo is from 10am to 4pm today at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington). Visit this website for details.

School of the Art Institute Spring Art Sale @ MacLean Center Ballroom

The School of the Art Institute's Spring Art Sale gives students the opportunity to present and sell their work, and gives the public the opportunity to come check out what the up and coming artistic talents of our city have to offer. Paintings, photography, jewelry and much more can be purchased from students who will receive 85% of the profits. SAIC Campus Life and Student Association will host the event in the MacLean Ballroom, located at 112 S. Michigan Ave. on April 9 from 11am to 7pm and April 10 from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free.

How Are "We" Influencing Art? @ Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago's Leadership Advisory Committee presents "New Paradigms: How Are "We" Influencing Art?," tonight from 6:30pm-7:45pm. Held in the Rubloff Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive, this panel discussion, featuring artists Dawoud Bey, Theaster Gates and Kehinde Wiley, will focus on the impact and influence of diversity in the museum culture. This event is free; to confirm attendance, RSVP to lacevents@artic.edu by Thursday, Apr. 1. A reception follows at 8pm at the Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room (via the Columbus Drive entrance).

Chris Hales Tribute Show @ The Chicago Art Department

This event features music, words, and art for, about, by or inspired by Chris Hales: DJ Tapedek, Anti-Matter Media, and the Afters Cool Society. It is a tribute exhibition/benefit for Chris Hales, who recently passed away at the young age of 27 years. He was a devoted musician, artist, and friend. Join CAD as they celebrate his life by showing a variety of art made in his honor. Music and Poetry Performances by: Maggie Litgen, Ryan Clark, Diori, Amanda Furdge, Ryan Miller, Sharrief Muhammed, Nat Soti. This event runs from 6-10pm at the Chicago Art Department, 1837 S. Halsted St.

After Dark @ The Art Institute

Ever wonder what the museum is like at midnight? Come to After Dark for special tours of Matisse: Radical Invention; music from Dan Black (DJ set), Midnight Conspiracy, and DJ Madrid; cocktails and appetizers; and immersive performances from Collaboraction. Tickets are $20 for members and students and $25 for the public. 9pm-midnight. 111 S. Michigan Ave.

Chicago Artists' Coalition Gallery Opening

The Chicago Artists' Coalition's Coalition Gallery, 2010 W. Pierce St., opens its exhibition "Curator's Choice Part One" with a reception tonight from 5:30 to 8:30pm. The show features new work by Anthony Adcock, Jennifer Bisbing, Meredith Dytch, Julian Gordon, Diane Huff, Barbara Krol, Kathleen Letts, Lucy Mueller, Jonah Ortiz and Richard Shipps. The show runs through May 7.

Emily Wardill Screening and Q&A @ SAIC

Tonight at 6pmm, Emily Wardill will be at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago for the Chicago premiere of her feature film, Game Keepers without Game, and a discussion afterward. This event is free and open to the public. 112 S. Michigan Ave. Rm. #1307.

The Way Things Are Closing Reception @ The Hyde Park Art Center

Tonight the Hyde Park Art Center hosts a closing reception and reading to celebrate the two-part installation The Way Things Are by David Schutter and Robert Peters. The event runs from 6-8pm and is free.

Emily Wardill Screening and Q&A @ Gene Siskel

Everything I Tell You Now Is True: The Short Films of Emily Wardill
is being screened tonight at 6pm as part of the Conversations at the Edge series at Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St. Wardill will be at the screening in person for a discussion afterward. General admission is $10.

Performance Anxiety Video Program @ Gallery 400

Go for UIC's MFA Thesis Exhibition opening from 5-8pm, and stay for Performance Anxiety, a program of short video works dealing with performances of cultural identity. In navigating complicated understandings of gender, race, class, sexuality, or existence in on- and off-line spaces, individuals accept and internalize cultural rules or ideologies and "pass"; reject them, identifying such performances as a form of cultural oppression; or even scramble and combine rules and codes in personalized constructions. Performance Anxiety (run time: approximately 50 minutes) features the work of American artists Rochelle Feinstein, Kate Gilmore, James Murray, Jeroen Nelemans, Greg Stimac and Stacia Yeapanis. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria St. Visit their website for details.

Drink & Draw FOOD @ Spudnik Press

Every month, Spudnik Press, the West Town printmaking studio, holds an evening doodling session open to anyone with a sketchbook and drawing utensils. The theme of this month's Drink & Draw is food. There will be food to draw and PBR and wine to drink. Bring more to share. Drink and Draw takes place from 7:00-9:30pm at Spudnik Press, 1821 W Hubbard, Suite 308, 312-532-0304. Suggested donation is $5.

Black Violet (Act III) @ Chicago Cultural Center

Local comic book artist and designer Ezra Claytan Daniels teams up with chamber group Fifth House Ensemble for an original illustrated story/live music event: through sounds and pictures, Black Violet details the story of a cat, Violet, during the last major outbreak of the Black Plague. This is the last act in the series, previous episodes can be viewed here. 7pm, Cassidy Theatre (78 E. Washington), free.

Andrea Zittel @ MCA

Andrea Zittel is an artist most well-known for her "Living Units"-- pod-like structures that contained everything the artist needed to live in a compact space. Her work is part of the Production Site, the exhibition at the MCA (220 East Chicago Avenue) that explores the artist's studio. She is speaking at 6pm about creating work in her studio, which is in the California desert.

Version Fest Fundraising Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

In preparation for a fresh new bigger-than-ever Version Fest this year, the folks behind this amazing shindig need to find the money to pay for it all. There will be a silent auction, an art raffle, live bands, and a cash bar. Click here for details. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located in Bridgeport at 3219 S. Morgan St. and this event will take place from 7pm to 1am tonight.

I'm OK You're OK: The Art of Self Improvement Opening @ Concertina Gallery

For I'm Ok You're Ok: The Art of Self-Improvement, a group exhibition of six artists who explore appropriations of popular self-help and healing techniques. Neither entirely mocking new age and self-help trends nor blindly subscribing to their alluring promises, each artist approaches their subject in an exploratory manner. Artists include Jacob C. Hammes, Faith La Rocque & Jaimie Henthorn, Gregg Louis, Habby Osk, and Jill Pangallo. The opening reception is tonight from 7-10pm at Concertina Gallery: 2351 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Arts

It's First Friday again, which means the studios and galleries in the Flat Iron Arts Building (1579 N. Milwaukee) in Wicker Park are all set up and open to the public. Go buy some art. Click here for details.

Casual Object Garden Opening @ Roots & Culture Gallery

Casual Object Garden features new work by Carson Fisk-Vittori and Michael Hunter. Topics covered include re-arranging pre-arranged non-arrangements through formal, temporary and permanent situations. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., and the opening is from 6-9 tonight. Click here for details.

Ted Halkin's Relief Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

In his signal works of the 1950s and early 1960s, when he first emerged as one of the most important artists in Chicago, Halkin created fantastic figurative scenes painted atop topographic surfaces made of modeling paste and papier-mache, facial features and body parts poking out from the canvases in a vivid 3-D tableaux. In his most recent body of paintings, he extends the abstract elements of recent years, exploring a bright, rich, hard-hitting palette, sometimes tempered with greys and greens, featuring his virtuoso handling of multi-layered totemic and hieroglyphic forms. In many of the paintings made over the last two years, Halkin introduces papier-mache and carefully placed cotton twine as both dimensionality and image, creating yet another layer and heightening the funky energy of new works. This show of his new work, titled Relief, opens tonight at Corbett vs. Dempsey (1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.) The reception is from 5-9pm.

Daniel Everett Opening @ MCA

Artist Daniel Everett uses technology like video games and the Internet to question everyday life. His exhibit opens today at First Fridays in the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 Gallery for new work and new artists. One piece in the exhibit, THE END, is a looped video clip accompanied by a photograph of crumpled papers from Everett's journal which tracks the Internet search terms that have led people to his website.

"You, Me, Them, Everybody" Live Show @ The Hungry Brain

The "You, Me, Them, Everybody" podcast is hosting it's monthly live show. Guests include author/musician/general raconteur Brian Costello, stand up comedian Cameron Esposito and Trevor McFadden of The Hoyle Brothers performing a special solo set. Jeremy Tromburg from The Ragtones will be playing piano throughout the night. Brandon Wetherbee hosts with co-host Kevin McGuire. The Hungry Brain is located at 2319 W Belmont. Doors at 8pm, 21+, no cover.

IN>TIME @ The Cultural Center

IN>TIME is a Chicago performance series of local, national, and international artists. Developed as a collaboration between DCA Theater and the Chicago Performance Network, the event features practitioners working with ideas of time and body, crossing the performing body with text, objects, sounds, visual art, and technology. This year's showcase event is co-sponsored by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Performance Department and features performances by Justin Cabrillos, Angela Ellsworth, Every House has a Door and Jessica Hannah. This event will take place at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington) tonight from 6 to 9.

Politics of the Black Body Lecture @ Intuit

Using Ulysses Davis's series of presidential portrait busts as a point of departure, art historian Amy Mooney, Ph.D. will explore the politics of black representation in art and visual culture from the 19th to 21st centuries today at Intuit. From the recent controversy over Sheppard Fairey's depiction of President Obama to the stereotypes found in Sigmund Krausz's 1896 publication Street Types of Great American Cities, Dr. Mooney will consider the ways in which U.S. social institutions employed the black image as a means of furthering opposing political agendas of uplift and oppression. Sharing an excerpt from her forthcoming book, Portraits of Noteworthy Character, Dr. Mooney will present the historic framework that continues to inform our expectations of representation. Dr. Mooney is Associate Professor of Art History, Visual Culture, & Critical Theory at Columbia College in Chicago. This lecture starts at 11am today at Intuit (756 N Milwaukee) and is free and open to the public.

Richard Hull Solo Show Opens @ Western Exhibitions

This is renowned local artist and SAIC instructor Richard Hull's first solo show at Western Exhibitions. Gallery 1 will be devoted to paintings and in Gallery 2, Hull will show one large charcoal drawing of a concentrically repetitive amoeba-like form, two crayon drawings and two watercolors featuring imagery related to his Klein bottle inside/outside concerns. Click here for images of his work. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. The reception is from 5-8pm tonight. Click here for more information.

Sasha Su-Ling Welland @ SAIC

Sasha Su-Ling Welland is an assistant professor of Anthropology and Women's Studies at the University of Washington. A part of The School of the Art institute of Chicago's Department of Visual and Critical Studies, Welland will cover an ethnographic account of Chinese artist, Li Tianpian. Tiapian, trained in socialist realism explores themes of female representation in her work.

Begins at 4:30pm at 112 S. Michigan Ave., Room 707

Curating the Page @ threewallsSALON

There appears to be a growing return to the book amongst younger artists, writers and thinkers. This move towards the material and physical may be in reaction to the vastness and immateriality of forms of cultural production in the Second Life era. This discussion centers around definitions of the publication as art object, as curated exhibition, as micro-archive, as well as phenomenological aspects of the publication--its tactility, personable and intimate dimensions, and the unique one-to-one relationship between reader/viewer and object. Bookmakers, editors, curators and scholars have been invited to this discussion to share their experiences as we ponder the significance of recent evolutions in the book as object, curatorial challenges the artist book provokes, and the future of the medium. All the fun starts at 7pm tonight at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.

Comic Book Academia @ Challengers Comics

The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents Comic Book Academia, a discussion by Loyola doctoral candidate Cord Scott about the comic's place in the academic world. The talk happens tonight at Challengers Comics (1845 N. Western) from 7pm to 9pm. The event is free, but you need to RSVP at the Chicago Nerds Website.

Annual Real St. Patrick's Day Parade @ The Whale

The Annual Real St. Patrick's Day Parade is today! It will kickoff between 3-5pm and go 'till 4am, or come at noon to help with floats (2025 S Halsted -- enter through back alley). All -- people, costumes, floats, music, intoxicants -- are welcome. So are kids, but if you bring them you are responsible for their safety at the Whale, in the Tetanus Garden, and on the street.

Looking For: New Works @ Salvage One

The Looking For: New Works project asks a simple question: What are you looking for? Mike Nourse and Marta Sasinowska ask people what they are looking for in life, and the answers point to the power of searching and how jobs can lead to a sense of self. Answers are also used to setup scenes that are digitally shot. Images from the photo shoot are mined and ultimately a large-scale portrait is gel-medium transferred onto a found window. With the finished works and exhibition Nourse and Sasinowska present a time and place to feature individuals who are searching, and a forum to discuss the larger questions behind employment. The opening reception for this show will be from 4 to 7 tonight at Salvage One: 1840 W Hubbard.

Translating Revolution: U.S. Artists Interpret Mexican Murals

This unique exhibition examines the influence of Mexican muralists on U.S visual culture. Numerous artists gained inspiration from the Mexican mural in more ways than one. Some of the artists visited Mexico for several months, while others stayed and became Mexican citizens. The exhibit runs thru August 1, 2010 at the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 W. 19th st). Admission is free. Check out the website for more information.

Cordy Ryman @ Kavi Gupta

With accessible materials like Velcro, manufactured woods, enamels and various other found objects, Ryman constructs simple and elegant forms that conflate the aesthetics of Minimalism and Post Painterly Abstraction. Rough and casual, Ryman's sculptures treat the reductive movements that form the apex of Modern Art as pliable components employed toward a yet unfinished project. Without being overwrought or playing to the lowest common denominator, they represent a strategy for how art can leave behind the limiting principles of our last century and engage formalism for today. His solo show opens today at Kavi Gupta Gallery (835 W. Washington) and will stay up through April 24. Click here to see images of Ryman's work.

Steve Shelley @ MCA

Steve Shelley, the drummer from Sonic Youth, will be performing with White/Light as part of the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 series. White/Light is experimental music duo, Matt Clark and Jeremy Lemos who will create an interactive music installation.

3 pm, Free with suggested museum admission.

Then is Now at Carrie Secrist Gallery

Then is Now is a dual exhibition featuring works by Phyllis Bramson and Judith Geichman, opening tonight. Both Bramson and Geichman are interested in unconventional beauty and a certain kind of visual clarity in their work. Additionally, they share several common sources including including Chinoiserie, Toile de Jou, Chinese scholar rocks, Rococo, abstraction, and elements of collage. The opening reception for this show is tonight from 5 to 8 at Carrie Secrist Gallery (835 W. Washington Blvd.) and the show will stay up through April 24. Visit the gallery's website for more information.

Swap-O-Rama-Rama @ Chicago Waldorf School

The international phenomenon Swap-O-Rama-Rama is a clothing swap and series of do-it-yourself workshops in which a community explores creative reuse through the recycling of used clothing. SORR explores a new kind of studio, bringing together the art-knowledgeable and the art-curious in a spontaneous maker-centic community. Promoting the DIY ethos of creators not consumers, the SORR "studio" is manifested when hundreds of makers congregate; bringing with them clothing, materials, tools, and knowledge. The shared space has rules (such as "no mirrors") to force interaction: the catalyst for community. This crowded, noisy, joyous, creative, energetic event forces participants to share materials, space, tools, ideas, opinions and knowledge. Art emerges as a product of interaction and exploration around reuse. To get in, bring a bag of clothes and a $20 donation ($10 students/seniors) or pay what you can. This event is from 9-5pm today at Chicago Waldorf School: 1300 W Loyola. (And 1-5pm tomorrow.) There are other events as part of the SORR Chicago weekend such as an Inspiration Fashion Show and a screening of "Handmade Nation" - see Swap-IL.com for details.

Chicago Alderman Project @ Johalla Projects

50 artists from across Chicago have made portraits of 50 Chicago alderman in a project that was conceived as a vehicle to get people who don't normally think about politics to think again. Go and try to find your alderman. The opening is tonight from 7-11pm at Johalla Projects: 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Wet Paint Closing Exhibition @ Zhou B. Art Center

This is your last chance to see the wildly popular Wet Paint exhibition, a collection of new paintings by 52 MFA students hand picked from around the country. The closing reception is tonight from 7 to 10pm at the Zhou B. Art Center: 1029 W. 35th St. For more information about the show, visit this website.

AROUND @ EBERSMOORE

Around was curated by William Staples and features artists Dianna Frid, Deva Graf, Anne Simon, Brian Taylor, and Scott Wolinak. What is intended by this small exhibit is to concentrate solely on one formal quality (3-dimensionality, viewed from 360 degrees) of the discipline of sculpture so as to examine how some contemporary artists approach this essentially exclusive experience of it. The opening reception is from 6-9 tonight at EBERSMOORE gallery ( 213 N Morgan #3C) and the show will stay up through April 17. For further information, please contact the gallery: info@ebersmoore.com or call 312-772-3021.

The Gesture Guild @ threewalls

Serbian artist, Irena Knezevic lives in Chicago. Her work utilizes a variety of media to create public events that form a narrative history. Her work has been shown at the Museum of Contemporary Art, White Columns in New York and many other reputable institutions. The opening of her show, the Gesture Guild at threewalls advertises itself as a "commencement dirge, absinthe induced and sailor sung" where sailor attire is encouraged. Should be an arrrr-fully good time.

The Invisible City @ Heaven Gallery

The Invisible City--a joint show by architect/furniture designer Eve Fineman and artist Damon Locks--opens tonight at Heaven Gallery (1550 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor). Speaking to "unrealized potential, the underground, the marginalized and the spaces in-between" the Invisible City show is about dualities: noisy and quiet, questions and answers, seen and unseen. The opening reception runs from from 7pm-11pm and includes a musical performance by Spectronix and A Grape Dope.

Tiny Houses @ (C)TAS

Take a peek at the lives of inhabitants and the transgressions they commit in the privacy of their little homes in this gallery installation by Ania Greiner-- 3 Card Molly and a sound performance at 7pm by Joseph Kramer. The reception is tonight from 4:30-8:30pm at The (Con)temporary Art Space: 208 S Wabash. The installation will stay up through March 24.

Tim Kinsella @ MCA

Tim Kinsella is the front man for deep-rooted Chicago band Joan of Arc, as well as Cap'n Jazz, Owls, and Make Believe. He curated Joan of Arc: Don't Mind Control, a compilation of songs by the extended Joan of Arc family including Vacations, Cale Parks, and Ghosts and Vodka. Kinsella will be performing with White/Light as part of the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 series. White/Light is experimental music duo, Matt Clark and Jeremy Lemos who will create an interactive music installation.

3pm, free with suggested museum admission. 220 East Chicago Avenue.

Art as Event @ MCA

This is a panel discussion that looks at the "modes of art making and motivations that are leading artists to produce works that might best be described as events: situated in place, unfolding in time, and often performative or interactive in approach, these actions, interventions, and social situations challenge our notions of art." It will be moderated by art historian Irene V. Small, as well as a number of panelists, including artists and curators. Begins at 3pm. 220 East Chicago Avenue, MCA Theatre.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Get a 45-minute tutorial on how to play with mud and then dance to a live DJ and enjoy drink specials into the late night at the Hyde Park Art Center. Cocktails and Clay takes places from 8:00 pm to midnight. Donations suggested. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue, 773-324-5520.

The Strange Case of William Mumler Spirit Photographer @ U of C

Today at 2pm, Louis Kaplan (Director of the Institute of Communication and Culture and Associate Professor at University of Toronto) gives a lecture about William Mumler. As Kaplan's case study of Mumler shows, faith in the truth-telling abilities of photography has always been accompanied by skepticism about the objectivity of the photographer. Beginning in the early 1860s, Mumler became famous in Boston and New York for taking "spirit photographs" in which ghostly images of departed family members or friends appear in portraits of living subjects. All photographs are, as Roland Barthes and others have argued, ghostly images of the past. Their very ghostliness inspires narratives that are in turn essential to understanding that past. This event will take place in Swift Hall, Room 106. 1025 East 58th Street (on the Main Quadrangle of the University, directly east of Cobb Hall). Admission is free.

Vibrator Opens @ Knock Knock Gallery

Vibrator: New Work by Jacob Goudreault and Carmen Price, with special guests Billy Kang, C.J. Matherne, and Tyson Reeder opens tonight at Knock Knock Gallery. Expect to see some serious dude art. Seriously, dude. The reception is from 6-10 tonight. Knock Knock Gallery is located at 3658 S. Wolcott Apt 2F.

Strange Tales Saturday @ Challengers Comics

Chicago Comics and Challengers team up today for a celebration of Marvel's Strange Tales hardcover, featuring creators Michael Kupperman, Becky Cloonan, and Jeffrey Brown. Signings and panels take place at both stores: go here for the details. 1pm-4pm. The only catch to this two-store extravaganza is that purchase of a Strange Tales hardcover from either store the week of signing (with receipt as proof) is required to attend the signing.

I'm There: A Birthday Celebration for Chicago @ Chicago Art Department

I'm There: A Birthday Celebration for the City of Chicago is meant to give a celebratory real-time, ground level look at the current state of three pivotal neighborhoods in Chicago--Wicker Park, Wrigleyville and Pilsen. Each neighborhood will be represented visually by a photographer and musically with a DJ from each 'hood. Each photographer and DJ collaborated to take unique shots for a one night only photography exhibit that is meant to produce a truly unique and personal journey into their neighborhood and lives as influential artists in the city. America's Dog will be providing food, 404 Wine Bar will be sampling some spectacular wines, and Bleeding Heart Bakery is putting together a cake of epic proportions. There will be a hosted Old Style bar from 7-8pm with a donation-based wet bar after that. Admission is free from 7-11pm. Chicago Art Department is located at 1837 S. Halsted.

Matt Saunders Exhibition Opens @ The Renaissance Society

In drawings, paintings, short films, and photographic works, Matt Saunders recasts images, often taken from film or television, into new narratives about portraiture and spectatorship. His subject matter is a diverse cast of characters, spanning World War II and the Cold War, providing a kind of stuttering record of 20th Century lives. This is an exhibition about painting, and also about moving pictures, how they are found, loved, and lost. The opening reception is today from 4-7pm with a talk with the artist from 5-6 pm, in Cobb Hall Room 307 (directly below the gallery.) The Renaissance Society is located on the U of C campus, at 5822 S. Ellis Ave. This show will stay up through April 11.

William Eggleston @ Art Institute

William Eggleston is known for legitimatizing color photography as an art form. His first American retrospective is traveling and it opens today at the Art Institute. The exhibit will also show lesser-known works like his early black-and-white prints and video recordings.

Alumni Opens @ David Weinberg Gallery

Alumni features the new work of a handful of recent graduates from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago-- Noelle Allen, Helen Maurene Cooper, Amy Mayfield and Michael Ratulowski. There is something for everyone at this show. The opening is from 5-8 tonight and the show will stay up through April 10. David Weinberg Gallery is located at 300 W. Superior St. Suite 203.

Fever Dream Opens @ Roots & Culture Gallery

The premise of this exhibit is to address painting as an increasingly abstract notion, and to consider its inherent sculptural and object based possibilities. Work will be shown by Jacob Goudreault, Angel Otero, Max Reinhardt, Simon Slater, and Easton Miller. Also, a new installation by Jessica Labatte will be featured in the project window. The opening for this show is tonight from 6-9pm and the show will stay up through March 27. Roots & Culture Gallery is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call them at 773-235-8874 for more information or visit their website.

Soundings: The Chayah Drawings @ Experimental Sound Studio

Michele Feder-Nadoff's chayah drawings are large suspended pieces, viewed from both the front and rear. They engage the viewer like manuscript sheets or layers of tanned skin, unattached to walls and wafting in the air currents stirred up by passers by. The opening reception will run from 6-9pm and features a musical performance by Douglas Ewart at 7. Experimental Sound Studio is located at 5925 N. Ravenswood. Call them at 773-769-1069 for more information.

French Delegation and War & Peace @ Th!nkArt

Publicized as "An evening of international relations featuring a French delegation of diverse emerging leaders," speakers will discuss cultural topics, including art, food and music. The discussion coincides with Th!nkArt's War & Peace exhibit featuring artists Dave Sheehan, David Gista and Todd Narbey. Th!nkArt Salon is located at 1530 N. Paulina, #2F and you can RSVP at thinkartsalon@gmail.com.

Ken Fandell @ Donald Young Gallery

Arguably the best artist in Chicago, Ken Fandell, has a show opening today at Donald Young Gallery called Squares and Circles and Sex and Stardust. Don't miss it! Donald Young is located at 224 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 266, and the reception starts at 5pm. Call the gallery at (312) 322-3600 for more information.

Typeforce @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The opening reception for Typeforce is tonight at Bridgeport's Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St) from 7 to 10P. An annual show of Chicago's "emerging typographic all-stars", Typeforce includes work from local talents including: Jeremiah Chiu, Renata Graw, David Weik, Billy Baumann, Matthew Hoffman, Chris Eichenseer, Chad Kouri, Ryan Thurwell, Luke Williams, Tnop, Andy Luce, John Pobojewski, Darren McPherson, Lora Fosberg, Margot Harrington, Greg Calvert, Aaron Pedersen, Duncan MacKenzie, Will Miller and Nick Adam. The show runs through March 14th. RSVP via Facebook.

threewallsSALON: Cartography 2.0

This discussion, part of threewallsSALON 2010 series, is all about maps. Today, contemporary artists across the globe employ mapping and diagramming in their creative practice to incredibly diverse ends. A spate of exhibitions in Chicago and from around 2004 on ignited a flurry of interest in the map, such as the Mapping show at Mess Hall in 2004, Mapping the Self at the MCA from 2007-8 and An Atlas at Gallery 400, 2007-8. These exhibitions and the work of invited guest respondents will figure into this conversation as participants explore the political, social, personal and ontological dimensions of the map. The discussion begins tonight at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.

Celestial Navigations @ Gene Siskel Film Center

Employing the archival skills honed during the excavation of over 40 full-length albums, Celestial Navigations marks The Numero Group's first foray into the world of cinema. The 45 films collected have been transferred and color corrected from the original 16mm prints, along with fully remastered sound. Special features include a 30-minute documentary on Jarnow's creative process, as well as film playlists designed for both children and adults. The show starts at 8pm. For tickets, click here. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located at 164 N. State St.

Speakeasy Reading Series Presents: The Heart @ Worshop

This is a collaborative reading performance by a bunch of local, young, super-creative creative writers featuring art installations and snacks donated by Bleeding Heart Bakery. They are asking for a $5 donation to benefit The International Medical Alliance Relief Effort in Haiti. This event is from 7-9pm at Workshop (818 W. 18th St.).

Celestial Navigations @ Gene Siskel Film Center

Employing the archival skills honed during the excavation of over 40 full-length albums, Celestial Navigations marks The Numero Group's first foray into the world of cinema. The 45 films collected have been transferred and color corrected from the original 16mm prints, along with fully remastered sound. Special features include a 30-minute documentary on Jarnow's creative process, as well as film playlists designed for both children and adults. The show starts at 8pm. For tickets, click here. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located at 164 N. State St.

3 Solo Shows @ Packer Schopf Gallery

Three solo shows by Donald Cameron, Diem Chau, and Stephen Warde Anderson open tonight at Packer Schopf Gallery: 942 W. Lake. The reception is tonight from 5-9pm and the shows will stay up through March 27. Call the gallery (312-226-8984) for more information.

Daily Photos Show @ Antena

Antena gallery in Pilsen opens tonight for a celebration of photographs by artist Sarah Best titled "Daily Photos." Best's project involved taking photos exclusively with a cell phone camera and putting her friends and daily life on display. Inspiration was drawn by Frank O'Hara's daily work from Lunch Poems and Robert Mapplethorpe's Polaroids. Antena is located at 1765 S. Laflin St., Chicago in Pilsen (1 block east of the intersection of Ashland and 18th). The opening celebration is tonight from 6pm-10pm. Otherwise, the gallery is open by appointment only. Call (773) 257-3534 or email antenapilsen (at) gmail.com. The show runs through March 20, 2010.

Amelia Klem Osterud @ Quimby's Bookstore

Amelia Klem Osterud is reading from her new (and first) book, "The Tattooed Lady: A History" at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 West North Avenue) at 7pm.

"Tattooed ladies were a part of forgotten American history, often dismissed in print as second-rate circus freaks or as monstrous, yet sexy anomalies," she explains.

There is shockingly little documentation recounting the women (and men) who launched the cultural movement of tattooing. Publicity photos show up in general tattooing books, but the real stories behind these sideshow marvels remain a mystery, until now. The first book of its kind, The Tattooed Lady explores the duality of life on- and offstage for these gutsy women.

Grand Opening Group Show Opens Today @ The (Con)Temporary Art Space

As part of the Chicago Loop Alliance's Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Project, The (Con)Temporary Art Space celebrates their grand opening today from 4:30 to 8:30pm with a group show by its founding members. Stop by and find out how you can have a show in their Display Case Gallery or participate in the space, or help them create a collaborative map of the city's "Other Culture." The (Con)Temporary Art Space is located at 208 S. Wabash. Visit their website for more information.

E.M.P.A.C.T. Fundraiser Party @ The Wicker Well

This month E.M.P.A.C.T. is raising funds for the Chicago Delegation to The U.S. Social Forum in Detroit so folks who can't otherwise afford it can make it to this historic gathering of 15,000+ activists, artists & cultural workers. The process is bringing together Chicagoans across the city & across sectors so folks can get down with building a city that works for everyone. Live Brasilian music will be provided by Planeta Azul Samba Band, an artistically rich group of Brazilian musicians complimented by the "Passistas" Samba dancers. And Ang G, Brotha Onaci, David Marques & Scrabblor of the People's DJs' Collective will keep the dance floor hot! There will be art, vendors and drink specials too. $5 donation. 21+. This event will run from 9:45pm to 2am tonight at The Wicker Well (1637 W. North Ave.).

Heart Shapes Family Workshop @ Lillstreet Art Center

Spend Valentine's Day with family making a heart-shaped box or bowl for someone you love at the Heart Shapes Family Workshop. Attendees use terra cotta clay and personalize their creations with stamps and bright underglazes. This one-day workshop is suitable for adults and kids ages 5 and up. The workshop runs today from 2 to 4pm. Members $190 per pair (parent/child)/non-members $200 per pair (parent/child).

Strange Tales Saturday @ Challengers Comics Postponed

The Strange Tales signing with Michael Kupperman, Becky Cloonan and Jeffrey Brown has been postponed to Saturday, March 6.

Damian Abraham's X420X @ Concertina Gallery

Damian Abraham, perhaps better known as Pink Eyes, frontman of Toronto-based punk band Fucked Up, is an accomplished illustrator whose work constructs a visual language based on highly detailed and grotesque characters. X420X is Abraham's first solo exhibition, and is comprised of two serial projects and a site-specific wall drawing. His show opens tonight at Concertina Gallery (2351 N Milwaukee, Floor 2). The opening reception is from 6-8:30pm. Fucked Up will perform at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western) immediately following the opening.

Painting Panel Discussion & Gallery Openings

Today, Chicago celebrates painting. Starting with a panel discussion all about painting at 9:30am, (until 12pm at the Hyatt Regency) and continuing on with several gallery openings: JULIUS CÆSAR at 4pm, continuing to Shane Campbell Gallery at 6pm, and ending at the 119 N Peoria Building in the West Loop at Rowley Kennerk Gallery and Western Exhibitions, from 7 to 10pm. Both the panel discussion and the exhibitions feature some of the best and most well-versed painters in Chicago. Visit the individual galleries' websites (linked above) for more information.

Torn Pages @ OhNo!Doom

Come to OhNo!Doom tonight (6pm-10pm) for "Pages Torn From our Most Favorite Imaginary Books", a series of artist/illustrator mashups detailing original children's stories. 1800 N Milwaukee Ave, show runs until March 2. Want a preview? Check out our interview with curator Josh Lucas in A/C.

The Treasure of Ulysses Davis @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, is hosting an opening reception tonight for the Ulysses Davis exhibition that debuted at the High Museum in Atlanta, and has since traveled to the American Folk Art Museum in New York and the Menello Museum of Art in Florida. The title comes from the artist's explanation of why he disliked parting with his work: "They're my treasure. If I sold these, I'd be really poor."

Davis, who passed away in 1990, was a barber by trade who made wood sculptures between customers. His work includes portraits of U.S. Presidents Washington through George H.W. Bush, who was in office at the time of his death. Being a Georgia native, Jimmy Carter figures prominently in his oeuvre; Davis rendered the 39th President's image no less than five times.

Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Tonight's reception runs from 5pm to 8pm, and admission is free. For more information call (312) 243-9088 or visit Intuit

Power of Suggestion Listening Party @ Gene Siskel Film Center

Local musician Charlie Deets will be hosting a listening party for his new album The Power of Suggestion, which comes out February 14th on Paribus Records, at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Nine visual artists have also created videos to accompany Deets' work. You can see a preview of one of the videos on Jesse McLean's to get a feel of what's to come and stream The Power of Suggestion on Deets's official website. This event is free, however seating is limited. RSVP via Facebook to be added to the guest list.

Photographs by Jeff Harvey @ Strange Beauty Show

Strange Beauty Show, the funky salon at 1118 N. Ashland, hosts the opening of In Bed: Photographs by Jeff Harvey from 7pm-10pm. Jeff Harvey is an artist, graphic designer and musician who explores the personal space of peoples' bedrooms and how beds themselves function in our lives. The artwork will stay up in Strange Beauty Show until the end of April.

Cocktails and Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Think night on the town meets playing in the mud. Join Vocalo for a late night clay-making, dance-partying, gallery-hopping good time. There will be 45-minute sessions in the clay studio at Hyde Park Art Center, a DJ mixing live and drink specials from 8pm to 12am. The suggested donation for this event is $15. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave.

ANTEXPAGNA and 4x4 @ EBERSMOORE Gallery

An exhibition of trippy graphite drawings by Chicago artist Ryan Travis Christian and equally trippy geometric paintings by San Francisco artist Jonathan Runcio opens today at EBERSMOORE Gallery, which is located at 213 N Morgan, #3C. The opening reception is from 6-9pm tonight and the show will stay up through March 13. Call the gallery at 312) 772-3021 for more information, or visit their website.

Women's Caucus for Art @ CAA Conference

The Women's Caucus for Art, in conjunction with the College Art Association (CAA) conference, will host a panel discussion tonight entitled "Investigating the Need for Women's Art Galleries, Exhibitions, and Organizations: From Our Center." Panelists, including faculty from Chicago State University and DePaul University, will discuss women and leadership in the art community. This free event takes place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, West Tower, 151 E. Wacker Dr., Room Regency B, from 5:30pm-7:00pm.

UIC Open Studios @ Gallery 400

Come out and see what the future of art looks like. UIC's MFA students open up their studios and show their newest work to the public today, from 5:30 to 7pm at 400 S. Peoria St.

Sweet Tooth Bake Sale/Art Show for Chicago Art

This bake sale benefit features an art installation by James Casper Jankowiak, art display by glitter artist Sue Zola and an art raffle by 12 artists, and music by local DJs. A $20 door donation gets you complimentary wine and beer along with a complimentary pastry ticket. The money goes to several Chicago-based arts organizations. This event is from 6-10pm at 2003 S. Halsted. Click here for more information.

Blowing Kisses @ EP Theatre

Chicago-based indie film collective Rubbish launches their experimental public art project Blowing Kisses tonight at EP Theatre (1820 S. Halsted). Originally created for the 2008 Looptopia event, Blowing Kisses offers anyone who loves Chicago a chance to write or record a personal love letter to the Windy City and be featured on the Blowing Kisses website. The launch party will also feature work from local artists and designers Long Live Analog, Visual Armory, Art School Girl, Dessert for Breakfast, Mean Millies, Emmy Star Brown, Aaron Scamihorn, Joe Van Wetering, Firebelly Design and soopaqoot as well as live acoustic sets from Miles Benjamin of The Loneliest Monk, Jason Ewers & Emmy Chen of Ornery Little Darlings, Reddelicous and others. Come on out and blow your kisses from 7pm to midnight.

Colt Noble & the Megalords Launch Party @ Challengers Comics

By the power of Greyskull, local comic book artist Tim Seeley and Image bring the Masters of the Universe to comics in a one-shot parody. Watch the commercial, then come celebrate at 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R, 5-7pm. Tim Seeley will be there to sign copies.

Dancers at Work Forum: New Directions in Presenting Chicago Dance @ Cultural Center

In this panel discussion, dance artists learn about the range of spaces available for presenting new dance work in Chicago. Presenting organizations discuss their missions in featuring dance to local audiences in addition to opportunities or services they offer for developing local artists. From new community collectives to experimental spaces to established presenting venues, this panel will offer the scoop on ways to build a profile as a dance artist in Chicago. This discussion starts today at 6pm on the 5th floor of the Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Admission is free.

Valentine's Day Gift Workshop at Lillstreet Art Center: Heart of Glass

Create stunning, multi-colored glass heart beads for loved ones at Lillstreet's Valentine's Day Gift Workshop: Heart of Glass. Attendees will learn how to melt and manipulate colored glass rods into heart-shaped beads, which can be strung to craft beautiful necklaces or earrings. All skill levels welcome. The workshop runs today from 1 to 5pm. $95 for members/$100 for non-members.

Love Cover Project Art Show @ Robin Richman

Stop by local boutique Robin Richman (2108 N. Damen Avenue) today Sunday February 7th and soak up some culture before you settle into the couch for the Superbowl. The Love Cover Project art show begins today with a chocolate and Champagne reception from 2 pm to 6 pm. The works will be displayed through Valentines Day. Call (773) 278-6150 or visit their website for more information.

Susan Giles Buildings and Gestures @ Kavi Gupta

Susan Giles' work considers the relationship between memory and architecture. Her solo show of sculptures, installation, and a video, titled Buildings and Gestures, opens today at Kavi Gupta Gallery and will stay up through March 13. Kavi Gupta Gallery is located at 835 W. Washington. Visit their website for more information.

Valentine's Day Gift Workshop at Lillstreet Art Center: Heart of Glass

Create stunning, multi-colored glass heart beads for loved ones at Lillstreet's Valentine's Day Gift Workshop: Heart of Glass. Attendees will learn how to melt and manipulate colored glass rods into heart-shaped beads, which can be strung to craft beautiful necklaces or earrings. All skill levels welcome. The workshop runs today and tomorrow from 1 to 5pm $95 for members/$100 for non-members.

Critical Mass Bike Winter Art Show @ New Wave Coffee

The 13th annual Critical Mass Bike Winter Art Show kicks off today at New Wave Coffee (2557 N. Milwaukee) in Logan Square. From drawings to paintings, sculptures and clothing, this event is a way to keep the Critical Mass group active through the winter when the monthly rides are less frequent.

The Art Show runs through February 26, click here for more details.

Now You See it, Now You Don't @ Flat Iron Arts

At 6pm tonight about 40 local artists -- many of them artists-in-residents at the Flat Iron -- unveil interconnected murals throughout the building's hallways and then, at 10pm, destroy the work by painting over it. While you're there, visit the open galleries to see more of the artists' work. A $5 donation for admission includes snacks and booze. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Benefit for the Whale @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

In December an electrical fire destroyed the Whale, home of the utopian secret society/art collective, The Order of the Lamprey. All three Pilsen artists and their pets survived, but now they need to pay bills, rebuild, and above all, return to their former glory. To help, Lumpen Magazine is throwing a party, with a suggested donation of $10. Bands performing include Black Nag, Thin Man, Son of Cops (ex-Drapes), Members Only (80s glitter covers), and DJaded. This show's also a release party for the special 114th issue of Lumpen, "Looking for Answers." The magazine is free upon entry. The party will go from 9pm-2am at Co-Prosperity Sphere: 3219 S. Morgan, Bridgeport.

Art + Vision Reception @ Spex

Spex (1819 St. Johns Avenue; Highland Park) continues its Art + Vision events with this season's show's opening reception Friday, February 5th from 7 to 9:30 pm. The show will feature paintings, photography, and mixed media from various local artists (as well as some tasty cocktails and hors d'oeuvers). If you can't make it Friday, the works will be on display through Friday, March 19th. Visit their website or call (847) 266-6400 for more information.

Armita Raafat Artist Talk @ threewalls

This month, Armita Raafat has a solo show at threewalls gallery at 119 N. Peoria #2d. Raafat was born in Chicago but returned to her parents' homeland, Iran, in the 80s, during the Iran-Iraq War. This experience, as well as her cultural background, informed the concepts in her work. Raafat incorporates the architecture of muqarnas with Persian textiles, plaster, mirrors, paint, and papier mache and creates pieces that make the viewer question if the art is half-done or perhaps falling apart before their eyes.

At 6pm, Raafat will speak about her processes and influences.

Dirty Needles Craft Night @ The Hideout

Hang out with the coolest chicks (and the occasional dude) in town tonight, at the coolest bar in town, making stuff! What kind of stuff? Whatever you want! Mostly scarves, I think, but tonight Vera Videnovich will teach you how to build a drop spindle out of old cds. So bring your old CDs. Oh, and valentines. Lots of valentines will be made. This event is from
5:30pm - 8:30pm at The Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia.

Robert Bruce Tague Exhibit @ Scout

This exhibition is Scout and Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery's first joint effort, a gathering of watercolors by the important Chicago artist and architect Robert Bruce Tague. In the intimate Scout storefront, more than a dozen of Tague's watercolors, dating from the 1930s to the 1970s, will be on display. (From press release:) "Primarily landscapes, some naturally contain traces of the architectural, while others hint at the distinctly American modernist watercolor tradition of John Marin. All are quite subtle, but spectacularly complex in color and composition." This exhibition opens with a quiet wine reception at Scout (5221 N. Clark) this afternoon, starting at 2pm. Contact the gallery at (773) 275-5700 for more information, or visit their website.

Gracen Brilmyer's To Come From @ Knock Knock Gallery

Based on the artist's time spent while living in Sweden, Gracen Brilmyer's latest show, To Come From is a site-specific body of work that sifts through memories while living abroad. Working intuitively within self imposed time constraints, Brilmyer embraces the unique possibilities and foibles inherent within the printmaking process. Creating layers by printing over original drawings, paintings and other prints, the final pieces reference both reality and characters form the artist's own imagined narratives. Drawing influence from traditional comic books, the passage of time is depicted as multiple points within a single panel. Knock Knock Gallery is located at 3658 S. Wolcott #2F. The reception starts at 6pm.

The Masked Winter Ball @ Kimball Arts Center

The city is frozen. If you listen, you can hear the cold. Snow muffles the sounds of tires and brakes, howls and laughter, errands and wishes. The familiar rumble of the el pulses slightly farther away. Trees pose in heavy gowns of the softest snow, brick buildings wear glittering necklaces of icicles. Winter has dressed the city in her mysterious finery. The city whispers to you to celebrate winter! Swap your scarf for a mask, lose your boots for dancing shoes and go to the masked ball tonight. There will be music by Can Ky Ree, Baby Alright, DJ's Naomi Walker and Jocelyn Brown, and Ringmistress Cameron Esposito, as well as wild installations by several popular local artists. Masks encouraged, costumes adored, and dancing highly recommended! The party goes from 8pm - 2am. $15 - $50 sliding scale suggested donation. Space is limited so get there early! Kimball Arts is located at 1757 N. Kimball.

The Power of Selection @ Western Exhibitions

The Power of Selection, the first in a series of three shows curated by Ryan Travis Christian, has been up in gallery 1 since January 2, but the public reception for it is tonight. In gallery 2 is a video show curated by Scott Wolniak titled Suitable Video: Works from the Suitable Exhibitions Archive. Visit Western Exhibitions website for more information about the exhibition. The gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria, 2A, and the reception is from 6-9pm.

New Paintings by Jay Ryan @ Rotofugi

Veteran Chicagoland screenprint artist Jay Ryan of The Bird Machine debuts a new body of work, entitled I've Been to Europe: New Factual Paintings. DJ Carrie Weston will provide the music. The opening reception takes place from 7-10 pm in the Rotofugi gallery.

Touch with Your Eyes: Recent Works by Angel Otero Opens @ Cultural Center

Chicago painter Angel Otero's largest solo show to date opens at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington) today. The opening reception is from 6-8pm tonight and the show will be up through March 28.

Dialogue: Presented by IRUS art @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Two teams of artists, one in Tehran and another in Denver have assembled under one name: IRUS (Iran - United States). Starting with their mutual respect for art, they have established collaborative projects between their groups. During a one-year period, each group initiated a creative piece and mailed incomplete works back and forth through completion between our two cities: either directly or through friends, relatives or acquaintances who were traveling between the U.S. and Iran. This show demonstrates the fruit of that one-year period: a vibrant collection of intercultural pieces designed to celebrate cultural differences and find harmony through art. The show opens today at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 S. Morgan, Bridgeport), the reception is from 7-10pm, and it will stay up through Feb. 4. A discussion panel with five of the IRUS artists will be held on January 30, 5-7pm. For more information, visit IRUS art's website.

Art Auction Fundraiser @ Johalla Projects

Our economic mess has not spared art. A lot of exhibition spaces drowned and several, including Johalla Projects, are hanging on by a thread. So, they have organized their first Art Auction Fundraiser, taking place tonight. Proceeds from the auction will go towards improving their exhibition space and continuing to support artists in Chicago. This is an event fit for the collector on a budget. Whether you are a seasoned art investor fixing your eyes on a steal or a budding enthusiast looking for that first piece of art to kick start your collection, this auction has something for everyone. Over 50 artists have donated original work. Participating artists are Nathan Baker, Bridgette Buckley, Elijah Burgher, Philip Dembinski, Anni Holm, Aron Gent, Jon Gitelson, Chad Kouri, Daniel Shea, Montgomery Perry Smith, Myles Smutney-Hyde, and many, many others. The auction viewing is from 7-11pm, bidding closes at 10pm. Tickets to bid are $5 for one or $20 for five. There is no limit on how many times one may bid during the evening. Johalla Projects is located at 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor. Email them at johallaprojects@gmail.com for a full list of participating artists or additional auction details.

Angel Otero @ Cultural Center

Chicago art-darling Angel Otero leads a gallery talk through the exhibition of his work Touch with Your Eyes. This exhibition of 12-15 new works is Otero's largest solo show to date and promises to be stunning. Otero's talk begins at 12:15pm at the Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington.

Comic Book 201 @ Third Coast Comics

The Chicago Nerd Social Club and Third Coast Comics team up tonight (7pm) for Comic Book 201, the sequel to (you guessed it) Comics 101. Find out more about publishers, continuity, and other topics of comic book import. Third Coast Comics, 6234 N. Broadway. Sign up here.

Atomic Sketch Event @ evilOlive

Promising "new directions, a new DJ rotation and longer featured artist exhibitions", the bcd collaborative has big plans for their Atomic Sketch Event in 2010. Combining art and drink, ASE presents a panel of emerging and established Chicagoland talent as they creating art live throughout the night. Media ranges from pencil and ink drawings to paintings and collage, with most pieces selling for less than $50. January's panel consists of featured artist Jason Brammer and CHema Skandal, Penny Boedigheimer, Timothy Buebel, Blütt, Joey Potts, Revise CMW and Czr Prz. As always, drop-in artists are welcome to create and sell work, but space fills up quickly so show up early. Tonight's free event at evilOlive (1551 W. Division) features music from DJ Marc Ruvolo and drink specials from 6 to 10p.

Free Store Opens @ Gallery 400

The Free Store is a nomadic, temporary free store that irregularly visits a variety of Chicagoland neighborhoods. The Free Store, open during all gallery hours, invites you to be involved: come to the store, bring stuff you want to give away, and take stuff that you want. There is no restriction on what you can take--you don't have to trade or barter. Just take it. The Free Store will be up through March 6, and the opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria.

Red Scarf Dying at Lillstreet Art Center

Just in time for Valentine's Day, attendees learn about the history and chemistry of all-natural dyes as they blend dyes to create their own red scarf. Red Scarf Dyeing Workshop invites all skill levels. The class runs Thursday, Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $70 for members/$75 for non-members

Book Signing for The Rockabillies @ The MCA

Chicago native photographer Jennifer Greenburg will be at the MCA today to sign copies of her first monograph, The Rockabillies. The book features a series of photographs of members of Greenburg's own community in Chicago and across the country, whose worlds revolve around the 1950's rockabilly aesthetic. For more information, visit the MCA's website. The signing begins at 6pm at the MCA: 220 E. Chicago.

Local Dance Scene Discussion @ Cultural Center

This forum opens with a roundtable sampling of emerging, mid-career and established artists discussing the sustainability of dance-related careers in Chicago. How are dance artists locating and creating new opportunities to perform and broaden their audience base? What practical strategies are dance artists using to create exposure (print or email marketing, Facebook, face-to-face networking, collaborations, etc.)? Dance artists share their respective solutions for finding resources to help their creativity and their organizations develop and thrive. This discussion is from 6-7:30pm at the Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington, 1st Floor Garland Room.

The Doctoral Artist: Research and Art Practice @ threewalls gallery

Join threewalls this winter for the 2010 SALONS series, The Work of Gambling Historians: Oblique Glances at the Present, a special series curated by Ania Szremski. Held on Tuesday evenings at 7pm, SALONS feature guest respondents in round table discussion with the public about current topics in contemporary visual arts.

Today: Research-based artistic practice seems to have greater currency today than perhaps ever before. Art projects begin to feel like dissertations; loaded with multivalent cultural, political, and historical references, this type of practice often doesn't result in a traditional art object, but instead exists in performance, in conversations, in recreations of office spaces or archives within a gallery. Contemporary strains of this type of practice have had high visibility in Chicago recently, with exhibitions by Liam Gillick and Jeremy Diller at the MCA in the fall, and the knowledge-questioning investigation by Aspen Mays about to open at the Hyde Park Art Center; these examples will be touchstones for the conversation. With guest speakers: Patrick Bobilin, Aspen Mays, Allison Peters Quinn, and Frances Whitehead.

We Are The World Group Show Opens @ Roots & Culture

We are the World showcases work by 12 emerging international artists. The exhibition features work in a wide range of media including illustration, new media, painting, photography, sculpture, textile, and video. Prompted by the 1985 music project "We Are the World," co-written by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson, and recorded by nearly 50 of the biggest names in music in an effort to raise money and awareness of the famine crisis in Africa, this current show asks artists born in the 1980s to reimagine on the original project. Conceived as both a critique of the ineffectiveness of the original
program and an embrace of its cultural significance, the show reflects on the
ways in which we can make and think art in the midst of crisis. This show will be up through Feb. 20 but check out the opening tonight from 6 to 9 at Roots and Culture Gallery: 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.

We Ride No Brakes Too @ Untitled

Fresh new artists Charlie Megna, Jake Gillispie, and Matthew Jorgensen show their new work at Untitled (1941 W. North Ave.) tonight. The opening is from 7-10pm. Dave Mata (A.K.A. White Devil) will provide musical refreshments.

Dance Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Publicist (Seb from Trans Am), Waterbabies, DJ Ryan Stinson, Gatekeeper, and Joe Kisser provide musical refreshments at this dance party. A Dutch art exhibition by The Tupajumi Foundation will be on display. The exhibition opens at 7pm and the party starts at 8. Admission is $8. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located at 3219 S. Morgan.

Jeff Marlin Painting Show Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery

Spanning a period of about ten years, this survey includes various series in the oeuvre of Chicago painter Jeff Marlin (1969-2009), which, in the artist's words, "...is always a dialogue between hand and machine systems." The selection of works extends back to early paintings exploring dot matrix disintegrations of images (UFOs, mushroom clouds, fascist architecture), all using scanned and manipulated photographic sources, Xeroxes and stencils in the development of the paintings. His more recent work has evolved into minimal abstraction. The show will be up through Feb. 6, but check out the opening tonight from 5-9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.

E.M.P.A.C.T. Party @ The Music Lounge

E.M.P.A.C.T.- Everyone's Music Politics Art and Community Throwdown, is a monthly series that showcases live band's and DJ's while fundraising for deserving not-for-profits and community organizations. The goal of E.M.P.A.C.T. is to spread culture, diversity, and knowledge of community issues while providing a common ground for activists, educators, artists, and community organizers to celebrate the commonality of our struggles. Tonight's live music includes EveryPeople Jazz Workshop, Rebel Rhythm Collective, and DJ David Marques. The show starts at 9pm and ends at 2am at The Music Lounge: 3017 W. Armitage. $5 donation, benefiting the Rumble Arts Center.

What Is a Masterpiece?

The Alliance Française (54 W. Chicago) presents world-renown art expert Isabelle Leroy-Jay Lemaistre in this art lecture on how the definition of "masterpiece" has changed over time in painting, drawing, sculpture, and decorative arts. The talk gets underway at 6:30pm and costs $5 for members of the Alliance, $10 for non-members. Register online or call (312) 337-1070 for more information.

Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts @ Victory Gardens Theatre

The 2nd annual Winter Block Party for Chicago’s Hip-Hop Arts gets going today with a large cast of performers at the Victory Gardens Theatre in Lincoln Park. Hosted by WBEZ, the event will feature a visual art and graffiti gallery exhibition with works-for-sale by some of Chicago's most notable and up and coming contemporary artists, a B-Boy/B-Girl battle, a special installment of "Word: Across the Generations," an open mic showcase, music all afternoon by DJ Itch13, DJ Issues and DJ Seanile, and more. Details here. The day events (11am-4pm) are free, while the evening events, starting at 7:30pm, costs $10-$15. Tickets available online. The theatre is located at 2433 N. Lincoln Ave.

Proximity Release Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Tonight Proximity Magazine celebrates the release of their sixth issue. There will be an evening of performances by Proximity friends and family as well as an exhibition of works by artists featured in past magazines. There will be performances by Implodes, Aleks and the Drummer, Maxwell Citron and Members Only. With DJ J+J+J. For this issue they invited friends and friends of friends to contribute to their annual geographically and territorially-based examinations of some other art worlds. This not so random survey of under-represented art scenes, movers and shakers, artist run initiatives, groups, spaces and theoretical constructs helps us imagine and remake the worlds we want to live and work in. It features reports from not only Chicago but around the world. For $10 you get admitted into the party as well as a copy of the new issue. The party is from 9pm-1am at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St.)

Greg Kot @ Revolution Books

Music critic Greg Kot talks about and signs copies of his book Ripped today at Revolution Books, 1103 N. Ashland, at 2pm.

3rd Annual Winter Block Party for Chicago Hip-Hop @ Chicago Urban Art Society

Kicking off 2011, Chicago Public Media (WBEZ 91.5 FM) continues its Off-Air Series with the 3rd Annual Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts at Chicago Urban Art Society today from 11am to 10pm. Created to celebrate Chicago's hip-hop arts, this annual party begins at 11am with free events such as: a visual art and graffiti gallery exhibition; marketplace; hip-hop barbershop; the Vocalo Sampling Showcase with Vocalo host Jesse Menendez leading a presentation on the art of sampling; lots of special guests; music all afternoon by some of Chicago's favorite DJs including Itch 13, Sweatpants Money, DJ Susannah Kim; and more! Ticketed programs this year include a screening of Copyright Criminals, which examines the creative and commercial value of musical sampling, tracing the rise of hip-hop from the urban streets of New York to its current status as a multibillion-dollar industry, and the popular "First Come, First Served!" one-on-one B-Boy/B-Girl battle hosted by Chicago's own Legendary Brickheadz. Highlighting the event will be a ticketed evening program titled Original Style: Exploring the History of Chicago House hosted by Kevin Coval, which will include archival film of the scenes and sounds of the 1980s and 90s, music selections courtesy of SilverRoom founder DJ Eric Williams, plus the founders of Chicago House: DJ Frankie Knuckles, known as 'The Honorary Godfather of House Music'; Robert Williams, owner of the Warehouse and Music Box; Frederick Dunson, original warehouse manager; Reggie Corner, House music promoter; Lewis Lazu, dancer and promoter; and many more. The evening will wrap up with an After Party with legendary house DJ Ron Trent and seminal Hip-Hop DJ Jesse De La Pena! Admission during the day is free with optional ticketed programming for $5 general admission or $3 for WBEZ members. Tickets for the evening program are $15 general admission, $12 for WBEZ members, and $10 for students with a valid ID. Tickets are available at www.wbez.org/events. The Chicago Urban Art Society is located at 2229 S. Halsted Street.

Armita Raafat Solo Show Opens @ threewalls

Raafat's installation subtly transforms the 'pristine' gallery, drawing on the wall with mirror, paint, plaster, cardboard, papier-mâché and cloth to sculpt a crumbling architecture from Middle Eastern structures, patterns and motifs. Referencing Islamic and Persian architecture, Raafat applies ornament in a state of ruin, often to the perimeter of the site, with patterns spreading, dripping and crumbling from corner to floor. This exhibition opens tonight at threewalls(119 N. Peoria #2D)-- the reception is from 6-9pm.

Art Shay's True Colors @ Thomas Masters

An exhibit of color photographs by Art Shay, who is known for his black and white photography, opens tonight at Thomas Masters, 245 W. North Ave. The opening reception will be held from 6-9pm. For more information, call (312) 440-2322.

The Sports Show Film & Video Screening @ Gallery 400

Gallery 400 is "foam-finger-waving" proud to present a double-header of films and videos that seek to address athletics in all of its art-side incarnations. In the absence of $6 hot dogs and $7 Budweisers, they've got a stadium's worth of bruisers ready to bring the (critical) pain--from ethnographic melon tossing to video art ice skating, close-up baseball to performative competitive swimming, ice hockey ankle-slashing to video game basketball to Papua New Guinean cricket warfare--they've got more than enough sports identification to fill up your art-team jersey closet forever and ever. Nine videos and films by artists ranging from Miranda July to Stan Brakhage will be screened tonight between 7 and 9:30pm at Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria.

The Rainbow Connection @ Quimby's

Jessica Max Stein's tells the story of the "queer puppeteer" who was behind characters like Scooter and Janice, and became a fixture on Sesame Street with her zine The Rainbow Connection: Richard Hunt, Gay Muppeteer today at Quimby's. 1854 W North Ave, 3pm. Free! For more information call (773) 342-0910.

Gregory Jacobsen's Prostrate @ Zg Gallery

Gregory Jacobsen's fifth solo show opens tonight at Zg Gallery. Titled Prostrate: New Paintings & Drawings, the show features new works from his botanical heaps series-- still life bouquets composed of such disparate elements as meat and muscle tissue, wigs, secreting organs, petit-fours, flora, fauna and various food stuffs, set in romantic landscapes, tenderly gathered into bundles and tied with ribbons. The show opens tonight at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior.) The public reception will go from 5:30 to 7:30pm. For more information, visit Zg's website or call them at (312) 654-9900.

Vespine Gallery Farewell Party

Vespine Gallery, 1907 S. Halsted, will be closing at the end of January, and is having a farewell party tonight from 7pm to 10pm. The gallery's final exhibition, Retrospect, runs from Jan. 2 to Jan. 29.

Jason Lahr, Tim Vermeulen, & Gene Hamilton @ Packer Schopf Gallery

Today at Packer Schopf Gallery three shows of interesting-looking work by three artists open. On display are paintings and drawings of and about the crisis of manhood, pop culture, Moby Dick, the meaning of life, and ventriliquist dummies, among other things. Jason Lahr shows DEATHMETALHIPPIEKILLER, Tim Vermeulen shows Moby Dick, and Gene Hamilton shows Vent Figure Fun! (Ventriloquist Dummy Portraits). The opening is from 5-8 tonight at Packer Schopf: 942 W. Lake. Visit their website for more information.

iPhone Therefore I Art @ CAD

iPhone Therefore I Art is an exhibition of new art (of various forms) made with iPhones by 25 artists from around the world. The show, curated by Mike Nourse of the Chicago Art Department, is the culmination of an iPhone art class he led at CAD. Go to the opening at CAD tonight to see how yet another use for the ubiquitous iPhone has been discovered. CAD is located at 1837 S. Halsted, and the opening is from 6-10pm.

Dirty Needles @ Hideout

Join crafters and the craft-curious at this monthly meetup. Bring a project to work on, or just a willingness to learn: this month, local artist Vera Videnovich will demonstrate how to spin yarn. More information is available on Facebook.

The Power of Selection & Suitable Video Open @ Western Exhibitions

The Power of Selection is the first in a series of three shows curated by Ryan Travis Christian in gallery 1 at Western Exhibitions. The idea behind the exhibition is to increase the circulation of contemporary artwork seen in Chicago by showing works by out of town and/or up-and-coming artists. In this first installment, Christian selected work that takes figuration into strange and bewildering stylizations through the use of drawing, sculpture and video. In Gallery 2 Scott Wolniak has curated an exhibition (Suitable Video: Works from the Suitable Exhibitions Archive) of video works loosely based around artists who showed at Suitable Gallery, a DIY exhibition space located in Humboldt Park between 1999 and 2004. The show will be up through February 6 with a public reception on January 30. Visit Western Exhibitions website for more information. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, 2A.

15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program @ Malcolm X College

Malcolm X College is hosting the 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.

New Year's Eve Ball @ Reversible Eye Gallery

The amazing Reversible Eye Gallery is hosting what will surely be a wild New Year's Eve party tonight. Aerial acrobatics from Aloft will be performed throughout the evening, and breakfast and mimosas will be served at 5am New Years Day. Bands performing includeSpires that in the Sunset Rise,Loto Ball Show,ReDeMer,Loto Ball Stupid Dans,The Funeral and the Twilight, and Grace Kulp. Admission is $25 in advance and $30 at the door--not bad if you consider all the live entertainment and the free food and booze 'till dawn. The party starts at 9:30pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at (773) 862-1232 or email info@reversibleeye.com for more information.

NYE Party @ Kaplan's Liquors

Each year Kaplan's Liquors hosts a New Years Eve party, and this year is no different, but they're expecting quite a crowd. There will be free Korean and Polish Food and a Youtube Karaoke performance with VJ Eddie Gymkata of the 80's performance art band, Members Only, among other things. Korean ladies, mutants, and sexy co-eds will be mingling with intellectuals, art fags, old men, and union guys. Should be pretty fun. Should be free, too, except for the booze. The party will be from 8:30pm to 2am. It's a bar, so only go if you're 21+. Kaplan's Liquors is located in Bridgeport at 960 W. 31st. St. Call them at 773-890-0588 for information.

15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program @ Malcolm X College

Malcolm X College and the Bolozi Wazee (Council of Elders) - Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children) are celebrating 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College, starting today and continuing through Kwanzaa every day starting at 10am, until January 1. This is the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at (312) 850-7472, or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.

Hideout Holiday Sale

The Hideout Holiday Sale is your last chance to buy handmade crafts at the Hideout before Christmas rolls around. Get in there from 6pm-9pm tonight and fill your sacks with goods from the Soup n' Bread Cookbook, Bloodshot Records, Kiku Handmade and lots of others! The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago. 773-227-4433

Indie Arts Market @ Schubas

Sponsored by Paper Boy, this holiday craft market features the latest creations from Chicago illustrators, artists and crafters. Jewelry, screen prints, letterpress, housewares and more for sale. At Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, from 11am to 5pm today. Admission is free. For more information visit the Indie Arts Market website.

Megan Baker @ AJ Kane Gallery

Opens tonight, 5pm-12am: Photoshop artist Megan Baker's dystopian photography of small decaying towns in the United States. 119 N. Peoria St. Suite 2B. Free. More information here.

Trendbeheer Meets Proximity Exhibition Opening @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

For the past two years Public Media Institute and Proximity magazine have been collaborating with Trendbeheer.com, a Rotterdam-based Arts initiative, to bring artists and projects to each others' cities. This exhibition, mounted by Thendbeheer, coincides with issue 6 of Proximity magazine, themed (An)Other Worlds. Issue 6 includes an expansive Rotterdam Section and artists interviewed in the issue will be present in Chicago for the Trendbeheer Meets Proximity exhibition. The opening reception is from 7-9pm, performances begin at 9 and go on until 1am. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located at 3219 S. Morgan St.


Moral Geometry @ Antena

Using the components of over 1,600 teabags donated by friends, Georgina Valverde creates a body of work exploring the potential for small actions to manifest form, beauty and meaning. This exhibit is free and located at Antena, 1765 S. Laflin Street. For more information call 773-344-1940 or visit Georgina Valverde's website.

Dystopias vs. Enchanted Forests

Quimby's Bookstore is hosting an off-site event called the Cabinet of Curiosities at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Avenue) at 6pm in Puck's Cafe. The Cabinet of Curiosities series is a curated "variety show." Artists and performers featured in this month's theme, Dystopias vs. Enchanted Forests, include Ed Marszewski (Lumpen, Proximity, Co-Prosperity Sphere), Kate Sheehy (puppeteer), Joe Mason (pop culture specialist), Oscar Arriola (street art archiver and documentarian), and Jon Resh (Viper Press, Amped).

Amanda Ross-Ho @ SAIC

Formerly of Chicago, now of Los Angeles artist Amanda Ross-Ho continues to explore the concept of workspace as art, making her talk introducing the Studio Chicago project particularly appropriate. Sullivan Galleries, SAIC, 33 S State St, 7th Fl. For more information, call (312) 629-6635 or go here. Free!

101 Lecture Show: Jay Ryan & Paul Hornschemeier

Homeroom and You, Me,Them, Everybody co-host the 101 Lecture Show at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. This month's guests are screenprinter Jay Ryan and graphic novelist Paul Hornschemeier. They'll each deliver a short lecture and be interviewed, and will sign copies of their latest books. $5 suggested donation; 21+.

Ronny's Art & Music Jam

Live music and art. And snacks. Bands include Michael Michael Motorcycle, Amen & The Hell Yeahs, Pretty Boy Thorson & the Falling Angels, and Altar Eagle. There are too many artists participating to list. Sorry. Art viewing time is from 6-8pm with DJ Stylings of Geppettoboner.org (Mr. Ian Floetl with Mr. Vito Nusret.) Bands start at 8pm. Ronny's is located at 2101 N. California. 21+.

One Night Only Magazine Release Party @ Reversible Eye Gallery

The One Night Only Magazine is a new quarterly journal where each issue is structured around a theme, dictating the design and content, so that each full issue may stand alone as a complete multimedia art object of its own. For $10 at the door you will get a copy of the CD magazine, free drinks, and performances by One Night Only contributors in between the following bands: Glittermouse, Ragged Claws, and Jordan E. Ramsier. Pre-orders of the magazine are available through One Night Only's website for $7.50. A pre-order gets you free admission to the party-- which, by the way, starts at 8pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at 773-862-1232 for more information.

Angel Otero Solo Show Opens @ Kavi Gupta

Chicago's own painting darling, Angel Otero, has a solo show opening today. The reception is from 4-7pm at Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 W. Washington. The show will be up through January 30 (by then, he'll have a solo show up at the Cultural Center.)

Debutante Ball @ threewalls

The Debutante Ball is threewalls' annual winter fundraiser. This year they're doing a formal, southern-style thing, complete with a hat contest, mint juleps and red velvet cake. Tickets are $30.00 each with annual holiday glass and unlimited refreshments. Couples can purchase a special couples ticket for $50.00. The ball starts at 7:30pm at threewalls' new location: 119 N Peoria #2C. Click here for tickets and information.

The Gregory Battcock Archive Opens @ Rowley Kennerk Gallery

Chicago artist and SAIC professor Joseph Grigely presents a collection of murdered Warhol-era artist and critic, Gregory Battcock's ephemera. The show opens tonight at Rowley Kennerk Gallery (119 N. Peoria #3C) from 6-8pm, and will remain up through January 30. Contact the gallery at 773-983-0077 or info@rowleykennerk.com for more information.

After Dark @ The Art Institute

Party in the AIC's Modern Wing tonight and go on tours of the newly expanded architecture and design galleries. DJ sets by Dark Wave Disco and Midnight Conspiracy, a live performance by Gemini Club, and immersive performances from Collaboraction. Hosted by Moneypenny with a GlitterGuts photo booth. Cash bar & free appetizers. Admission is $25, $20 if you're an AIC member or a student. For advance tickets, visit museumtix.com or call 877-307-4AIC. The party is from 6-10pm.

The Book as its Own Addendum

At Marwen's Alumni Gallery from 5pm-7pm, 833 N. Orleans, is the opening night of The Book as its Own Addendum, featuring original works of art from local, national, and international artists alongside the books and literature that inspired them. Some contributing artists will be Mitsuko Brooks, Jen Cooney, Alfredo Garcia, Zach Huelsing, Regin Igloria, Edith Kollath, Matt Kuhlman, Zoe McCloskey, Shawn Sheehy, and Jeremy Tinder. While you're there, check out the student art as well.

AREA Chicago's Wants and Needs Auction 2009 @ UE Hall

AREA Chicago's third annual auction is tonight, with ALL proceeds benefiting the Spring 2010 issue of AREA. Items being auctioned range from customized tours of the city to hand-drawn portraits of the winners to catered retreats in the countryside. 7-12pm. Auction at 9:30pm. DJs before & after. UE Hall: 37 S. Ashland. $10 donation at the door, $20 donation for admission and a tote bag. To RVSP or prepay email areachicagointern@gmail.com.

Video Art 101 @ Chicago Art Department

With Video Art 101, the Chicago Art Department uses the frame of an art exhibition to teach basic video art concepts. What is unique about the medium of video? How is it different from other media? What are some of the possibilities offered by video? What are some of the basic techniques? What are some of the tools and how are they used? These are some of the questions that this exhibit will try to help answer. It's an intro video art class masquerading as an art exhibition. 6-10pm at Chicago Art Department:1837 S. Halsted.

Scott Stulen: Kool-Aid Drunk @ ebersmoore

Scott Stulen's paintings and sculptures investigate how shared cultural memory can slip into fiction or fabrication, creating a partial truth recalled as authentic memory or experience. They're often pretty damn funny, too. His solo show opens tonight at ebersmoore gallery: 213 N. Morgan. 6-9pm. The show will be up through January 2.

Picturing the Studio @ SAIC

This exhibition explores the richly complex politically and psychologically charged notion of the artist's studio today. With works by over 30 artists spanning the past two decades, this exhibition also includes several specially designed installations undertaken by artists on site. Among the artists included are Susanne Doremus, Julia Fish, Rodney Graham, Karl Haendel, Adelheid Mers, Bruce Nauman, Amanda Ross-Ho, and James Welling.

The opening is from 4:30-7:30pm, Sullivan Galleries, SAIC: 33 S. State, 7th Floor.

Forever Vegetal @ Roots & Culture

Forever Vegetal is a collection of new work by Chicago artists Brian McNearney and Edra Soto. The opening is from 6-9pm tonight and the show will be up through January 16. Roots & Culture Contemporary Art Center is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee. Call them at (773) 235-8874 for more information.

What Does it Say to You Student Show @ Spertus

Tonight, seven art students from Columbia College and SAIC present original artworks in response to Spertus Museum's current exhibition What Does It Say to You? These student artists have met weekly to discuss the roles that cultural identity, religious perspective, and formal training play in the way that they create and experience art. The pieces on display are their physical manifestations of those discussions. These works will be temporarily installed alongside the Spertus exhibition for a special reception tonight. Students will speak about their work and artistic process at 6:30pm. Admission is $7, $5 for seniors, and free for students with ID and Spertus members. Spertus is located at 610 S. Michigan Ave.

Joe Hardesty Artist Talk @ Western Exhibitions

Joe Hardesty was the 2008 recipient of SAIC's Jacques and Natasha Gelman Travel Fellowship upon receiving his MFA from SAIC last year. Hardesty will discuss his current solo show at Western Exhibitions and the work he created during his fellowship year in Germany and his travels through central Europe. The lecture begins at 5:30pm. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. Contact them at 312-480-8390 for more information.

Mathew Paul Jinks: On Sundrun Opens @ UIC's Gallery 400

Jink's On Sundrun, uses the quintessentially English game of cricket to explore post-colonialism, ritual and memory. The exhibition will include sculpture, film, location sound recordings of cricket matches, and a performance in the gallery space during the opening reception. Jinks explores cricket as an enactment of the mythology of cultural identity and the effects of transposition and assimilation. The opening reception is tonight, from 5-8pm. The show will be up through Jan. 16 at Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria. Visit the gallery's website for more information or call them at (312) 996-6114.

Made in Chicago

La Llorona Gallery presents a new exhibition by Carolina Reyes, who found her inspiration for her new exhibit over the course of two years when she explored the city on her bike and discovered things she deemed unjust; thus focusing her artwork on a side of Chicago that is never seen on tourist's guides. Made in Chicago is now open to the public until January 10, 2010. La Llorona Art Gallery is located at 1474 W. Webster. You can call 773-281-8460 for more information and check out her artwork here.

Carrie Schneider @ MCA

Carrie Schneider is a SAIC alumni who makes big, beautiful photographs. There has been a lot of buzz around town about her work lately, and for good reason. She will talk about her work at 6pm today at the MCA: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is free, but you might want to call ahead (312-397-4010) to reserve a spot.

Maurizio Cattelan Coffee & Art Lecture @ The MCA

Paola Morgavi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of French and Italian at Northwestern University, will lead a discussion on the art of popular contemporary Italian artist, Maurizio Cattelan this morning. Unfortunately, Cattelan won't be there. This is part of the MCA's Coffee and Art series, which is basically a series of relatively cheap and easy Art History courses. The discussion begins at 10am. Space is limited; reservations are required. Admission is $18 for regular folk; $15 MCA members; $12 students with valid ID. For tickets, call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010. For more information, visit their website.

CHROMAsome Opening @ New Wave Coffee

"CHROMAsome: A Portrait of a Community," a photography exhibition by George Aye, makes its debut at New Wave Coffee, 2557 N Milwaukee Ave., with an opening party tonight at 7pm. Arranged chromatically from darkest to lightest in skin tone, each portrait of a Logan Square resident features a hand-written description by the participant of their background. The exhibition runs through Jan. 7. Free

Restless City Opens @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Restless City is Corbett vs. Dempsey's first solo show of artwork by Margo Hoff. It spans the majority of Hoff's lengthy and prolific career, and features woodblock prints, paintings, and painted "canvas collages" from the 1940s through the 1980s. In the East Wing is an exhibition of recent paintings by Sam Prekop. Yes, THE Sam Prekop. The opening reception is from 5-9pm tonight, and the show will be up through January 16. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland. For more information visit the galleries website.

Aspect Ratio Opens @ Plaines Project

MFA students in the School of Art and Design at UIC are presenting artworks reflecting on questions of time, space and narrative. Based in an interdisciplinary seminar class of the same name as the exhibition, the artists approach time, space and narrative within the multi-faceted context of readings, screenings and discussions in physics, anthropology, sociology, literary criticism and art theory. Aspect Ratio opens at Plaines Project (1822 S. Desplaines) tonight, the reception is from 6-9pm, and the show will stay up through December 18.

The One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart

The One of a Kind Show and Sale continues today from 11am until 9pm at the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 8th Floor; 312-527-4141). The event features handmade furniture, art, clothing, and accessories from over 500 artists. Tickets are $12 for all 4 days, and available at the show's website, along with a complete listing of participating artists.

Dmytro Dobrovolsky @ Ukrainian National Museum

As a world city Chicago has a lot to offer and this is no exception. Dmytro Dobrovolsky is a wonderful painter with a unique approach and relationship to paint, as he builds paintings piece by piece to create a wonderful unity.

Ukrainian National Museum 7pm
2249 W. Superior
312-421-8020
www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org

Pop-Up Shop @ Firebelly

Firebelly Design hosts it's 3rd annual Pop-Up Shop today from 6-10pm. Once a year, the socially responsible studio transforms its Humboldt Park loft office (2701 W. Thomas St) into a full-blown holiday art market featuring must-have items from Chicago's top artists, illustrators and designers. This year's holiday art market will donate 50% of all sales to benefit the neighborhood nonprofit, Reason to Give and its participating families. Featuring gifts for everyone on your list, the Firebelly Pop-Up Shop promises: paper goods, t-shirts, jewelry, vintage clothing, handmade accessories, posters and tons more. Plus there's an art wall with 50 pieces under $50.

Glitter: A Holiday Shopping Event @ Chicago Cultural Center

Check off everybody on your 'nice' list early today at Glitter: A Holiday Shopping Event. Stop by the Chicago Cultural Center (78 East Washington Street; Preston Bradley Hall, 3rd Floor) and browse wares from over 35 local designers and boutiques. The event runs from 11am until 8pm. For a complete list of participating designers and more details, visit their website.

Doodleganza Art Party @ The MCA

Chicago-based artist and teacher Paul Nudd will lead a doodling party today at the MCA, teaching participants how to "release their inner slug." This art party/class is appropriate for all ages-- pretty much anyone who can hold a pen in their hand. For some reason the MCA felt the need to mention on their press release that you shouldn't bring your pets to this event, so yeah, don't bring your doggies. Or kitties. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago. This event is free and begins at 6pm.

Precious Cargo Workshop @ Mess Hall

Multidisciplinary artist Paul Lloyd Sargentpresents his recent research and artwork and encourages attendants to bring their own maps, nautical charts, and lake/seaway shipping-related ephemera to mess around with and make art from. 5pm-7pm. Mess Hall: 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.

School of the Art Institute Holiday Art Sale

Today you'll be able to pick up some great art, jewelry, fashion accessories and paper designs at the School of the Art Institute's annual Holiday Art Sale. Look for one-of-a-kind gifts or discover the next great art superstar. The sale also gives the artists a little pocket money--they earn 85% of the proceeds from each piece they sell, with the SAIC getting a 15% commission. Today's sale runs from 10am to 5pm at the MacLean Center Ballroom (112 S. Michigan Ave). For more information, e-mail Campus Activities at student_life@saic.edu or call (312) 629-6880. Free.

Party Crashers Opens @ Concertina Gallery

Party Crashers, a group exhibition featuring photography, performance, drawing, and mixed media by Dick Blau, Micah Lexier, Dutes Miller & Stan Shellabarger, Davida Nemeroff, Annie Pootoogook and Carrie Schneider opens tonight and runs through Dec. 13. The reception is from 7-10pm at Concertina Gallery: 2351 N. Milwaukee. Visit the gallery's website or email them at concertinagallery@gmail.com for more information.

DIY Trunk Show @ Pulaski Park Auditorium

Check out this GIGANTIC trunk show and buy some handmade stuff by local creative people. 10am-5pm. Pulaski Park Auditorium: 1419 W. Blackhawk. Free.

School of the Art Institute Holiday Art Sale

Today and tomorrow, you'll be able to pick up some great art, jewelry, fashion accessories and paper designs at the School of the Art Institute's annual Holiday Art Sale. Look for one-of-a-kind gifts or discover the next great art superstar. The sale also gives the artists a little pocket money--they earn 85% of the proceeds from each piece they sell, with the SAIC getting a 15% commission. Today's sale runs from 11pm to 7pm at the MacLean Center Ballroom (112 S. Michigan). For more information, e-mail Campus Activities at student_life@saic.edu or call (312) 629-6880. Free.

TyK's Gala-Gallery Release Party @ Mars Gallery

TyK's popular sexy cyclists calendar is out again- the release party will feature large prints of the cyclists- pinups of the ladies and superhero portraits of the men. You can buy a calendar there, or at the TyK website. All proceeds go to the Chicago Women's Health Center. There will be free cocktails and prints for sale at the party. Mars Gallery: 1139 W. Fulton Market. 5-11pm.

Super Bad Ass @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Kick off the Select Media Fest at the Co-Prosperity Sphere with the group show that is sure not to disappoint, uh, I mean, it should be Super Bad Ass.

Featuring:
Juan Angel Chavez
Dayton Castleman
Stephen Eichorn
Aron Gent
Jeremy Tubbs
Hilary Olson
Tom Torluemke
Gunsho (James Quigley)
Berry Sander
Montgomery Perry Smith
Hui-Min Tsen (with dozens of participants)
Justin B. Williams

Friday, November 20, 2009, 7 pm to 1am
Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S Morgan St.
Admission: $8 after 9pm

Reality, Whatever That is Opening @ Western Exhibitions

Artist Nicholas Frank's Reality, Whatever That is show opens at Western Exhibitions tonight. Joe Hardesty's new work will be on display in gallery 2. The opening is at Western Exhibitions: 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A, from 5-8pm, and the show will stay up through December 19. Visit the gallery's website for more information about the artists, or call them at (312) 480-8390.

Artists at Work Forum: Teaching Art

Join four innovative teaching artists for a candid discussion about combining a passion for the arts with an interest in pedagogy. Learn the paths they've taken, the variety of opportunities available, and ways to connect for future professional development. 6-7:30pm. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Check out the listing on CAR's website for more information.

Wolfgang Plöger Artist Talk @ AIC's Price Auditorium

Plöger's artist's talk is in conjunction with the current exhibition On the Scene, which features new work by emerging artists. Plöger's work is interdisciplinary, using elements of photography, film, and sculpture. Currently on view at the Art Institute, Make No Mistake about This (2008) uses the text of death row inmates'
final statements as found on the internet. The lecture is from 6-7pm in the Price Auditorium at The Art Institute: 111 S. Michigan. Admission is free. For for information, visit AIC's website.

MFA Open Studios @ UIC

UIC MFA students will present works in varying media within their personal studios as well as video, film and media based work in screening rooms. Artists will be on hand to speak with visitors. 7-9pm. UIC School of Art & Design: 400 S. Peoria.

The Hydroacoustic Show Opens @ Gallery 400

This is a show of film and video works devoted to the unusual sounds and sights of the sea, curated by Ben Russell. Works on display include a siren-Spongebob-song, a flicker score for the Red Sea with a whale chorus, octo-electronica, and gurgling pop tune by internationally-famous and loved video artist, Pipilotti Rist. The opening is at 7pm at UIC's Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria. Call them at (312) 996-6114 for more information.

Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation

Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am-5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.

Deedee Davis and Casey Roberts: Closing Brunch Reception

If you still want a chance to catch the DeeDee Davis and Casey Robers cyanotype and layered glass painting show, head to the Home Gallery this afternoon to explore their use of color and natural imagery with glass, enamel, and photochemical processes and enjoy brunch. 12-3pm, Home Gallery (1407 E 54th Pl). For more information, call (773) 363-5935.

Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation

Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am-5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.

Melissa Oresky @ Western Exhibitions

Artist Melissa Oresky will conduct a discussion of her current exhibition "A Wildness of Edges" at Western Exhibitions today. The gallery talk begins at 4pm and is open to the public. A reception will follow, until 7pm. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. Call the gallery at (312) 480-8390 for more information.

Handmade Chicago

About 30 of the city's greatest makers of handmade goods will be gathering today at Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue) from Noon to 4pm for another Handmade Chicago. The sellers will help you you pick out a few gifts for others, or yourself. You can see who is selling at the show here. And one of the best parts of this show is that you get to sip a tall frosty something while you peruse fantastic products. If you don't leave with full shopping bags, you may leave inspired, or at least a little tipsy.

Tipping Observation @ Mars Gallery

New artwork by Syndy Ziegenfuss with music provided by our friends at the Old School Records in Forest Park. Martini bar to benefit the Red Door Animal Shelter.

6-9pm
1139 W Fulton Market
Chicago, IL 60607

Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation

Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am to 5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.

War and Peace @ Th!nkArt Salon

War & Peace An Exhibition of Contemporary Artists: David Gista A, Dave Sheehan & Todd Narbey
opens tonight, 5pm to 9pm, poetry readings by award-winning poets Emily Calvo & Stella Vinitchi Radulescu.

Th!nkArt Salon
1530 N. Paulina St., Suite F
T: (773) 252-8672 Ext. 303
E-mail: thinkartsalon@gmail.com

Stephen Bayley @ SAIC

Stephen Bayley is one of the world's best known and outspoken commentators on modern culture. Former Chief Executive of the Design Museum in London, Bayley's wit, humor, and keen observations on art and culture have brought him great success as a journalist, author, speaker, and design consultant for such companies as Absolut Vodka, Volkswagen, Audi, and the Victoria & Albert Museum. On this provocative evening of cultural history, Bayley explores why objects--from historic cars to the female body--convey meaning. Following the talk, Bayley signs copies of his two most recent books. The lecture begins at 6pm, at SAIC's Columbus Auditorium: 280 S. Columbus Dr. Email events@saic.edu for more information.

Jay Ryan @ Quimby's

Jay Ryan, the graphic artist sometimes better known by his screen printed poster shop name, The Bird Machine, kicks off a nationwide book tour at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 W North Ave) this evening, signing copies of his new book, Animals and Objects In and Out of Water, which features 120 of Ryan's favorite pieces of art from the last three years. The event starts at 7pm. Visit the Quimby's event calendar or call (773) 342-0910 for more information.

Jaume Plensa @ AIC

Jaume Plensa, creator of Millennium Park's Crown Fountain (you know, the one with the faces) and William and Stephanie Sick, distinguished professors at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, presents a lecture entitled "In the Public Space." Plensa will discuss the creation of Crown Fountain and his collaboration with SAIC faculty and students on that project, as well as other projects he's installed internationally.

This event takes place in the Rubloff Auditorium of the Art Institute (280 S. Columbus Drive) at 6pm. For more information, please call (312) 899-5143 or visit SAIC Events on Facebook.

Guerrilla Girls Lecture: Feminist Masked Avengers @ MCA

Since their first riotous appearance in 1985, the Guerrilla Girls have dedicated themselves to exposing sexism, racism, and corruption in the art world, the film industry, and popular culture. Adopting the names of dead women artists and decked out in full jungle drag, these anonymous avengers use facts, humor, and outrageous visuals to skewer institutional bias and inequality. In this program, the Guerilla Girls give a guided tour through the history of their many public interventions, perform satirical skits, and inspire us to create our own sophisticated acts of aesthetic resistance. Unfortunately this program is sold out, but you might try calling or just showing up at the last minute and begging to get in. The lecture begins at 7pm, at the MCA Theater: 220 E. Chicago. For additional information, call (312) 494-9509 or visit www.chfestival.org.

Haptic and Lisa Slodki @ MCA

Experimental musicians Haptic (Steven Hess, Joseph Clayton Mills, and Adam Sonderberg) and video artist Lisa Slodki (a.k.a Noisecrush) discuss their work and ideas during this informal gallery talk, which is part of the MCA's 12x12 exhibition series. Their exhibit will be up November 6-29. The artist talk begins at 6pm, at the Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is free. Call the MCA at (312) 280-2660 for more information.

Jorge Pardo @ AIC

Cuban-born Chicago-based artist Jorge Pardo's work walks the line between art and furniture. Check out this feature on him from the LA Times to get a sense of what he does. This lecture is part of SAIC's Visiting Artist Program.
Admission is $5 for the general public; $3 for SAIC alumni, non-SAIC students, and seniors; and FREE for students, faculty, and staff of the AIC. 6pm. Fullerton Auditorium: 112 S. Michigan.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.

"Wine and Time" Lecture/Tasting @ threewalls

David Tamarkin will lead a seminar on the pleasure of wine; a sensory examination and evaluation of wine for personal appreciation. We will discuss a range of perceived flavors, aromas and general characteristics of wine in a casual format and do some tasting. Tamarkin wears a lot of hats-- working for institutions from Time Out to CBS News to "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy"-- almost always functioning as a professional taste maker and "foodie." (Sorry for using that word.) The lecture starts at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria, #2D. $5 Suggested donation. Call 312-432-3972 for more information.

Artists Run Chicago Digest Release Party @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Artists Run Chicago Digest, published by threewalls and The Green Lantern Press, documents Chicago artist-run spaces active between 1999 and 2009 offering a look at the various platforms that often act as extensions to studio practice. The ARC Digest acts as compliment to and extension of the Artists Run Chicago exhibition at the Hyde Park Art Center, with interviews, essays, and an audio supplement presenting a 10-year time period in Chicago's artist-run culture.

The release party is from 2-5pm, Hyde Park Art Center: 5020 S. Cornell.
For more information, visit the HPAC's website or call them at 773-324-5520.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.

Daria Martin and Anne Collod in Conversation @ MCA

This fall the MCA presents two works developed in dialogue with legendary choreographer Anna Halprin -- choreographer and dancer Anne Collod re-interprets Halprin's dance performance parades & changes and filmmaker Daria Martin exhibits Minotaur, a film installation. In this conversation, Collod and Martin share their creative process, inspirations and shared interests: in Halprin's work; in questions of figure and abstraction; and in the strategies of reinterpreting and restaging artworks. The discussion begins at 2pm at the MCA Theater: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is $10, $8 for MCA members, and $6 for students. For tickets, call the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010 or get them through the MCA website.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.

Marwen Art Fair @ River North Gallery

Marwen's fourth annual Art Fair starts today (to raise funds for the art career-developing programs) at Marwen's gallery space in River North, 833 N. Orleans St.

The suggested donation on opening night is $20 and will be hosted with not only food, cocktails and music but a reflection with artists who will be present to discuss their work.

The Art Fair exhibition will continue until Nov. 13. Hours are Saturday, Nov. 7, 12- 6pm and Mon.-Fri., 9am-6pm. Prices of the art work range from $50 - $1000.

Jackie Tileston's Mesocosmos II Opens @ Zg Gallery

Jackie Tileston makes lush, colorful, celebratory paintings, photographs, and works on paper- feeding off the colors and customs of Eastern culture. An exhibition of her new work opens tonight at Zg Gallery, located at 300 W. Superior. Call the gallery at (312) 654-9900 for more information.

Hans Koch Performance @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Corbett vs. Dempsey continues its series of unaccompanied instrumentalists with a visit from the brilliant Swiss reed player Hans Koch. Koch joins us during an American tour that brings him to Chicago to perform at the Umbrella Music Festival. The performance begins at 4pm. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland, #3. Admission to this event is free. Call the gallery at 773-278-1664 for more information, or visit their website.

Austin Eddy Opening @ Golden Gallery

Austin Eddy creates paintings that borrow their imagery from a myriad of sources; this most recent work employs recurring visual vocabulary passed down through the history of painting. The compositional tools of Matisse, Picasso, and Avery act as a jumping off point for Eddyʼs renderings of colorfully patterned, melancholic interior spaces. Eddy experiments with the flattening of illusionary space, which at times the artist renders virtually abstract by building up layers of acrylic, enamel, oil, colored pencil, puffy paint, glue, nail polish, & spray paint.

The opening is from 6-9pm, and the show will be up through Dec. 12th. Golden Gallery: 816 W. Newport. Call (773) 209-8889 for more info.


Ghosting Opens @ Roots & Culture

Tonight, "Ghosting"-- works by Rob Doran and Ryan Fenchel opens at Roots & Culture Gallery: 1034 N. Milwaukee. The opening is from 6-9pm. The show will be up through December 6. Check out R&C's website for more information about the artists. Call the gallery at 773-235-8874 for more information.

Jean Fischer Lecture: "Tricksters, Troubadours, and Bartleby"

In this lecture, titled "Tricksters, Troubadours, and Bartleby - On Art from a State of Emergency," Jean Fisher discusses artists whose work emerges from a history of colonial violence and cultural dispossession. Framed within the idea of the hermeneutic play of the "trickster" and the "troubadour" (encountering, trespassing, vectoring, and opportunism), she asks, can art be a means of reclaiming agency? How might one characterize these practices, and do they differ from social activism? Can these practices resonate in the political, collective sphere? 6pm. Free. Art Institute of Chicago, Price Auditorium: 111 S. Michigan. Check out the listing on CAR's website for more information, or email events@saic.edu.

"Optimism & Everyday Life" Lecture @ threewalls

Claire Pentecost, a local artist and writer, gives a lecture today about optimism-- what happened to it and how can it be generated? 7pm. threewalls is located at 119 N. Peoria, #2D. Call them at (312) 432-3972 for more information.

"Talking Point" Art Discussion @ The Hyde Park Art Center

Dan S. Wang is a Chicago-based artist and writer, who cocurated the HPAC's "Shanghype!" exhibition. Previous writings have appeared in Art Journal, ART asiapacific, Ten by Ten, and New Art Examiner. Wang is also involved with Mess Hall, a performance and exhibition space in Rogers Park. This discussion is part of a series of such, aiming to reinvent the artist talk, built around dialogue and conversation amongst all participants rather than lectures or panels. Join this growing community of artists, curators, students, and all around creative individuals for drinks, snacks, and lively discussion. This event is free, and begins at 6pm. Hyde Park Art Center: 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call the HPAC at 773-324-5520 for more information.

Tour of Anthony Elm's Art & Ephemera Collection

Anthony Elms is the assistant director of Gallery 400, the editor of WhiteWalls, an artist, and a writer. Anthony Elms' collection includes show invites, correspondence, museum brochures, exhibition posters, self-produced posters and broadsheets, postcards, clothing, DVDs, mail art, knickknacks, LPs, scribbles, CDs and doodads. The full collection is listed here. Meet at threewalls gallery (119 N. Peoria, #2D) at 2pm. From there, the group will take the train out to Elm's home, where he will introduce his collection and participants will be given time to peruse the materials. Call threewalls at (312) 432-3972 for more information.

8 Bit Halloween ft. Bit Shifter

One of the premiere Game Boy-wielding 8Bit electronic musicians in the world is Josh Davis, aka Bit Shifter, and subVariant and Front 312 are excited to have him perform at Ai Lounge, 358 W. Ontario. The show runs from 10pm to 3am. A late night sushi menu is also available, as is $10 valet parking. $15 in advance, $20 at the door. 21+

Scott Treleaven & Josh Azzarella Opening @ Kavi Gupta Gallery

Canadian, Paris-based artist, Scott Treleaven's current exhibit memorializes the beautiful delirium of the 19th-century psychocultural impetus to capture the ephemeral - that which throbs just beneath the scrim of consciousness or skin, via travelogue, spirit photography, or film paraphernalia.

New York artist Josh Azzarella, shows his new film, Untitled #100 (Fantasia) 2007- 2009. The film makes a departure from his former use of historic press images to augment what is likely the 20th century's greatest pop cultural phenomenon, Michael Jackson's "Thriller". As a work that was created over a nearly three year process it predates the star's passing and marks Azzarella's most ambitious project to date.

The opening is from 4-7pm. The show will be up through Dec. 5th. Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 W. Washington. Call (312) 432-0708 for more info.

Mike Perry Viewing Party @ Renegade Handmade

Renegade Handmade (1924 W. Division) hosts a viewing party for Mike Perry's InSound 10 Classic silkscreen posters tonight from 7pm to 9pm. The artwork, rock posters for punk, new-wave, and indie bands, will be displayed through Tuesday November 17th. Free beer and wine will be served and T-shirts and tote bags featuring Perry's work will be available for sale. For more information visit Renegade Handmade's blog.

Rob Carter Opening @ ebersmoore Gallery

Photographer and video artist Rob Carter's first US solo exhibition, "Stone on Stone," opens tonight at ebersmoore. The work employs stop motion animation, time-lapse video and photographic 're-constructions' to spotlight the iconic and political structures in our urban environment, especially sports stadia, skyscrapers, churches, and other historical landmarks. ebersmoore Gallery is located at 213 N. Morgan, #3C. The opening is from 6-8pm, and the show will stay up through November 28. For more information, call (312) 772-3021.

Open House @ Graphic Conservation

Ever wanted a behind the scenes look at where art is restored? Here's your chance! Graphic Conservation specializes in the conservation and restoration of all art on paper, including books, photos, prints, family documents, etc...

Restored art will be on display, there will be free food, and the view is supposed to be pretty amazing.

6-9pm. Graphic Conservation: 329 W. 18th St. Suite 701. Free.

Halloween Party @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Corbett vs. Dempsey is hosting a day-long Halloween listening party, featuring hip and obscure, spooky tunes, painstakingly picked by the gallery. While you're there, check out Gina Litherland's 15 glorious new paintings, as well as Bart Johnson's haunted ink drawings. The gallery requests that you do not wear costumes to the party, which, I must admit, seems really lame. I say wear one anyway. The party is from 11-4pm. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland, #3. Call 773-278-1664 for more info.

Ken Fandell Artist Talk @ MCA

Chicago artist and SAIC instructor Ken Fandell will be talking about his practice. His wall installation, "Days and Nights, Dawns and Dusks, North and South, East and West, Mine and Yours," will be up through October 31st.
12-2pm. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ AIC

In the "500 Ways of Looking at Modern" performance, dancers perform choreography inspired by works in the Art Institute's collection. The event will convene in Fullerton Hall at 6 pm. Further information is on the AIC Calendar.

The Mann Collection of Ukiyo-e Presentation

The Japan America Society welcomes George Mann, Director & Vice President of the Japanese Art Society of America, to show images and lecture on his personal collection of ukiyo-e art, which is the largest collection in the United States. The lecture will cover all major periods of ukiyo-e, ranging from the 1680's to the 1860's, and includes a Q&A period. It takes place tonight at The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Michael Moskow Auditorium (230 S. LaSalle St., 3rd floor) with registration starting at 6pm, followed by the presentation from 6:30-7:15, and Q&A until 7:30. Due to security measures, all registration must be done in advance, either online or by calling (312) 263-3049. Students $5, Society members $15, non-members $20.

Artist at Work Forum @ Cultural Center

This Artist at Work Forum kicks off a year long collaborative project, Studio Chicago, which focuses on the Artist's Studio through exhibitions, talks, publications, tours, and research. The Forum will introduce key components of Studio Chicago, and invite participation and suggestions from artists and the art-curious. Presenters will include representatives from the Museum of Contemporary Art, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, Hyde Park Art Center, and threewalls gallery.
6-7:30pm, Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Free.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

The BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight from 6-9P at Wicker Park's Evil Olive (1551 W. Division St). The Halloween-themed event showcases established and emerging artists of various disciplines offering original finished works of art, design and illustration at at incredibly affordable prices. Plus, it's a great place to test your costume and get cheap drinks. In addition to the panel of artists including Ryan P Young, emmy star brown, [ad7m], Michael Kostal, rickikat, SUPAQOOT and artist sisters Nalleli and Sandra Sierra, practicing artists are encouraged to drop-in with their own materials to work on the sidelines and hang their pieces on the wall too. 21+

Trunk Show Opening @ Barbara & Barbara Gallery

Trunk Show: Luggage, Travel & Place opens tonight from 7-10pm at Barbara & Barbara Gallery, 1021 North Western Ave. The group show includes nearly 20 artists, including Pete Cuba, Julia Hendrickson, Scott Reinhard, David Schalliol, Chris Sykora and Hannah Zurko. Opening night music will be provided by Ben Bontempo, Julia Hendrickson & Marie Barker (with Chris Gingrich), Anna Vogelzang and Vintage Gramma. The show runs from October 23 until November 17.

Keith B. Evans Opening @ Simple Gallery

From 6pm until 9pm, Simple Gallery presents unreleased backgrounds, a show of Keith B. Evans' photography at Michelle Geoga Photography Studio, 2846 W. North Ave, second floor (enter side door on Francisco).

Fifth Annual Fashion Focus Chicago

Fashion Focus Chicago, which supports and promotes fashion designers living and working in Chicago, will hold its fifth annual Fashion Focus Chicago weekend today through October 25th. Head to Millennium Park for runway shows featuring fashions by the city's top designers.

Squasht by Les Trunk Show

As part of Fashion Focus Chicago, Squasht by Les, by independent Chicago based designer, Lesley Timpe, hosts a downtown shopping event. This trunk sale features reversible hats, ready-to-wear garments, ruched handbags and 1940s-style petal headbands. $10 off purchases of $100 or more, $30 of purchases of $200 or more. Light fare with beverages will be provided. 11am-1pm. 72 E. Randolph. Click here for more info.

A Cultural Reader @ MCA

culturalreader.jpg
This is a series of 7 minute micro-lectures curated by Golden Age with Marco Kane Braunschweiler and Martine Syms as your evenings emcees.

Feature lecturers:
Christopher Roeleveld
Paige K. Johnston
Hunter Husar
Nicholas O'Brien
Greg Stimac
Lisa Smith
Caroline Linder

Tonight 6-8pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
220 E Chicago Ave
Chicago, Illinois 60611
FREE

Historic Pullman's 1st Annual Art Crawl

This art fair features residents of the Historic Pullman District presenting their sculpture, poetry, pen & ink, film, photography, installations, exhibits, found art, music and much, much more. 1-5 pm, 112th St. & Champlain. For more information call (773) 209-6911.

Gina Litherland Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Gina Litherland's solo show, The Murmur of Pearls, opens tonight, featuring 15 new paintings. The show takes its title from Arthur Rimbaud, whose writings - along with those of Charles Baudelaire - constitute important points of reference for Litherland. The newest body of work includes several of Litherland's most ambitious and subtle pieces, some of them extending her fascination with circuses and exploring a recent love of opera. All the paintings are oil on masonite, exquisitely painted and often minutely detailed.

Eight graphite and ink drawings by Bart Johnson will be on display in the East Wing.

The reception is from 5-9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland #3. The show will be up through November 20. Call the gallery at 773-278-1664 for more information.

Melissa Oresky & Eric Lebofsky @ Western Exhibitions

Melissa Oresky will debut "Rock Gardens", a dynamic group of paintings that make an analogy between painting and gardening, combining a range of visual languages and elements within a series of small, paired canvases. Eric Lebofsky will present selections from a new drawing series, "Superfreaks." Starting on his 32nd birthday and continuing until his 33rd in August 2010, Lebofsky will post one Superfreak drawing a day on his blog. Opening reception from 5-8pm. The show will be up through November 13th. Admission is free. Western Exhibitions, 119 N Peoria St, Suite 2A.

Fake It 'til You Make It & The Devourer of Men: Martin Ontiveros and Jeremy Tinder

Purveyors of vinyl toy delights Rotofugi host new works by Martin Ontiveros and Jeremy Tinder tonight, 7-10pm. Music by DJ Sean Doe. 1955 W. Chicago Ave., Show runs until November 8.

Maria Gaspar @ MCA's 12 x 12 Gallery

The Museum of Contemporary Art will host Chicago artist Maria Gaspar as she discusses her work on view in the 12 x 12 gallery, which festively represents the immigrant body and Mexican heritage. Following the artist's talk, an after party will be held in Puck's Café , where Gaspar will play music and show images from her personal collection. Admission is free. 6pm. 220 E. Chicago. (312) 280 2660.


Industry of the Ordinary @ Packer Schopf

It looks like Packer Schopf will be the place to be Sunday night if your into the art scene at all. Industry of the Ordinary have invited thirty-nine people within the category "cultural workers," which I understand as writers, teachers, art advocates and anything else you can think might loosely fit into that genre. Some of the names being dropped for this show include Dawoud Bey, Inigo Manglano-Ovalle, Tony Tasset, Natasha Egan, and Paul Klein. Each of these "cultural workers," were given a different verb, and each will be displaying, performing, reciting or whatever else the will do to expose you to whatever they decided to do for that verb they were given. This should prove to be a fun time, I am excited to see how it all turns out, I even heard that there will be a priest taking confessions via text messages.

Sunday Oct 11th
5pm - 8pm

Regroup 1: New Works by Tara Grunwald + Dance Party

Join us for an exhibition of original works by Tara Grunwald of TGDesigns. Ai Lounge (358 W. Ontario), 9pm.

Free before midnight, $10 afterward or $7 after midnight with RSVP at http://www.going.com/regrouptaragrunwald. Valet: $10 all night. Late night sushi menu.

DJs:

Liz Revision (subVariant) [IDM | Chill | Blippy Minimal Techno]
Buckfever [Electro]
DJ Rick [Glitchy Tech-step]
DJ 7 [House | Baltimore Club]

Presented by subVariant & Inkline

9pm-3am

Artist Reception: 9-12am (Free)

21+

Official Site: http://www.subvariant.com

The Hunnert Car Pileup

The Chrome Czars Motor Club presents the eighth annual Hunnert Car Pileup "The Midwest's Greasiest Hot Rod Show," today at the historic Grundy County Speedway and fairgrounds in Morris. Featuring some of the Midwest's best examples of traditional style hot rods and Kustom Kulture, this is the show for the truly hardcore enthusiast, last years show drew 1200 rods, customs and motorcycles. Fast cars, fast women and fast music (full band lineup here) Admission for spectators is $5 and $20 for cars/trucks/motorcycles meeting criteria. Gates open at 9am.

Yuganaut with Film & Video @ the Velvet Lounge

This performance event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features the Brooklyn-based experimental jazz trio Yuganaut performing while video artist Selina Trepp mixes video in real time. Videos by Jayve Montgomery, Mikey Peterson, and other Chicago-based filmmakers and video artists will be projected. 9:30-11:30pm. Admission is $15. Velvet Lounge, 67 E. Cermak. For more information, call (312) 791 9050.

Pain Kurst Girls @ Debonair Social Club

The Pain-Kurst Girls use their sexual magic and belief in the power of femininity to entertain and captivate audiences. Be one of the captivated audience members tonight. 10pm. Debonair social club : 1575 N Milwaukee Ave. Call 773-227-7990 for more information.

The Punchbuggy Book Tour

Cartoonists Liz Baillie, MK Reed, and Ken Dahl (née Gabby Schulz) gather at Quimby's tonight for another stop along The Punchbuggy Book Tour: a trip within a trip of sorts, where they explore in graphic novel form journeys both physical and not. 7pm, 1854 W North Ave. Free!

Ravenswood Art Walk

This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.

Poetry Readings and "Telephone Art" Game @ Myopic Bookstore

This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features poetry readings and a "telephone art" game with poetry. Poets TBA. 7-9pm. Admission is Free. Myopic Books, 1564 N Milwaukee. For more information, call (773) 862 4882.

"Improvising Strategies for Large Ensemble" Workshop @ Elastic Sound and Vision Gallery

This interdisciplinary workshop, taught by Gino Robair, will examine a number of techniques you can use when improvising within a large group. There will be a focus on global awareness and listening, while exploring strategies for achieving maximum variety and avoiding stagnation. Concepts such as foreground/background, solo/support, and intention/non-intention will be discussed. 12-4pm. $25 workshop fee. Elastic Arts, 2830 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor. For more information, call (773) 772 3616.

Fresh Prints @ People Lounge

Logan Square artist Charlie Menga comes out of hiding and shows his new work in conjunction with a record release party for the new Meah!/Phantom Family Halo split 7". Or you can buy it here. The event is free. 7pm. People Lounge: 1560 N. Milwaukee.

Paintings, Poetry, and Live Music @ Elastic Sound and Vision Gallery

This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, includes Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of artworks by Alpha Bruton, poetry readings, and musical performances. Artists and projects include:

Eric Elshtain (Chicago) and Greg Fraser (Georgia) -- poetry collaboration
Satya Alliance (Satya Gummuluri (voice), Douglas Brush (percussion), Joel Wanek (upright bass), and Dan Godston (trumpet)). This performance includes poetry by Divik Ramesh (New Delhi).
Trio with Gino Robair (percussion / Oakland), Andrew Royal (violins / Chicago), and Aaron Zarzutzki (electronics / Chicago)
Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of new paintings by Alpha Bruton
Jamie Kazay -- poetry
Textaport Project
Wayne Allen Jones (Chicago) and Duane Vorhees (Bangkok) -- poetry collaboration
Bauhaus9090 performance
other performances / projects TBA

7-11pm. $12 suggested donation. Elastic Arts Foundation, 2830 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor. For more information, call (773) 772 3616.

Panel Discussion and Performance @ Chicago Cultural Center

This event begins at 1pm with a panel discussion involving people in New Orleans and Chicago discussing the arts, curation, and the roles of the arts in society. The panelists in New Orleans and Chicago will be connected over the internet, using Skype. A large ensemble performance of Gino Robair's Divination will begin at 2:30pm. The event will be held at the Claudia Cassidy Theater, on the 2nd Floor of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. 1-4pm. Admission is free.

Ravenswood Art Walk

This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.

22 in a Million @ Chicago Artist's Coalition

Today, 22 in a Million, part 1 opens, featuring all the 2009/2010 Coalition Gallery artists with an installation by Jonah Ortiz. Admission is free. 5:30-8:30pm. 2010 W. Pierce. For more information, call (773) 772 2386.

Chicago Calling @ Brown Rice

This event features two sets of sound, music, and film. First, a performance by Chicago Phonography. Second, Chicago-based musicians perform while films by out-of-town filmmakers are projected. Performers include Gregory O'Drobinak (Arc of the Oven), Ritwik Banerji (saxophone), Jayve Montgomery (saxophones and percussion), Saalik Ziyad (vocals), Williwaw (amplified ukulele), Jon Godston (soprano saxophone), Michael Staron (bass), Jimmy Bennington (drums), and other TBA performers. 10pm-12am. Brown Rice, 4432 N. Kedzie. $5 suggested donation.

First Fridays @ Museum of Contemporary Art

Chicago artist Maria Gaspar will publicly celebrate public celebrations with a large, body-like sculpture that will parade through the MCA in a performance and exhibit called, Oblation For A Parade. October's First Fridays theme is "Myth" and guests may view a Rag and Bone fashion show, create wearable tattoo sleeves at the Creation Station, participate in a scavenger hunt for Constellations, play cornhole in the sculpture garden, and dance to beats mixed by DJ Duke Shin and DJ Nate Mano. 6-10pm. Tickets are $11 in advance, $16 at the door, and $8 for MCA members. 220 E. Chicago. 21 & up. Contact the box office at (312) 397-4010.

Poets Perform @ Mercury Cafe

This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features performances by Chicago-based artists, mostly poets, in collaboration with artists who live outside of Chicago. Artists include Vittorio Carli, Carolyn Curtis Magri, Elizabeth Harper, Faux Paul, Rachel Javellana, Donna Collins, Elizabeth Marino, Janina Ciezadlo, Leonard De Montbrun, Don Coorough, Cathleen Schandelmeier, Sid Yiddish, The Clean Boys, and other TBA artists. Mercury Cafe has a bunch of vegan treats, too, for all you animal lovers. This event is free. 6-9pm. Mercury Cafe, 1505 W. Chicago. For more information, call (312) 455-9924.

Dirty Needles Craft Night @ The Hideout

If you've been craving exposure to glitter and yarn, and you'd really like to play with them in a bar, then this is for you. Dirty Needles, an established Los Angeles craft outfit, has expanded their membership to Chicago, and their first club meeting is today. Bring a small project - knitting, crochet, needlepoint, scrapbook... or volunteer to help with the projects the other members are working on. For you knitting virgins, there are rumors that a bona fide knitting instructor will be present. Oh, and I think boys are allowed, too. 5:30-8pm. The Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia.

Empowerment Art: Interactive and Collective Works @ New Wave Cafe

This event, part of the Logan Square ARTicipation tour, will feature work by Chicago ARTillery artists. On display will be paintings by Victor M. Montanez; Tracy Kostenbader; Camilo Quitze Quintana; Rene Ricardo Montanez; Iris Iris Pasic, Julia Rocholz and photographs by Chrystal McGrew. There will be music by El DJ Rebel X and Camilo Quintana. The audience will have the opportunity to interact with artists and can manipulate the paintings to discover various protagonists and themes. The exhibition runs through November 2nd. 6-10pm, New Wave Cafe, 2557 N. Milwaukee. (312) 405 7660. Free.

Larry Marder Signing @ Chicago Comics

Former Chicagoan Larry Marder's career spans many regions of the comic book world: the artist of the award-winning Beanworld has also been the Marketing Director for Chicago's Moondog's Comicland, Executive Director of Image Comics from 1993-1999, and President of McFarlane Toys from 1999-2007. Stop by Chicago Comics tonight from 6-8pm tonight to get your books and art signed and enjoy sneak previews of the new Beanworld book, Remember Here When You Are There. 3244 North Clark St, call (773) 528-1983 for more information. Free!

"Arts and Activism in St. Louis, Detroit, and Chicago" Panel Discussion @ The Little Black Pearl

This panel discussion focuses on the arts scenes in St. Louis, Detroit, and Chicago and is part of the Fourth Annual Chicago Calling Arts Festival. The panelists include Lindsay Obermeyer, Theaster Gates, Carol Ng-He, Jennifer Karmin, and Dan Godston. The panelists will be connected over the internet, via Skype, so the panelists and other participants will be able to see and hear each other. Free. 7-9pm at The Little Black Pearl Art & Design Center. 1060 E. 47th St. Call (773) 285-1211 for more information.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The fifth annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts takes place today and tomorrow on Broadway Avenue, just north of Belmont. Over 160 juried artists will be showing work in almost every genre and medium you can think of. Food, entertainment, and activities for the kids will also be available. The fest is open from 10am to 5pm and admission is free.

Preservation Chicago Benefit @ Elks National Veterans Memorial

Preservation Chicago's 2009 Autumn Benefit will be held at the amazing Elks National Veterans Memorial (2750 N. Lakeview Avenue) tonight from 6PM to 9PM. Preservation Chicago promises "superb hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, a big band, a silent auction of unique Chicago memorabilia ... and a guided tour of what has been described as one of the most magnificent war memorials in the world." Tickets are $75 in advance and $95 at the door, with valet parking included. For tickets and additional information visit the organization's website.

39th Annual Pilsen East Artist's Open House

Put on your walking shoes. It is time for the Annual Pilsen East Artist's Open House, a self-guided walking tour of the world of working artists. Art lovers are welcome to visit the homes, studios, theaters, dance spaces, and galleries of over fifty artists that will be participating in the event. They will also be available to discuss their work and share their creative process. The event will feature work from established and emerging artists in the Chicago area. The location spans approximately six blocks, with the central area at South Halsted and 18th Street. The event hours are Friday, Sept. 25, 6-10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 26 and 27, 12-7 p.m. For more information: 312-738-8000.

Reset. Play! Art Opening @ Fountainhead Lofts

Firebelly Design and within(Reason) co-host their second annual group benefit show tonight at the Fountainhead Lofts building (1932 S. Halsted, Unit 100). Part of the Pilsen East 39th Annual Open House Weekend, Reset. Play! opens from 6 to 10 pm and exhibits again on Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. This year, all proceeds from sales of the work will benefit two nonprofit endeavors: Reason to Give and The Hope Library.

Paul Nudd Gallery Talk @ Western Exhibitions

Western Exhibitions is hosting a free gallery talk with Paul Nudd, creator of the playful and intricate, if slightly repulsive Vomitromiton painting show that is currently living in the gallery. 6 pm. 119 N Peoria St., 2nd Floor.

2009 Windy City Comicon

Join vendors, exhibitors and a host of special guests (including acclaimed local artists Gene Ha, Tim Seeley, Chris Samnee and more) for Chicago's second annual Windy City Comicon. 10am-6pm, The Center on Halsted (3656 N Halsted). Tickets $10.

Granta: Camilo Vergara @ Hull House

Camilo Vergara, a MacArthur fellow photographer whose photo essay on Chicago's public housing projects appears in Granta's all Chicago issue, will be at Hull House to discuss his work along with Tim Samuelson and Peter Hales. Free at 6pm in the Dining Hall, 800 S. Halsted.

Renegade Craft Fair

Another outdoor go for the Renegade Craft Fair. Hopefully this one won't end up a mess of wet yarn and umbrellas. This year the renowned DIY craft show is located on Division St. between Damen & Hermitage in Wicker Park. Entry to the fair is free. The booths will be open from 11am-7pm today and tomorrow.

Beer, Bagels, and Make-your-own-Button @ Eye Spy Optical

Eye Spy Optical welcomes the Button-O-Matic machine to its Lincoln Square shop for the month of September. Busy Beaver invented the device in 2002 to distribute artist-designed buttons. The machine installed at Eye Spy will dispense limited edition 24-karat gold buttons. Celebrate with beer, bagels, and buttons (you can make your own!) from 12pm to 5pm. For more information, call (773) 477-2670 or send an e-mail to alissa@eyespyoptical.com. Eye Spy Optical, 3550 N. Lincoln Ave.

La Mode: Parisian Fashions in the Age of Impressionism

Discover Impressionist Paris at Mon Ami Gabi (2300 N. Lincoln Park West). Enjoy a French meal and a slide show on Parisian fashion by an Art Institute lecturer. The evening starts at 6pm with a wine reception, followed by the lecture, then a multi-course French dinner. The event costs $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. Call (773) 348-8886 to reserve your spot.

Filthy Rich Release Party @ Challengers Comics

To celebrate the release of the brand new Vertigo Crime original graphic novel Filthy Rich, Challengers Comics is celebrating: from 5pm to 7pm author Brian Azzarello will be signing copies of Filthy Rich as well as any of his other work. At 7pm the pen goes away and the drinks come out! 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R

Mid-American Bonsai Exhibition @ Chicago Botanical Garden

Mr. Miyagi will be proud of you for attending the 33rd annual Mid-America Bonsai Exhibition at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe today from 9am-5pm. You can buy them, look at them, take a workshop (registration required), or take a walk around the Botanical Garden (which is amazing, by the way). Admission is free; parking is $20 per car.

BFF Scavenger Hunt & Joyride Art Show

The Bicycle Film Festival throws a scavenger hunt and Joyride Art Show tonight. Registration for the scavenger hunt starts at 5:30pm in Union Park; the hunt begins at 6:30pm. The art show runs from 6pm to 10pm at the MCA Warehouse, 1747 W. Hubbard St., and features more than two dozen artists. Both events are free. The afterparty at Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland Ave., from 9pm to 2am is 21+

Student Art Sale @ Hyde Park Art Center

Support local artists at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., today from 1-4 pm.
Along with the center's Second Sunday outdoor art-making activities, student art will be for sale with 10 percent of the proceeds benefiting their scholarship fund.

North American Wildlife @ Family Room

The Post Family hosts North American Wildlife, "an assembly of conceptual artists working across all plat forms of visual, sound and multimedia installations," at The Family Room, 1821 W. Hubbard St., tonight from 6pm to 12:30am. Free.

Chicago Artists' Coalition Gallery Opening

Chicago Artists' Coalition inaugurates its new gallery space at 2010 W. Pierce St. with a group show of member artists, including Anthony Adcock, Maricarmen Pizano, Jennifer Bisbing, Loren Robare, Robert Brasher, Richard Shipps, Meredith Dytch, Michael E. Smith, Julian Gordon, Jun-Jun C.Sta.Ana, Juliette Herwitt, Jeff Stevenson, Diane Huff, Allison Svoboda, Barbara Krol, Darren Thompson, K.A. Letts, Vanessa Vargas, Lucy Mueller, Erin Waser, Jonah Ortiz and Serene Wise. The reception is from 5pm to 8pm tonight; the show runs through Aug. 30. Free.

A French Cheese Course @ LUMA

Sofia Solomon of local cheese supplier Tekla will be leading a lecture on French cheese making and tasting tonight at Loyola University Museum of Art (820 North Michigan Avenue) at 6pm. Admission $15-20.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and multiple live music stages. Here's today's music schedule:

Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
9pm I Kong Kult
8pm Tomorrow Kings
7pm In Tall Buildings
6pm Cains & Abels
5pm Algernon
4pm Vertikal
3pm Puerto Muerto
noon Alpha and the Princes of Futa

Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
8pm Johnny Comes Late
5pm Axix (Jimi Hendrix Tribute)
2pm Big Al's Polka Duo

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and multiple live music stages. Here's today's music schedule:

Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
9pm Blah Blah Blah
8pm Mass Shivers
7pm Michael Columbia
6pm Robbie Hamilton
4pm Son del Viento
3pm Nicole Mitchell
2pm Box of Baby Birds
1pm Pedro y Su Renaviniento
noon Mar Caribe

The Spirit of the Square, a presentation of choral music from the Logan Square area at the Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church, 2614 N. Kedzie Ave.:
6pm New Community Covenant Church Choir
5pm the Blue Ribbon Glee Club
4pm My Damn Butterfly
3pm Norwegian Lutheran Choir
2pm St. Luke's Choir
1pm St. John Berchmans Choir

Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
4-6:30pm Polish Elvis

The Astronomer w/Joe Meno @ Old Town School of Folk Music

Join a host of local authors, local music and local artists for a night of readings and musical performances at the Old Town School of Folk Music. The literary lineup includes Joe Meno (The Great Perhaps), Megan Stielstra, Billy Lombardo (How to Hold a Woman) and Stephanie Kuehnert (Ballads of Suburbia), with musical guests The Astronomer and Canasta, and art by Jay Ryan and Todd Baxter. 8pm in the Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $15 general admission and $13 for Old Town School members; get them online or call 773-728-6000.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival

The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and two live music stages. Here's tonight's music schedule

Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
10pm Scotland Yard Gospel Choir
8pm Jim Becker
6pm The Megitza Quartet

Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
6:30-10pm DJ Mazi & DJ Matt Alchemist presented by 1030AM

Atomic Sketch 1 Year Anniversary @ evilOlive

Tonight marks the 13th installment of the Atomic Sketch Event showcasing emerging Chicago artists, live art-making and an intimate look at the artists' process. Hosted by local art triumvirate, BCD Collaborative, the event marks the 1 year anniversary of Atomic Sketch and takes place, as always, at evilOlive (1551 W. Division St). The artists' panel includes: John Airo, Emmy Star Brown, Carlos Arteaga, Joey Potts, paranoidgirl, Torreyanna Barley, Brooks Golden, Joyce Vallejo, Michelle Mashon, Blütt, SUPAQOOT, Ethan Hutchinson and Ryan P. Young. Come draw, come watch, but definitely bring some dollars for American Rye Whiskey drink specials, other libations and great indie art + illustration. 6 to 10pm.

Salon des Arts Erotiques @ Randolph Street Market

Sure, Randolph Street Market is fun, but you're feeling a little frisky...maybe it's time to head to the Salon des Arts Erotiques, a special event this month only. Find the 3rd floor balcony in Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) and experience live nude models posing for sketches, check out vintage films and art, and much more. For adults only...today from 10am to 4pm. For more info call 312-666-1200.

Alex Robinson, Jeremy Tinder & Josh Cotter @ Quimby's

Comic artists Alex Robinson (Too Cool to Be Forgotten), Jeremy Tinder (Cry Yourself to Sleep) and Josh Cotter will be at Quimby's to discuss their work. Free at 7pm at 1854 W. North Ave. Call (773) 342-0910 for more information.

Salon des Arts Erotiques @ Randolph Street Market

Sure, Randolph Street Market is fun, but you're feeling a little frisky...maybe it's time to head to the Salon des Arts Erotiques, a special event this month only. Find the 3rd floor balcony in Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington) and experience live nude models posing for sketches, check out vintage films and art, and much more. For adults only...today from 10am to 5pm. For more info call 312-666-1200.

Get It Together @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

Get It Together, a group show of assemblage, collage and collaborative works, runs tonight from 7pm to midnight and Saturday from 2pm to 5pm at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219-21 S. Morgan St. Featured artists include Chris Robertson, Emily Clayton, James Ewert, Rod Hunting, Adrienne Goodrich, Peter Skvara, Chad Kouri, Matt Nicolas, Jim Kozar, Ed Marszewski, Ben Speckmann, Sara Jeziorski and Richard Smith. Le Deuce and Rik Shaw perform audio collage performance Free.

Run, Blago Run! Opening

Run, Blago Run!, a group show of art inspired by our disgraced ex-governor, opens tonight at 1925 N. Milwaukee Ave., with a reception from 6pm to 9pm. The show is also open Saturday and Sunday, July 25 & 26, from noon to 7pm. Free.

West Loop Gallery Tour

The Art Dealers Association of Chicago, composed of fine art dealerships ranging from the antique to the avant-garde, has added a second round of galleries to their weekly Saturday tours in River North. Beginning tonight and taking place every 6-8 weeks, the ADAC will take groups through the burgeoning West Loop art community. Stops on the tour include Peter Miller Gallery, Andrew Rafacz Gallery, Carrie Secrist Gallery, and McCormick Gallery. For more information about the new West Loop tour and their longstanding River North tours, see the ADAC website.

Nitrate and Kinogeists @ Portage Theatre

Century Guild brings legendary multi-media artist Dave McKean to the Portage Park Theatre for "Nitrate and Kinogeists", an exhibit of both both Century Guild's inventory of silent film posters and McKean's latest paintings from his haunting current body of work, Nitrate, inspired by the silent era of cinema. The two-day event features screenings of silent films that have inspired McKean, live performers, and other special surprises to be revealed. Tonight begins with an artist's reception at 6pm and concludes with a showing of F.W. Murnau's 1926 Gothic masterpiece, Faust at 9pm. On Saturday, there will be a special screening at 9pm of Dave McKean and Neil Gaiman's feature film MirrorMask , with McKean himself introducing.

Admission is $18 day/$30 for the weekend, 6pm- midnight. 4050 N Milwaukee Ave.

Decks and the City @ St. Ignatius' Prep Campus

Indulge your inner James Bond and stop by "Decks and the City", an evening of fashion, art, dancing, and (charitable) gambling, to benefit the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless tonight from 5:30 to 10:30pm. The event takes place on the campus of St Ignatius' Prep at 1076 W. Roosevelt Road and will include music by DJ Intel & Maker of the Comeups, fashion shows from local designers, a silent auction, and raffle prizes. Tickets start at $35 and can be bought online or by calling (312) 435-4548.

Disco Demolition Photos @ Music Garage

The Chicago Reader present an exhibition of photos from Disco Demolition Night by photographer Diane Alexander White. The exhibition happens tonight from 5pm to 8pm at the Music Garage (345 N. Loomis) with musical entertainment provided by Diane's kids: Miss Alex White and her brother Francis, who perform as White Mystery.

The Chicago Project III @ Catherine Edelman Gallery

The Chicago Project III photography exhibition opens tonight from 5pm to 8pm at Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St. Featured photographers include Shannon Benine, Philip Dembinski, Bill Guy, Eric Holubow, Julie Meridian, Jason Robinette, James Rotz, David Schalliol, Daniel Shea, Sarah Stonefoot, Leasha Overturf and Alan Thomas.

Magnificent Mile Art Festival

This weekend marks the 18th annual Magnificent Mile Art Festival. During this three day event, artists will display their art for all Chicago to see. All art is for sale, from $15 jewelry to $10,000 sculptures. There is something for everyone. The festival takes place at Pioneer Court in front of Tribune Tower from 10am to 6pm today and Saturday, 10am- 5pm Sunday. 435 N Michigan Ave. For more information, contact (954) 472-3755.

Japanese Calligraphy Workshop

Learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy and create a finished work on a Japanese fan in celebration of the Tanabata (Star Festival). Certified Calligraphy Instructor Yoshimi Tanaka will lead this workshop, which is tonight from 6-8pm at the Japan America Society of Chicago (20 N. Clark St., Suite 750). Cost is $15 Members /$20 Non-Members; all materials are included. Register online or by calling (312) 263-3049. Registration closes July 6.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The Flat Iron Artists' Association's Wicker Park/ Bucktown First Friday "smARTshow" premiers today and runs until Sunday. Starting at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave., the patriotic-themed exhibition event encompasses surrounding venues such as Piece Brewery and Pizzeria, Club Lucky, Just Indulge, and the new unique eye-wear gallery, Eye Want, to name a few. Admission is free but donations are suggested. More information can be found at the FIAA website.

Exception AM Release Party: Music to Relieve Your Hangover

Hangovers are the annoying, productivity-inhibiting result of a night spent drinking quite a bit, and yet we still put up with them because it's fun to loosen up, be social, and dance. Sure, it's easy to pop some aspirin, rehydrate and muddle through the morning, but wouldn't it be cool if music could relieve a hangover?

That's the concept behind Exception AM, a free digital compilation from subVariant that aims to present a collection of electronic music to help you feel better in the morning after a night of drinking. To celebrate the release on June 20 at http:/www.fractalspin.com, the release party will be held at Ai lounge in River North as the first in a series of concept parties called "Artificial Intelligence." Liz Revision will mix the mostly-ambient and downtempo tracks from the compilation together at the beginning of the night and will then hand over the decks to local DJs Silentcorp, Andrew Kevins, Dirtybird, and Droopy to finish out the night with techno and house. The party will be free all night from 10pm-3am.

10pm-3am
Silentcorp DJs
Andrew Kevins
Dirtybird
Droopy
Liz Revision
Ai Lounge. 358 W. Ontario, Chicago IL. 21+
FREE

AREA Chicago's Cheap Art Sale @ The Orientation Center

Five pieces of original art and photography, inspired by the city of Chicago, will be sold for $25 each, with proceeds to benefit making AREA Chicago #9 (www.areachicago.org).

This one day exhibit runs from from noon until midnight on June 20th, with DJ Charlie Vinz and a photo booth by Justin Goh from 7pm on.

@ The Orientation Center 2129 N. Rockwell Ave.

For more info contact Rachel.a.wallis@gmail.com

Featuring Works by:
Rachel Wallis, Anthony Elms, Rebecca Zorach, Emily Piper Forman, Jayne Hileman, Mary Sea, Jerome Grand, Frank Edwards, Jason Reblando, Justin Goh, Samuel Love, Borys Niewiadomski, Seth Kammueller, Dave Pabellon, Paul Sargent, Laurie Palmer, Mike Bancroft, Naomi Leibowitz, CAFF Collective, Daniel Tucker, Michael Coolidge, Allison Havens, Earl Secrest, Dave Marques, Sam Sieger


Opening of Séraphine @ Music Box

Séraphine recounts the life of French painter Séraphine Louis from her humble begins as a sheperdess to her celebrated work as a self-taught painter. Séraphine is discovered by art critic William Udhe and rises through the ranks of the French naïve painters, only to fall to madness and obscurity in her later years during WWII. The film itself has won numerous awards such as seven Césars (the French equivalent to the Oscars), including one for best picture.

The film premieres at the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport Ave.) tonight. General admission is $9.25.

Dismantling the Corporate State and Other Amusements

"Dismantling the Corporate State and Other Amusements," and exhibition of works by Anne Elizabeth Moore, open at the Center for Book & Paper Arts, 1104 S. Wabash, with an opening reception tonight from 6pm to 9pm. On display will be 16 years of zines and other works commenting on consumerist culture, modern media and feminism. Free.

Fashion :: Sex :: Music @ Sonotheque

Fashion :: Sex :: Music -- hosted by GodsGirls.com [NSFW!]

And, yes, VERY sexy! It will be hosted by http://www.godsgirls.com [NSFW!], a few of whom who will be in lingerie all night (maybe even dancing?). If you're not familiar, the site is like Suicide Girls except a bit more DIY, has actual pr0nz, and it's totally hot. It's only $5 all night--a steal considering you get to listen to techno, electro, funk and disco while ogling gorgeous women.

Liz Revision (Chicago, minimal-techno / electrohaus / tech-house / dance)

Fathom (Chicago, dance)

Avi Sic (Chicago, dance)

Hilary Rawk (Chicago, disco-funk-dance)

FASHION AND MIXED MEDIA INSTALLATION BY

MBH Mafia: Creating Cross Disciplinary Art Through Collaboration

@ Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago, Chicago IL, 9pm - 2am, $5

Tuesdays on the Terrace : Josh Berman @ MCA

Tuesdays on the Terrace presents free evening jazz concerts on the MCA's terrace and sculpture garden. This Tuesday, cornetist Josh Berman entertains from 5:30 to 8 pm. In case of rain, the events take place inside Puck's Café. Free. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago, 312.397.4010.

"Celebrity Autobiographies" @ Hungry Brain

You, Me, Them, Everybody presents "Celebrity Autobiographies": Adam Ant, Celine Dion, Rick James, Liz Renay, Barry Manilow, Joe Eszterhas, Bob Uecker. Read by Kristen Cox, gianofer fields, Dan Rybicky, Tim Reid, Joe Mason, Liz Mason, Brian Shapiro. Monday, June 15, 8:30pm (doors open 8pm) at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont, 21+.

Old Town Art Fair @ Old Town Triangle

Check out one of the oldest juried art fairs in the country this weekend as the Old Town Art Fair celebrates 60 years. This year the fair will feature 260 exhibitors, entertainment, food, children's activities and a self-guided garden tour. Suggested donation is $7 -- children 12 and under are free. The fair is located at 1763 N. North Park and is open from 10am-6pm today.

Old Town Art Fair @ Old Town Triangle

Check out one of the oldest juried art fairs in the country this weekend as the Old Town Art Fair celebrates 60 years. This year the fair will feature 260 exhibitors, entertainment, food, children's activities and a self-guided garden tour. Suggested donation is $7 -- children 12 and under are free. The fair is located at 1763 N. North Park and is open from 10am-6pm today and tomorrow.

"Inside Out" Exhibition @ National Public Housing Museum

The previous "Inside Out" audio and visual installation in the future home of the National Public Housing Museum, the former Jane Addams Homes, 1322-24 West Taylor Street, did so well, two more showings are scheduled. Set in the former residential units, interviews with public housing residents will be paired with photographs by Jack Bridges, John Brooks, Patricia Evans, Scott Fortino, Bridget Montgomery, Bob Natkin, Jason Reblando and David Schalliol. The event is free. It will run from 12pm-3pm. For more information call: (312) 446-2034.

"Inside Out" Exhibition @ National Public Housing Museum

The previous "Inside Out" audio and visual installation in the future home of the National Public Housing Museum, the former Jane Addams Homes, 1322-24 West Taylor Street, did so well, two more showings are scheduled. Set in the former residential units, interviews with public housing residents will be paired with photographs by Jack Bridges, John Brooks, Patricia Evans, Scott Fortino, Bridget Montgomery, Bob Natkin, Jason Reblando and David Schalliol. The event is free. It will run from 6pm-8pm. For more information call: (312) 446-2034.

Choose Art for CTA

The process to choose art for the CTA's new Fullerton station continues with a public meeting for the community to review proposals and comment. 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Branch Library, 1150 W. Fullerton Avenue. [More info, including finalists]

Twitter Island

Today from 1pm to 3pm at Chicago Art Department, 1837 S. Halsted, artists Lauri Apple and Seth Gershberg present "Twitter Island," a social/art/psychology experiment in which 15-20 people communicate with each other anonymously and in the same room, using only Twitter. Come watch the action, and participate in a treasure hunt using actual tweets generated at the last Twitter Island. Free.

Sam Shoots @ The Family Room

In honor of his 24th birthday, Post Family member Sam Rosen has hung a thousand of his own pictures in the Family Room gallery space, 1821 W. Hubbard #202, tonight from 6pm to midnight. The photos are available for purchase right off the wall, and as they're purchased they reveal a solid square of pigment -- the average color of each corresponding photo, determined by a computer algorithm -- creating a secondary image that evolves throughout the night. There's also food and beverages, live music and DJs, and a photo booth. Free. More info here

Pecha-Kucha Night @ Martyrs'

Check out designers presenting 20 images for 20 seconds each at Pecha-Kucha Night tonight at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., at 8pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. 21+

Indie Arts Market @ Schubas

The 2nd annual Indie Arts Market will showcase the latest creations from Chicago illustrators, artists and crafters. Jewelry, screenprints, letterpress, stationery, housewares and much more will be for sale. Free event, open to the public! 11am - 4pm at Schubas (in "the music room") located at the corner of Belmont and Southport. Full details, including information on all the sellers at the Indie Arts Market website.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

BCD Collaborative hosts an estrogen-packed installment of Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's evilOlive (1551 W Division St). Showcasing established and emerging female artists of various disciplines, the event's all-girl guest artist panel includes: Emmy Star Brown, Michelle Mashon, Sarah Francis Hollis, Kendra Taylor, Margaret Page, Leila Ryndak, paranoidgirl and Joyce Vallejo. Come draw, come watch, but definitely bring some dollars for cocktails, libations and great indie art + illustration. 6-10pm.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

Today is the last day that you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Secret Handshakes @ Rotofugi

New works by Brian Morris and Mitch O'Connell, tonight, from 7pm-10pm. Music by DJ Unicorn. Runs until June 7th.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Free Admission to the New Modern Wing @ Art Institute/Depository Food Drive

From May 16-22, you can visit the newly opened Modern Wing of the Art Institute (111 S. Michigan Ave) for free. For the $12-18 that you're saving in admission, help out the hungry in Chicago by bringing a donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, who will be accepting non-perishable items at food collection sites that will be located on the Michigan Avenue and the Monroe Street sides of the building.

Manifest Urban Arts Festival

Columbia College's Manifest Urban Arts Festival fills the day with fun activities today. Performance art is, er, performed in various places from 11am to 7pm. Art cars line up at 640 S. Wabash from 11am till 9pm, while an exhibition of auto-inspired art is on display in the parking lot at Wabash and 9th Street from 4 to 7pm. An artwalk runs from 4 to 7pm, student work showcases run throughout the day and the school's galleries are all open from 11am to 9pm. Mucca Pazza leads a march at noon, and the big Spectacle Fortuna Parade of Creativity kicks off at Harrison and Wabash at 6:45pm. Plus all sorts of music throughout the day and night. All free! Check the site for details.

Live scoring of "The Living Planet" by Benn Jordan @ Sonotheque

A screening of 'THE LIVING PLANET' with a live score by
BENN JORDAN

with
POLYFUSE
BENN JORDAN (DJ set)
Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago Ave
9pm - 2am
Free

Commercial music producer Benn Jordan (recording as The Flashbulb) stumbled upon David Attenborough's 1970s-era documentary series that was "more in touch with nature than any other." Along with the BBC he and his crew geared up for the endeavor--and they would risk their lives and careers to do so. The result, "The Living Planet." Benn loved the concept and the film, but stated that, "the only thing I'm not in love with about this series is the music. A bit too minimal and synthy when perhaps a more cinematic approach is needed." Taking it upon himself to re-invision the soundtrack, Benn--along with opener and visualist Polyfuse--will re-create live the score to the the first of The Living Planet series: "The Building Of The Earth." Benn will finish out the night DJing. For a free performance, it's innovative and a definite welcome to the respective film and electronic music communities.

The Books @ MCA

Experimental folktronica duo The Books perform tonight at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Avenue, at 6pm. The performance includes a pre-concert talk with members Nick Zammuto and Paul de Jong. Tickets are $20, available online. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.

Savage Dragon @ Challengers Comics

Erik Larsen, creator of "Savage Dragon" will be signing books from 12:00 noon to 3pm. Local band Heroes for Hire, will be playing at 11:30am and 3:30pm. Free comic books from a range of the hottest publishers including the big four publishers (Image Comics, Marvel, D.C. Comics and Dark Horse Comics) will be handed out while supplies last from 11am to 5pm. Challengers Comics, 1845 N. Western Ave, 2R.

Free Fender Electric Guitar Bench Check @ Old Town

Bring in $5- $10 worth of canned food for the Greater Chicago Food Depository to the Old Town School of Music Store, and get a free basic setup on your electric guitar. From 11am-5pm, Jack Schwarz, Fender's Vice President of Global Customer Service, will be performing electric guitar bench checks, including a new set of Fender guitar strings, action, neck, bridge and pickup adjustment and an intonation check. All brands of six-string electric guitar are welcome; one guitar per customer. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N Lincoln Ave, (773) 728.6000

Common Nonsense @ Rotofugi

New works by master of surreal beauties Ken Keirns and wood, vinyl, and now resin toy artist Scott Tolleson. 1955 W. Chicago Ave, 7-10pm. Music by DJ Qbot. Soda and snacks will be served. Exhibit continues through 5/17.

Lunch Hour Talk @ Smart Museum of Art

The Smart Museum of Art (5550 South Greenwood Ave.) presents a lunch-hour talk today at noon. "Artistic Evidence: Data or Dust?" investigates whether collecting periphery objects and source materials related to Chicago artists Roger Brown and H.C. Westermann are worthwhile. The talk is free, advance registration is required. Box lunches may be ordered in advance ($10/$8 Museum members). To register, contact Kristy Peterson at 773-702-2351. More information is available online.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

BCD Collaborative hosts the tenth installment of Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's Evil Olive (1551 W. Division St). Showcasing established and emerging artists of various disciplines, the event promises finished works at recession-buster prices. This evening's "guest artists" include: Kyle Francis Harter (check out his super awesome Meowl t-shirt!), David Simpson, John Airo, James Mosingo, Shane Swinnea and Fathom + Flip from OhNo!Doom. 6-10pm.

reCreate 2009 @ Packer-Schopf Gallery

Sponsored by the Resource Center Chicago, this event lets you make your own creative statement using found objects. Led by artist Danny Mansmith, guests will be invited to participate in creating their own artwork to take home, using 100% recycled materials. Buy your $35 ticket online, then come on over to the Packer-Schopf Gallery, 942 W. Lake Street, from 5:30 to 8:30pm tonight. The event benefits the Resource Center's Recycling, City Farm, Food Recovery and Creative Reuse programs.

James Kennedy @ Edgewater Public Library

The fantastic James Kennedy will be at the Edgewater Public Library today to read from and discuss his fantastic book The Order of Odd-Fish as part of the library's Teen Volume Book Discussion. The discussion is free, but registration is required. Call 312-744-0718 to save your spot. Free at 4pm, 1210 W. Elmdale Ave.

The Guerrilla Girls @ International House

The Guerrilla Girls use facts, humor and visuals to "expose sexism, racism and corruption in politics art, film and pop culture. A founding member will talk about their work, their philosophy of activism and their campaign against the appalling lack of ethics in the art world." Assembly Hall, International House, 1414 East 59th Street. Doors open at 6:30pm, show at 7:00pm. Free.

"Inside Out" Exhibition @ National Public Housing Museum

"Inside Out" is a one-night exhibition of audio and visual installations in the future home of the National Public Housing Museum, the former Jane Addams Homes, 1322-24 West Taylor Street. Set in the former residential units, interviews with public housing residents will be paired with photographs by Jack Bridges, John Brooks, Patricia Evans, Scott Fortino, Bridget Montgomery, Bob Natkin, Jason Reblando and David Schalliol. The event includes a reception and is free. It will run from 6pm-10pm. For more information call: (312) 446-2034.

Flower Parade: New Works by Jeremiah Ketner & Julie West @ Rotofugi

Chicago painter Jeremiah Ketner with UK-based Julie West for what is sure to be a fantastic show at Rotofugi, 1953 W Chicago Ave, 7-10pm. Free, and there will probably be snack cakes.

Student Fashion Show @ Dominican University

Visit Dominican University (7900 W. Division Street, River Forest) on today to get a glimpse of the future of local fashion design. Over 150 student designs will walk the catwalk at 3pm and 7pm at the school's annual student fashion show in the Lund Auditorium. Tickets are $12. Call 708-366-2490 for more information.

Opening: Your Pal, Cliff @ Smart Museum

Today from 5:30pm-7:30pm visit the Smart Museum of Art for the opening of "Your Pal, Cliff: Selections from the H. C. Westermann Study Collection" and a lecture "about the idiosyncratic life and art of H. C. Westermann" delivered by David McCarthy, Professor and Chair of the Rhodes College Department of Art. The Smart Museum is located at 5550 South Greenwood Avenue. Free.

An Evening with Jay Ryan

Join Chicago-area concert poster maker Jay Ryan as he discusses his computer-free design work, hands-on printing process and some of his favorite prints made during the last 13 years. As this discussion takes place on the first of April, Jay may simply show slides of rabbits and/or fish which he has seen in various public parks. 6:30pm, The Parthenon Restaurant, 314 South Halsted Street. Sponsored by The Society of Typographic Arts. Tickets $25 for STA members, $10 for students, $35 for non-members. To register go here or e-mail jw@jackweissassociates.com.

"Scanning and Planning" @ The Art Institute

Susan E. Alcock, Professor of Classics and the Director for the Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology and the Ancient World at Brown University will deliver a lecture entitled "Scanning and Planning: Modern Modes of Watching the Ancient World" in Fullerton Hall, Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue. A champagne reception begins at 6pm and will be followed by the lecture at 6:30pm. Free. For more information, visit the U of C's Humanities Division calendar.

Phyllis Ross @ The Art Institute

Today, Phyllis Ross, author of Gilbert Rohde: Modern Design for Modern Living will discuss modernist furniture and industrial designer Gilbert Rohde. The event will be held in Fullerton Hall at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Ave. Time TBA. $5 students; $10 Architecture and Design Society Members; $15 General Public. For more information, visit the website.

The Show 'n Tell Show

Hosted by designers Michael Renaud and Zach Dodson, The Show 'n Tell Show is a late night-style show where the guests are the city's most dynamic designers, photographers, illustrators and poster-makers. They each present a single project in a lively evening full of drinks, laughs, and design. 7pm @ The Whistler, 2421 N Milwaukee.

Margin Detail: A Doodle Party

Come join art and design collective The Post Family at The Family Room today as they celebrating the launch of Margin Detail, collection of unrefined doodles by working illustrators and designers. This will be a doodle party, drawing trade, zine jammin' good time. 6-10pm, The Family Room (1821 W. Hubbard St. #202).

Boombox Closing Reception @ Heaven Gallery

Boombox, a show of music-related poster, silkscreen and letterpress art, holds a closing reception at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 7pm to 11pm.

Holle Cambodia Talk @ ThreeWalls

Anne Elizabeth Moore discusses the exhibition Holle Cambodia at ThreeWalls Gallery, 119 N. Peoria #2d, from 6pm to 8pm tonight. The exhibition features seven zines and comics handmade by young Cambodian women with little other access to mediums of self-expression, as well as the collaborative book New Girl Law, a demand for gender equality and human rights co-created by Moore and 32 residents of a unique all-girls university dormitory. Moore will explain how the publicaitons were created and about the barriers in Cambodia and the US to letting you see them.

Equinoccio de Primavera

Site of Big Shoulders presents an exhibition of art by Q: Cleveland Dean and Jordan Gilchrist at the Space of Big Shoulders, 1543 N. Milwaukee Ave. The gallery exhibition is open today from 2pm to 6pm, followed by a reception from 7pm to 11pm featuring refreshments by Wicker Park Libations, music by DJ Bigshoulders and a silent auction. More info here.

Strange Happenings @ Rotofugi

It's girls, girls, girls at Rotofugi tonight, featuring paintings by Kelly Vivanco, Juri Ueda and Rudy Fig. 6-10pm, 1955 W. Chicago Ave. For more information call (312) 491-9501 or visit the site.

Handmade Market @ The Empty Bottle

Handmade Market is a unique event to connect the makers of beautiful things to people who appreciate the unique and handmade. This free event takes place from noon until 4:30pm at The Empty Bottle (1035 North Western Ave.).

16th Annual "One Inspired Evening" Art & Dream Job Auction

Bid on art and your chance at a "dream job for a day" at this benefit for Inspiration Corporation, an agency that assists the homeless and poverty-stricken with employment, social, and housing services. The event takes place at the River East Arts Center (435 E. Illinois St.) from 6-11pm. Tickets are $100 in advance, $125 at the door, and include cocktails, a buffet, music, and the opportunity to watch artist Scott Glazier create an oil painting that will be part of the auction. Order tickets online or by calling 773-878-0981 x221.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.

Woman Made Gallery Opens

Woman Made Gallery opens with a reception for a group show curated by Yolanda M. López. Reception is tonight from 5pm to 9 pm. Show runs to April 16. 685 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Alexis Mackenzie Opening @ Threadless Gallery

Collage artist Alexis Mackenzie opens a show of her work at the Threadless Gallery, 3011 N. Broadway, tonight from 7pm to 9pm. Free.

Happy Birthday, Chicago! @ Chicago History Museum

Celebrate the city's 172nd birthday party @ at the Chicago History Museumwith music, crafts, and birthday cake from 10am-pm General admission to the Museum is FREE. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.

Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit

Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Today's performances are at 2, 4 and 6pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.

Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit

Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tonight's performance is at 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.

Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit

Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.

Art Against AIDS 2009

The Junior Board of Heartland Alliance hosts Art Against AIDS® 2009, benefiting the organization's work to advance human rights for all, including extensive networks of supportive services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Named one of Chicago's Top 100 Events by BizBash Magazine, this philanthropic after-work party features more than 75 works of art in a variety of media, including original pieces by local and national artists. Guests will enjoy an exciting live and silent fine art auction, cocktails, gourmet fare, music and live entertainment.

The event is tonight from 6 - 10pm at the River East Art Center (435 East Illinois Street). Tickets are $125 if bought in advance; $150 at the door. For more information, contact Colleen O'Donnell at CODonnell@heartlandalliance.org

The Viking & Morgan Opening @ Novem

Street artists The Viking and Morgan celebrate the opening of an exhibition of their work at Novem Studio, 1104 N. Ashland, tonight from 6pm to 10pm. They're promising surprises, free things, beer, art and "things you can't even imagine."

Kat Von D Book Signing @ Borders - Schaumburg

Kat Von D of TLC's LA Ink will be signing copies of High Voltage Tattoo, which "opens the door to today's global tattoo culture." This event is free. 7:30pm at Borders - Schaumburg, 1540 Golf Rd., Schaumburg, IL. (847) 330-0031.

President's Day @ Chicago History Museum

Celebrate the history of our nation's presidents through storytelling, musical and dramatic performances, and craft activities at the Chicago History Museum from 10am till 2pm. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details. Free!

Handmade Market @ The Empty Bottle

Handmade Market is a unique event to connect the makers of beautiful things to people who appreciate the unique and handmade. This free event takes place from noon until 4:30 p.m. at The Empty Bottle (1035 North Western Ave.).

TINY TITANS DAY with Art Baltazar

Tiny Titans creator Art Baltazar comes by Challengers to sign and sketch. They'll also be giving away a whole mess of Tiny Titans-themed Valentine's Day treats. Cookies, candies, cupcakes, cards...and anyone who shows up in costume, kid or adult, gets a FREE Tiny Titans comic signed by the artist. 12pm-3pm, 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R. Free! More info here.

Bike Winter Art Show @ Flat Iron Building

The Bike Winter Art Show celebrates bicycle-themed art, including a pin-up calendar to benefit Chicago Women's Health Center by The Chicago Cycling Ladies of Thought You Knew. 6 to 10pm. Flat Iron Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee. El: Blue to Damen/Milwaukee. Bus: 50 Damen, 56 Milwaukee, 72 North.

A Conversation with Nina Berman

The Illinois Humanities Council is sponsoring a lunchtime interview with documentary photographer Nina Berman at Roosevelt University's Gage Gallery (18 S Michigan Ave). Berman's exhibit "Homeland - Photos by Nina Berman" is running at the gallery. Teri Boyd, photo editor of the City 2000 project, will conduct the interview. The event runs from noon-1:30pm and is free, but reservations are required and can be made online, by e-mailing events@prairie.org, or calling 312-422-5580.


Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.

Puppy Love @ Willow

Hosted by Amy Doehla of Willow and curated by Amy Rowan of Art School Girl, the Puppy Love art show promises one-of-a-kind pieces from over a dozen Chicagoland artists and designers. Besides offering perfect last minute Valentine's Day gifts, proceeds from the art show benefit Chicago Canine Rescue. The 3-hour event starts at 6pm tonight at Willow (908 N. Damen Ave).

Have a Heart Art Auction

All of the proceeds from this contemporary artists group show and silent auction at Woman Made Gallery go towards helping the animals at Red Door Animal Shelter. Admission is free. Cash bar for wine, soda, and heart-healthy pomegranate martinis. 6:00pm - 9:00pm. 685 N. Milwaukee Avenue. 312-738-0400.

Chicago Fashion Incubator @ Macy's

Support emerging Chicago designers at Macy's New Designer Reception. The Chicago Fashion Incubator, a mentorship program providing six emerging designers with resources and work spaces, will bid farewell to its inaugural class tonight. Visit the 11th floor of the 111 North State Street location from 6pm to 8pm to peruse local designers' merchandise and welcome the new 2009 designers in residence. Please RSVP by Friday, February 6 to 312-494-6772.

The Future of the Hyde Park Art Center @ HPAC

The Hyde Park Art Center (HPAC) has been particularly affected by the economic downturn. In anticipation of even rougher times, the Board of Directors has reduced its budget by 15% for 2009 and four employees -- a quarter of the staff -- have been laid off. In response, the HPAC is holding a public forum tonight in which they "want your questions, reactions and suggestions to changes at the Center." The event starts at 6pm in its 4833 rph space, 5020 S. Cornell.

Structuring Change @ Cultural Center

Chicago-based artist Inigo Manglano-Oval , whose work incorporates natural forms and systems, talks with scientist Mark Hereld of the Argonne National Laboratory and University of Chicago, and New York-based artist Siebren Versteeg. Part of the Ars Scientia series, 6pm, free, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater, 78 E Washington. For more information, visit the website.

Circus of Horrors @ Intuit

Intuit: the Center for Outsider and Intuitive Art presents a screening of the 1960 film Circus of Horrors, in conjunction with their current exhibition of drawings by artist Joseph E. Yoakum. The film screens this afternoon at 2pm, Intuit gallery (756 N. Milwaukee Avenue). Admission is $6. For more information on this or other films that Inuit is screening please see the Intuit Website.

Simple Gallery Benefit @ The Post Family

Local artist Dee Clements, known for her meticulous textile vignettes, will host a benefit at The Post Family tonight to raise funds for her soon-to-be-open Simple Gallery. Art auctions, video displays, and a performance by The Blue Ribbon Glee Club - oh, it's gonna be big. Free admission. 6pm - 10pm. The Post Family is located at 1821 W. Hubbard Street, Suite #202.

Gapers Block/Calumet Photo Swap @ Calumet Photographic

Gapers Block and Calumet Photographic invite photographers of all experience levels to participate in a photo swap. Show up at Calumet with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out with other photographers and then leave with five photos from others. Food and drinks will be provided. The event is free and will be at Calumet Photographic, 1111 N. Cherry Ave, from 5:30pm and 7:30pm. For more information, contact David Schalliol.

Facilitators Exhibition @ Open Studio Project

Venture up to Gallery 901 (901 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL) for the annual Facilitators Exhibit opening, showcasing artwork by Open Studio Project facilitators. The opening (10am-4pm) will feature art, refreshments and art making! Visit OpenStudioProject.org, their Facebook page, or call 847-475-0390 for more details.

Peggy Macnanmara @ The Morton Arboretum

Today, Chicago author Peggy Macnanmara discusses her book Architecture of Birds and Insects: A Natural Art at the Morton Arboretum from 7pm-9pm. Full details are available on the Science Chicago website.

Collaborative Vision: The Poetic Dialogue Project @ Cultural Center

Local artist Beth Shadur curates this exhibit of 31 collaborative artworks by poets and visual artists. In the Sidney R. Yates Gallery through 5 April. 77 E Randolph, free. For more information, including exhibit times, visit the website or call 312-744-6630.

Patti Smith @ Block Museum of Art

Legendary musician, poet, and artist Patti Smith will attend the Block Cinema screening of the new documentary Patti Smith: Dream of Life at 8pm tonight at the Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr. in Evanston. Smith will participate in a post-screening discussion with the film's director, Steven Sebring, and Sun-Times music critic Jim Derogatis. Pre-registration is required to purchase tickets. Both can be done online. Tickets are $8 for Northwestern University students, faculty, and staff; $11 for the general public. Limit 2 per person. For more information call 847-491-4000.

Christa Donner Artist Talk

threewalls gallery (119 N. Peoria #2d) hosts a talk with artist Christa Donner, whose Re:Production show is currently on exhibit. The event starts at 6pm. Free.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's Evil Olive. Showcasing established and emerging artists of various disciplines, the event promises finished works for sale at prices set by the artists -- in other words, it's a great place to cop original pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the guest artist's "panel", practicing artists and illustrators are encouraged to drop-in with their own materials, make some art and hang their work on the wall too. 6-10pm. 1551 W. Division St.

Belmont Station Art Selection @ Ann Sather

If you use the Belmont Red and Brown line stop, you might just like to get in on the selection of public art for the new station. 6pm at Ann Sather, 909 W. Belmont.

Shout @ Sonotheque

Part of Theaster Gates' Temple Exercises exhibition at the MCA (a series of exercises that occur both at the MCA and around the city), DJ Madrid, Eric Williams, Sadie Woods and Sean Alvarez host a music listening and dance party that fuses global sounds with music inspired by the Black Church. At Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 8pm-2am. Admission is $5 (21 and over only). Call (312) 226-7600 for more information.

Ars Scientia: Exploring Environmentalism @ Cultural Center

Science Chicago presents this panel of scientists and artists discussing the emerging eco-art movement, at 6pm in the Garland Room. Free, but space is limited, so arrive early. 77 E Randolph St. For more information, visit the website.

Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts

Devoted to the local hip-hop scene, Chicago Public Radio's Winter Block Party features sets by Chicago DJs Itch13 and Issues, a gallery exhibition of local artists, a live mural painting by acclaimed graffiti artist Revise CMW, and an open-mic session featuring hip-hop performance artist Idris Goodwin and author Kevin Coval. The evening closes with a special ticketed event featuring Bomb the Suburbs-author, graffiti artist, activist, and Chicago native, William "Upski" Wimsatt. FREE for day event / $15 for William Wimsatt talk. Victory Gardens Biograph Theater (2433 N Lincoln Ave), (773) 871-3000. For more information, go here.

Opening: William Conger: Paintings 1958-2008 @ Cultural Center

This exhibit traces the 50-year career of the Chicago abstract painter, and features large-scale, vibrantly colorful works. In the Exhibit Hall through 29 March. 78 E Washington, free. For more information, visit the website or call 312-744-6630.

subVariant Relaunch ft. Insideout (Berlin) [Clink], Gianna Hardt, Hernan Sanchez and Liz Revision

Liz McLean Knight aka Liz Revision will relaunch her techno / idm label, subVariant with a party featuring Insideout, head of the Berlin-based minimal techno label Clink Recordings. subVariant will distribute a limited edition numbered set of artist-created buttons to the first 50 guests from DezignJK, noted local party flyer designer. They'll also debut "Loop Points," an event-based loyalty card based on the techno 4/4 time signature. Tonight @ Vision (632 N Dearborn St.) 10pm - 4am. 21+. For more information go to their subVariant website.

After Dark: Return of the Impressionists @ The Art Institute

Toast the newly renovated Impressionist galleries with live DJs and performances by theater ensemble Collaboraction at After Dark: Return of the Impressionists at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave. tonight from 6-10pm. An official afterparty follows. Tickets are $15 for members and students and $20 for the public. Available online or by phone at 312-575-8000, or at any Art Institute admission counter.

Yousuf Karsh: Regarding Heroes @ The Art Institute of Chicago

His black-and-white photographs captured the icons of the 20th century, including Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway, Audrey Hepburn, Andy Warhol and Winston Churchill. On the centenary of his birth, The Art Institute of Chicago presents Yousuf Karsh: Regarding Heroes. Opening today, the exhibit traces Karsh's artistic development and reassesses his place in the history of photography. Included with museum admission. 111 S. Michigan Ave. Call 312-629-6635 or click here for more information.

Anti Gravity Surprise: "Tell Us What You Think" @ Cultural Center

The public art collaborative Anti Gravity Surprise discusses its new workbook, Tell Us What You Think, which invites participation and collaboration by artists and non-artists alike. Also, members of four local collectives discuss Chicago projects. Free, at 6pm in the 1st floor Garland Room.78 E Washington. For more information, visit the website or call 312-744-6630.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day @ Chicago History Museum

Commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with dramatic readings and gospel performances at the Chicago History Museum. 1601 N. Clark St. Admission is FREE. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.

"Who Is SOLVE?" Show @ Country Club

Country Club Gallery (1100 N. Damen) hosts a show opening tonight, 6pm-10pm, concentrating on the work of slain Chicago artist and graphic designer Brendan Scanlon. Scanlon, who was murdered last June in the Logan Square area, was a prolific street artist under the name SOLVE. For more information visit the website or call (773) 368-4045.

X-102 Discovers the Rings of Saturn @ Chicago Cultural Center

A visual and sound graphic exposé of one of the Universe's most beautiful and mysterious planet, Saturn. Musician and director Jeff Mills will be on hand to discuss the project after the screening.

Film Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4FCadv991o

Friday, January 16, 7:00 PM, FREE!
Claudia Cassidy Theater
Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60602
Info: 312-744-6630

www.ChicagoCulturalCenter.org

Sticks Opening Reception @ Intuit

Sticks opens tonight at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee. The exhibition features self-taught artists who have created pieces out of, well, sticks: telephone poles, toothpicks, logs, matchsticks, branches... The reception is from 5-8pm with beer provided from Chicago's Half Acre Beer Company. The event is free but donations are always accepted.

Unofficial Notes for a People's Atlas of Chicago Day

Join AREA Chicago in Wicker Park today for two events related to its Notes for a
People's Atlas of Chicago
project. The first is a collaboration with Around the
Coyote Festival which involves an exhibition of all of our Peoples Atlas of Chicago maps at the Wicker Park Field House (1425 N Damen Ave, Chicago) from 5-8pm. Then head down the street from 8pm-10pm to STOP SMILING Magazine's Storefront (1371 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL) where there will be a celebration of Experimental Geography, a book about mapping and art that features AREA's Peoples Atlas project. AREA's People's Atlas work is partially supported by a grant from the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts. Contact areachicago@gmail.com for more information.

Exquisite City, City of Cardboard @ Chicago Tourism Center

If you missed this extraordinary exhibit late last year at the Viaduct, you luckily have until mid-March to check it out. Free, 72 E Randolph. For more information, visit the website.

Polaroids: Mapplethorpe @ Block Museum of Art

Polaroids: Mapplethorpe opens today at the Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston. The exhibition showcases photographer Robert Mapplethorpe's early instant camera work, including self-portraits, figure studies, still lifes, and portraits. Admission to the museum is free, donations are accepted. Call 847-491-4000 for more information or visit the exhibition website.

Comics Writing Workshop @ Evanston Public Library

Russell Lissau (The Batman Strikes & Hope: New Orleans) leads a fun, hands-on workshop about the craft of comic books. Learn about scripting, penciling, and the other stages of making a comic, and practice on a real page from an actual book. Books will be for sale afterward. For middle & high school students and adults. 2-3:30pm, Community Meeting Room, 1703 Orrington Ave. Register online or call 847-448-8621 or 8625.

No Pants! CTA Ride

Improv Everywhere's No Pants Subway Ride, originated in New York, has gone global, and Chicago's ride starts at the Granville Red Line stop today at noon. Show up a little early -- with pants on, but bring a bag or something to store your pants in -- and await further details. Free. More info on Facebook.

Little Friends of Printmaking @ Threadless Gallery

The Little Friends of Printmaking debut their exhibit "Tough Luck" at Threadless Gallery, 3011 N. Broadway, tonight from 7pm to 9pm. The show will also see the debut of the Milwaukee printmaking duo's Threadless Select t-shirt design. Free.

Christa Donner at ThreeWalls

Multimedia artist Christa Donner shows her latest body of work--exploring fertility, biology, and identity--at ThreeWalls. Re:Production features multiple wall installations, an interview-based zine, a film collaboration with biologist Andrew Yang, and works on paper. The opening reception begins at 6pm. and goes until 9.

ThreeWalls / 119 N. Peoria, 2D

Loopy Yarns Stitch n' Bitch

Let's Knit Together (yeah, yeah, yeah!)
Loopy Yarns
5:30-9:00pm

All are invited to open knitting and crocheting (including expert help!) at the fantastic Loopy Yarns located at 47 West Polk Street in the South Loop. Take a breather before your rocking weekend and hang out amongst beautiful colors and amazing fellow knitters and crocheters. Call 312-583-YARN (9276) or visit Loopy Yarns for more details.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (also known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.

Dimension + Typography: A Survey of Letterforms in Space and Time

Does dimensional typography have any implications beyond simply being a formal variation on traditional typographic form, and does current work hint at what these implications might be? This opening explores this question through interdisciplinary work in print, video, sculpture, and installation by an international group of artists, designers, and programmers.

I space Gallery // 230 West Superior, 2nd Floor

For more information go here.

MCA Stitch n' Bitch featuring artist Karen Reimer

Tuesday, January 6, 2009, 5:30-8pm
220 E. Chicago Avenue
Puck's Café
Free

This event presented by the Museum of Contemporary Art invites knitters and crochet hookers to bring their needles and yarn to knit and exchange techniques and stories, with guest artist Karen Reimer. Reimer makes craft-based conceptual art and has recently exhibited at moniquemeloche gallery in Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Craft in Portland, and Wallspace in New York. Needle and hooking workers of all levels are welcome to participate in this fresh adaptation of the traditional sewing circle. Call the MCA @ (312) 397-4010 for additional details.

"Connecting With the Creative Process" Workshop

Take an afternoon to open the window to your creative side. In this three hour workshop, from 1pm to 4pm, allows you to explore the Open Studio Project process to combine uninhibited art-making with thoughtful writing and reflection. No prior art or writing experience necessary; a variety of drawing and painting materials will be used. $65 for non-members, $55 for Open Studio Project members. The studio is located at 903 Sherman Ave. in Evanston

Jo Dery @ Quimby's Bookstore

Rhode Island book and paper artist (and short filmmaker) Jo Dery visits Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave. from 7-8pm, for an evening of storytelling, live radio plays and short animations. Dery's newest book, Quietly Sure - Like the Keeper of a Great Secret will be available for purchase. Call (773) 342-0910 for more information or visit the Quimby's website.

Saturday Craft Time @ Lozano Library

Saturday Craft Time

Lozano Public Library
1805 S. Loomis Street

Saturday, December 27, 2008
Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Ages 6-9 years

Come all ye festive adults and children as we make jingle bells, snowmen, and other wintery crafts to take home. Call the library @ 312-746-4329 for more details.

Helvetica @ Chicago Cultural Center

See Gary Hustwit's smart, funny documentary considering the cultural importance of typography and a particular font for free! 2pm, 78 E Washington St. For more information call 312-744-6630.

Artists at Work Forum: How to Turn Your Art Into a Career

Join local artists (photographer Dawoud Bey, public artist Juan Angel Chavez, painter and professor Joyce Owens, and artist, poet, and actor Tony Fitzpatrick) as they share their secrets to success and missteps on the way to becoming successful artists. FREE at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E Washington St). 6-7:30pm. 312-744-6630.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

Atomic Sketch returns to Evil Olive, 1551 W. Division St., from 6pm to 10pm tonight with a special holiday edition of the sketch group. You'll have the opportunity to watch artists Ryan P. Young, Kyle Francis Harter, Blütt, Ethan Hutchinson, Joyce Vallejo, David Johnson, Frederick Kobrick, Czr Prz, Sara Renae Jones, Brett Whitacre and Anjali Bahl draw live, and purchase sketches for just $50 apiece. Other artists are welcome to drop in and sell work as space allows. In addition, Blütt and Czr Prz will hang a show of their artwork in the bar.

Gallery Talk: Portraits of Power @ Art Institute

Kings, counts, captains, and other historic bosses are the stars of today's lecture-:this guided tour focuses on portraiture and its use throughout history to memorialize the rich and powerful. 12-12:45pm. Free with museum admission. The Art Institute of Chicago (111 S Michigan Ave), 312-443-3600. This tour meets in Gallery 100.

Kramers Ergot Book Tour @ Chicago Comics

Twelve talented comic book creators (including Chris Ware, Kevin Huizenga, Anders Nilsen and more) come together tonight to promote the release of the 7th volume of the influential and acclaimed comic anthology, Kramers Ergot. 3244 N. Clark St., 5pm-9pm. Libations will be served. Signing schedule and more information here.

Chicago Printmakers Collaborative 19th Annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Open House

Find your holiday gifts and enjoy generous hot cider at this open house of prints large and small. 11am - 7pm, 4642 N. Western Ave. For more information call 773-293-2070.

Inspired Art Works Exhibition & Holiday Sale

Cafe Too and ArtWorks present Inspired Art Works, an exhibition featuring the work of Uptown artists. The show opens today with a reception from 4:00 to 7:00 at Cafe Too (4715 N. Sheridan) and runs through February 28.

Renegade Craft Fair @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse

The 3rd Annual Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale takes place in the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk, today from 11am to 7pm.

DEPART-ment @ AV-aerie

The local craft show DEPART-ment continues its annual holiday show today at the AV-aerie (2000 W. Fulton, at Damen). The show runs today from 11am to 5pm. For more information please see the DEPART-ment website.

Chicago Printmakers Collaborative 19th Annual International Small Print Show and Holiday Open House

Find your holiday gifts and enjoy generous hot cider at this open house of prints large and small. Today and tomorrow, 11am - 7pm, 4642 N. Western Ave. For more information call 773-293-2070.

Renegade Craft Fair @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse

The 3rd Annual Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale takes place in the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk, today and tomorrow from 11am-7pm. Goodie Bags available for the first 100 shoppers each day, DJs throughout the weekend, food by Tipsycake + Treat, and a special performance by Mucca Pazza on Saturday afternoon! Free to attend!

Cabaret Biciclet

No doubt that the Cabaret Biciclet is "first of its kind." The "bicycle art/erotica show combined w/ glam rock burlesque" promises to show us what bicycle erotica means to local artists, while further titillating us with "a cosmic naked starship as Burlesque performers strut and dazzle to the sounds of glam rock." Doors open at 8:30pm at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. 21+

Weapons of Mass Construction @ A.Okay Official

A.Okay Official is super-duper proud to present the fantastical, character-centric collected works of Project Detonate and Matthew Ryan Sharp. Reception tonight, 6pm-10pm. Show runs until December 29th. 3270 N. Clark St. Free!

Architectural Toys

This opening at ArchiTech explores toys from the nineteenth and mid-twentieth centuries, including Froebel blocks, Lincoln Logs, and Tinkertoys. 12-6pm. 730 N. Franklin, Suite 200. Runs until 12/27. For more information contact ArchitechGallery@earthlink.net.

Lillstreet Holiday Open House

Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., hosts a holiday open house tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Enjoy refreshments and live entertainment while you shop, and check out demonstrations and workshops in the center's 19 classrooms and 50-plus artists' studios. Ceramic purchases can be combined with seasonal treats from First Slice Pie Café and a portion of the proceeds will help fight hunger in the community. Free, all ages.

Parts and Labor Collective 2nd Annual Small Print Sale

Alternative art collective Parts and Labor Collective present their 2nd Annual Small Print Sale. Reception tonight from 7pm-midnight, open house tomorrow from 1-5pm. Prints, works on paper, photography, all under $100. 3144 W Carroll - 3rd Floor. For more information call 773-407-7279.

DIY Trunk Show VI: I See Craft People!

The 6th annual DIY Trunk Show takes over Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk) today from 10am to 5pm. The Chicago Craft Mafia are showcasing the works of over 100 Chicago-area vendors, showing off a few area non-profit organizations who support their clients who craft, fueling shoppers with great foodstuffs, and even keeping shoppers relaxed with chair massages. Whether you're making a list and checking it twice, or searching for a truly original item that none of your friends will have, or just fighting the consumer-fueled megalocomplex, the DIY Trunk Show has what you need. And if you're looking for a sneak-peek of Handmade Nation, you can find that, too.

Chip Kidd & Saul Ferris @ Chicago Comics

Chip Kidd and Saul Ferris, co-authors of the new book Bat-Manga! The Secret History of Batman in Japan appear tonight at Chicago Comics (3244 N. Clark) for a signing and presentation from 6 to 8pm. The event is free and open to the public.

Elevator Repair Service's Gatz

Fans of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby will flock to the Museum of Contemporary Art for a theatrical interpretation like none other. Gatz is a completely unabridged retelling of the the classic story that lasts an entire 7 1/2 hours. If you're in for a play that long, tickets are $40, or $32 for MCA members. 3pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 220 E. Chicago Avenue, call 312-397-4010 for more details.

Bookslut reading @ Hopleaf

Bookslut presents the latest in their monthly reading series. Tonight's scheduled author: French cartoonist David B, author of Epileptic Fit. The reading happens tonight at 7:30pm at Hopleaf (5148 N. Clark Street) in their upstairs space. The event is free and open to the public.

Kate Boggiano Trunk Show @ Florodora

Stop by Florodora's Loop location (330 S Dearborn inside the Mondanock Building) today to check out local designer Kate Boggiano's trunk show. The Chicago native will be showcasing her line from noon until 6pm. Call 312-212-8860 or visit their website for more details.

Zines: The Art of Intervention

Part the MCA's Saturday Short series, Zines: The Art of Intervention explores intersections between art and language in this self publishing-oriented workshop. With the guidance of artist Anne Elizabeth Moore, participants create, publish, and distribute their own small books based on the structure of Jenny Holzer's work. 1-4pm. 220 E. Chicago, tickets $45, $40 for members- for more information call 312-397-4010. Sign up with a friend and receive $5 off the price of the class!

Tura! Tura! Tura! @ Tattoo Factory Gallery

If you didn't get enough of cult icon Tura Satana at last nights screening of Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill! You are in luck, Tura! Tura! Tura! Opens tonight at the Tattoo Factory Gallery and Tura Satana will be there in person! This group art show organized by Chicago artist Mitch O'Connell, features artist such as Glenn Barr, Lisa Petrucci, Shag, Molly Crabapple and many more all celebrating the film icon. Profits from sales of posters and personal items donated by Tura herself will go to Apna Ghar, a domestic violence shelter and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The event stars at 7pm and runs to 11pm and is free. The art show continues through Jan. 26.

Tattoo Factory Gallery: 4443 N. Broadway. (773) 989-4077

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's Evil Olive. The Halloween-themed evening of live art-making showcases established and emerging artists of various disciplines and offers finished works for sale at prices set by the artists. It's a great place to test your costume and cop original pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the panel, practicing artists and illustrators are welcome to drop-in with their own materials to sketch/paint on the sidelines and hang their work on the wall too. 6-9 p.m. 1551 W. Division St.

Windy City Comicon 2008

Join vendors, exhibitors and a host of special guests (including acclaimed local artists Gene Ha, Jeffrey Brown, Alex Wald and more) for Chicago's first annual Windy City Comicon. Saturday, October 25th, 10 AM-6PM, The Center on Halsted at 3656 N Halsted. Tickets $5.

U of C Humanities Day

The University of Chicago celebrates literature, language, religion, history, philosophy, music, art and drama in their 30th annual Humanities Day. Professor of English Jacqueline Goldsby will present the keynote address, "A Salon for the Masses: Black Chicago's Book Review and Lecture Forum, 1933-53." Programs include "Beowulf and its World," "What is Civic Knowledge?" "Who was Socrates and What Did He Do?" and much more. The entire day is free of charge, running from 9:30am-4:30pm at various buildings on the U of C campus. Reservations are recommended to ensure that you have a seat at the session of your choice. Call 773-702-7423 for more information.

Disruptions: The Political in Art Now @ MCA Chicago

In conjunction with the Jenny Holzer exhibit, which opens today, MCA Chicago and the University of Chicago are sponsoring this day of conversations about the intersection of art and politics, which runs from 11am to 6pm in the MCA Theater. Tickets range from $10 to $15 and are available from the MCA website. 11am-6pm, 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website, or call 312-280-2660.

Opening: Jenny Holzer @ MCA Chicago

"The most significant exhibition of Jenny Holzer's work...in nearly two decades" begins today and runs through February 1. Holzer has been making text-based artwork since the 1970s. The current exhibit, PROTECT PROTECT, uses excerpts harvested from declassified government documents. 220 E Chicago. For more information, call 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Found Footage Festival @ Lakeshore Theater

3175 N. Broadway
8:00 PM
$12.00

The Found Footage Festival is a live comedy event and screening featuring odd and hilarious clips from VHS videotapes gathered from thrift stores, garage sales, warehouses, estate sales, and dumpsters throughout the country. It has its roots in the found art movement made famous by artists such as Marcel Duchamp and the Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players, but maintains an irreverent sense of humor with its source material. Curators Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher host each screening in-person and provide their unique observations and commentary on these found video obscurities.

Burger King Studios presents Have It Your Way Tees

Local and acclaimed artists Charlie Owens, Angel D'Amico, veggiesomething, Blütt and Risk contribute artwork elements that can be remixed and silk screened live as one-of-a-kind shirts, and display wall mural/installations based on these designs. Complimentary drinks and appetizers. Music by E6 and Matt Rowan. FREE. 1904 W. North Ave, 7pm-10pm. Additional Hours October 25 and 26, 11am-7pm. For artist biographies and more information visit the website.

Yes We Carve BYOP Event

Yes We Carve, a pro-Obama pumpkin carving project is holding a Chicago pumpkin carving event tonight, 10/21 from 7pm-9pm in the Hyde Park neighborhood (location TBA after attendance is gauged UPDATE: Location for tonight's event is 5501 S. Cornell, No. 20). Email Kristin Greer Love (Kristin Greer Love{at}gmail{dot}com) for details and to RSVP. Download stencils or create your own. Just don't forget to bring your pumpkin.

Alfonso Iannelli Lecture by Sam Guard @ CCC

Sam Guard's discussion "Preserving the Prairie Spirit: The design studio of Alfonso Iannelli" will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center's Claudia Cassidy Theater, 77 E. Randolph Street. Free. More information is available at the Landmarks Illinois Preservation Snapshots Lectures page.

Open House @ Splat Flats

The 28 resident artists of the The Splat Flats display their work during their 4th Annual Open House on Saturday, October 11 from 4 to 10 p.m. 1815-25 W. Division, above Miller Lumber.

SAIC BareWalls 2008 @ Sullivan Galleries

The School of the Art Institute Alumni Society holds its annual BareWalls fundraiser tonight in the new Sullivan Galleries at the Historic Sullivan Center (aka, the Carson Pirie Scott Building), 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor, tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Come see dozens of SAIC alums paint live at the event, bid on artwork in a silent auction, and meet guest artist Robert Lostutter (class of '63). Tickets are $100; VIP tickets are $250, and include a pre-event tour of the new galleries and early entry to the event. Proceeds benefit the Alumni Scholarship fund.

"We Need Each Other" @ Oh No! Doom

Oh No! Doom, 2955 W. Lyndale, celebrates the opening of "We Need Each Other," an "epic artist collaboration" composed of 80 painted panels by some two dozen artists. Additional art will also be shown. DJ Clockwerk and Trey spin, beverages and apps will be served, and art, toys and tees will be available for purchase. Tonight from 6pm to 10pm. See the flyer here.

"Deceptive Design" Opening

"Deceptive Design: Experiments in Furniture," an exhibit of innovative furniture design, holds an opening reception in the Michigan Ave Galleries of the Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington, from 6pm to 8pm tonight. Meet the designers and explore their creations. Free.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Andersonville Arts Weekend continues today with a wide range of exhibits, events and performances from 10am into the evening, including the Puppet Bike, dance classes at the Joel Hall Dance Center, theater at Pegasus Players and the Neo-Futurarium, and gallery shows. Admission ranges from free to cheap -- see the site for details.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Andersonville Arts Weekend continues today with a wide range of exhibits, events and performances from 10am to late night, including paintings at the Edgewater Historical Society, dance lessons at the Joel Hall Dance Center, and burlesque at Mary's Attic. Admission ranges from free to cheap -- see the site for details.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Andersonville Arts Weekend kicks off tonight from 6pm to 10pm with the "night of 100 pARTies," ranging from art exhibits at local shops and galleries to performances by the Pegasus Players, Theater Ooblek and the Neo-Futurists. The galleries are free; the plays are cheap -- see the site for details.

2008 Preservation Celebration @ The Marmon Grand

Join Preservation Chicago at their 2008 "Preservation Celebration" in The Marmon Grand, located in the Motor Row Historic District, 2230 S. Michigan Ave. Features include music by the Erwin Helfer Trio, a silent auction, Motor Row mini tours and an open bar. 6pm-9pm Tickets are $75 in advance (at website or via mail), $95 at the door. Complimentary valet parking will be provided. For more information, visit the website, call 312-337-5500 or email.

Change Today Change Tomorrow @ within(REASON)

As part of the 37th Annual Pilson East Artist's Open House (September 26-28), Change Today, Change Tomorrow will feature media ranging from collage and graffiti to digital video and fabric arts. Proceeds from the event will be donated to arts programs in Pilsen area schools. Opening tonight at 6:00 PM. within(REASON) Gallery: 1932 S. Halsted #408 (773) 562-7464

Tierra Muhammad Opening @ House of Culture

Artist Tierra Muhammad debuts new work at the House of Culture, 618 E. 71st St., with an opening reception at 2pm. Free.

East Side Mural Dedication

Check out a new mural by artist Noel Morales that pays homage to the East Side's history, present and future. The mural will be unveiled at 10 a.m. at 100th Street and Ewing Avenue (where three trans-American railways cross under the Chicago Skyway and where Lake Michigan stretches to reach Calumet River). In addition to the artist, Alderman John Pope and the community volunteers that saw the project to completion, treats from Eli's Cheesecake will be on hand.

James Marshall (Dalek) Opening Reception @ Phaiz

Phaiz Gallery,673 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrates the opening of its new exhibit of one-of-a-kind art by James Marshall, aka Dalek, with a reception tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Backfield fashion and Rosemary Lee vests will also be shown. Free.

1st Annual Chicago Poster Biennial in Grant Park

The 1st Chicago International Poster Biennial will be open to the public starting 9/15 in Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Grant Park. Returning poster art to its natural environs (outdoors), this will be a unique opportunity to view the work of the international group of finalists for this exciting competition. Bicentennial Plaza is located just east of Columbus Drive, across the Gehry-designed bridge. The exhibit runs thru 10/15 during normal park hours. FREE!

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The 4th annual version of this art fair features over 140 juried artists, as well as musical entertainment. It takes place along Broadway between Belmont and Roscoe on Saturday 9/13 from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday 9/14 from 10 am to 5 pm.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The 4th annual version of this art fair features over 140 juried artists, as well as musical entertainment. It takes place along Broadway between Belmont and Roscoe on Saturday 9/13 from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday 9/14 from 10 am to 5 pm.

Wax Burner Show @ A.Okay Official

A.Okay Official, 3270 N. Clark, presents Wax Burner, a group show of custom-painted prayer candles. The opening reception is tonight from 6pm to 11pm. DJ sets by Maker, Intel and Sonryze. Refreshments will be served.

Scrappers Movie Benefit @ The AV-aerie

Scrappers is a feature-length documentary that tells the stories of three Chicago men who comb the city streets in search for people's discarded-yet-valuable resources, such as iron and aluminum. Still in production, the film is the focus of this evening's benefit from 6-10pm at The AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton. In addition to scenes from the film, there will be video installations, words from the filmmakers and subjects, and musical performances by Scrappers composer Frank Rosaly, the Jonathan Crawford/Frank Rosaly/Michael Zerang percussion trio and the Friction Brothers. There is a $10 suggested donation. RSVP required to scrapmovie@gmail.com.

South Union Arts Closing Show

South Union Arts is closing its doors, but before it goes, it's having "a corn roast," featuring works by Kaelyn Garcia & Jocelyn Stotz, Catherine Bouzide & Bill Friedman, Catie Olson, Anni Holm, Annie Heckman, Ben Funke, Michael Una and Viki Fowler. Among the works is Chicago's first in-ground corn maze. Show runs from 3pm to 7pm. Free.

Free DIY Comix & Zine Making Demo @ Blick

World got you down? Put your angst, heartache, worry about the economy in your very own zine! A free workshop happens from 1-4pm at the Dick Blick Art Materials store in Evanston this Saturday, 9/6. They're located at 1755 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL near the Davis Street Purple line stop.

Young June Lew Opening @ Andrew Bae Gallery

Andrew Bae Gallery celebrates the opening of an exhibition by artist Young June Lew tonight from 5pm to 8pm at the gallery, 300 W. Superior St. The show runs through Oct. 18.

Threadless Chicago Printmakers Gallery Opening Party

Join Threadless for the opening night party of their Chicago Printmakers Gallery (3011 N. Broadway), featuring artwork by Mat Daly, the Post Family, Delicious, Sonnenzimmer, and Dan Grzeca.

Friday, 9/5 from 7pm-9pm (show runs through 10/1).

African Festival for the Arts

The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.

World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: New Orleans Revival
4:45pm: Voices
6:30pm: Diblo Dibala

Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: Trinity
4:30pm: Muntu
6:15pm: Nicholas Payton
7:45pm: Kool & The Gang

Hip-Hop stage
5pm: Black Sheep
5:45pm: Rhymefest
7pm: Brand Nubian

African Festival for the Arts

The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.

World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: Odies Williams
4:45pm: Roland Brown
6:30pm: New Orleans Revival

Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: DJ music
4:30pm: Mulgrew Miller
6:15pm: Les Nubians
7:45pm: Rachelle Farrell

Hip-Hop stage
5:30pm: Keith Murray
7pm: Nice and Smooth

Fiesta Boricua in Humboldt Park

Humboldt Park's 15th Annual Fiesta Boricua -- the Midwest's largest Ethnic Music Festival -- will take place on Division between Paseo Boricua's giant metal flags. Three stages will feature top talents in Salsa, Plena, Reggaeton and House plus over 100 food, arts and crafts vendors. The all-day event will also include a health fair, skateboard demo area, art gallery and cultural performances. Everyone's invited to come celebrate Chicago's Puerto Rican community! Division Street (between Western & Mozart). 11AM to 8PM.

African Festival for the Arts

The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.

World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: Tribute to Motown
4:45pm: Youssoupha Sidibe
6:30pm: Ray Martinez

Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: DJ music
4:30pm: Odies Williams
6:15pm: Raices Habaneras
7:45pm: New Orleans Revival

Hip-Hop stage
5:30pm: Special Ed
6:15pm: The Lady of Rage
7pm: Big Daddy Kane

Summer FUNdraiser @ Country Club Chicago

Fourteen local artists have created silkscreen prints inspired by the joy of summer for the Summer FUNdraiser tonight from 6pm to 10pm at Country Club Chicago, 1100 N. Damen Ave. Artists include Billy Baumann, Ann Benjamin, Briana Bolger, Sam Conant, Rachel Cortner, Silas Dilworth, Luke Franz, Ryan Halvorsen, Matt Kubis, Myra Mazzei, Mark McGinnis, Ryan Sievert and John Soliminet. Proceeds to benefit Friends of Pritzker. Call 773-960-1811 for more info.

African Festival for the Arts

The African Festival for the Arts kicks off today at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. The festival runs Friday through Monday; today's musical lineup is below.

World Music Stage
3pm: DJ Music
3:30pm: SPIRIT
4:45: siji/DJ Music
6:30: Fertile Ground

Dee Parmer Stage
2:30pm: DJ Music
3:30pm DJ Music
4:30pm: SPIRIT
6:15pm: Antoine
7:45pm: Al Hudson & One Way

Summer FUNdraiser @ Country Club Chicago

Fourteen local artists have created silkscreen prints inspired by the joy of summer for the Summer FUNdraiser tonight from 6pm to 10pm at Country Club Chicago, 1100 N. Damen Ave. Artists include Billy Baumann, Ann Benjamin, Briana Bolger, Sam Conant, Rachel Cortner, Silas Dilworth, Luke Franz, Ryan Halvorsen, Matt Kubis, Myra Mazzei, Mark McGinnis, Ryan Sievert and John Soliminet. Proceeds to benefit Friends of Pritzker. Call 773-960-1811 for more info.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (GAAF) is a free, weekend-long event that features artists, open studios and live entertainment on three outdoor stages. Experience art, theater, music, as well as food and drink, on the cobblestone streets of the Glenwood Avenue Arts District in Chicago's historic Rogers Park neighborhood. Kickoff events Friday, 8/22, 6-10pm., 6900 block of North Glenwood Ave. Festival: Saturday and Sunday, 8/23-24, 12 noon to 8pm, 6900-7000 North Glenwood Avenue and the 1400 block of Morse Avenue. Details.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (GAAF) is a free, weekend-long event that features artists, open studios and live entertainment on three outdoor stages. Experience art, theater, music, as well as food and drink, on the cobblestone streets of the Glenwood Avenue Arts District in Chicago’s historic Rogers Park neighborhood. Kickoff events Friday, 8/22, 6–10pm., 6900 block of North Glenwood Ave. Festival: Saturday and Sunday, 8/23-24, 12 noon to 8pm, 6900-7000 North Glenwood Avenue and the 1400 block of Morse Avenue. Details.

Jersey Joe Rime Opening @ Phaiz

Phaiz Gallery, 673 N. Milwaukee, celebrates the opening of Jersey Joe Rime's "Layers" with a reception tonight from 7pm to 11pm.

Ethnic Arts Bazaar

The Illinois Artisan's Shop presents the Ethnic Arts Bazaar, featuring the work of a dozen Illinois artists. Yesterday and today from 10am to 3:30pm in the James R. Thompson Center Atrium, 100 W. Randolph St.

Ethnic Arts Bazaar

The Illinois Artisan's Shop presents the Ethnic Arts Bazaar, featuring the work of a dozen Illinois artists. Today and tomorrow from 10am to 3:30pm in the James R. Thompson Center Atrium, 100 W. Randolph St.

Gold Coast/River North Art Fair

The Gold Coast Art Fair, which bills itself as the "Granddaddy" of American art festivals, concludes today. More than 300 juried artists will be participating in the 51st annual event. Live glassblowing demos, a Dick Blick art tent with interactive projects, and Art Fest Bingo provide lots of activities for the kids. Live music and local food vendors will also be on hand.


10 am - 6 pm along LaSalle, at the intersections of Erie, Huron, and Superior. Free admission. More information at the fair website.

Bicycle Film Festival Block Party!

The 8th Annual Bicycle Film Festival is in town through Sunday and they've got a heck of a lot planned. Today, block party!

"The Bicycle Film Festival celebrates the bicycle. We are into all styles of bikes and biking. If you can name it-Tall Bike Jousting, Track Bikes, BMX, Alleycats, Critical Mass, Bike Polo, Cycling to Recumbents- we've probably either ridden or screened it. What better way to celebrate these lifestyles than through art, film, music and performance? We bring together all aspects of bicycling together to advocate its ability to transport us in many ways. Ultimately the Fest is about having a good time."

The complete program runs from the 6th till the 10th for five days of stellar two wheeled fun, movies, a scavenger hunt and a block party.

Check the details here, order pre-tickets and come on out!

Gold Coast/River North Art Fair

Billing itself as the "Granddaddy" of American art festivals, the Gold Coast Art Fair begins its second day today. More than 300 juried artists will be participating in the 51st annual event. Live glassblowing demos, a Dick Blick art tent with interactive projects, and Art Fest Bingo provide lots of activities for the kids. Live music and local food vendors will also be on hand.


10 am - 6 pm along LaSalle, at the intersections of Erie, Huron, and Superior. Free admission. More information at the fair website.

Bicycle Film Festival 2008

The 8th Annual Bicycle Film Festival is in town through Sunday and they've got a heck of a lot planned. Today, films and afterparty!

"The Bicycle Film Festival celebrates the bicycle. We are into all styles of bikes and biking. If you can name it-Tall Bike Jousting, Track Bikes, BMX, Alleycats, Critical Mass, Bike Polo, Cycling to Recumbents- we've probably either ridden or screened it. What better way to celebrate these lifestyles than through art, film, music and performance? We bring together all aspects of bicycling together to advocate its ability to transport us in many ways. Ultimately the Fest is about having a good time."

The complete program runs from the 6th till the 10th for five days of stellar two wheeled fun, movies, a scavenger hunt and a block party.

Check the details here, order pre-tickets and come on out!

Tribute: An Art and Music Event @ Manhattans Bar

A one night art and music event where artists, musicians, and patrons pay tribute to famous people that may or may not have had an impact in their lives. Eighteen artists and four musical acts were asked to produce a piece of work that either 1. Was their own piece in a famous artist's style, or 2. Was a famous artist's piece in their own style. The organizers encourage everyone who attends to dress as someone famous. Artists include Joe Markevicius, Shelley Hermes, Corey Lake, Laura Terek, Jose Arceo, Andrea Zamudio, Kim Watt, Jason Shields, Michael Senise, Alisa Duda, David Bozic, Lauri Apple, Rex Flodstrom, Katie Cooper, Jennifer Ho, Clarence Lindsey, Selena Vallejo, and Michelle Emerson. The bands include Melissa Genova, Graham Smith, GUN, and The Hoosier Daggers. Organized by FarragoUnderground, which is dedicated to bringing emerging and established artists to the common public in alternative places (bars, basements, cafes, etc) for one night themed art and music events. 8 p.m. 415 S. Dearborn St. For more info, visit the Website.

Joey D @ Rotofugi Gallery

Rotofugi Gallery (1955 W. Chicago Ave.) hosts a showing of new work by Joey D today from 6-9 PM, including some artwork only available at this opening. Born out of iridescent, kinetic street-art and strange dreams, Joey D's work is whimsical, befuddling, and almost always smile-inducing.

Gold Coast/River North Art Fair

Billing itself as the "Granddaddy" of American art festivals, the Gold Coast Art Fair kicks off today in River North. More than 300 juried artists will be participating in the 51st annual event. Live glassblowing demos, a Dick Blick art tent with interactive projects, and Art Fest Bingo provide lots of activities for the kids. Live music and local food vendors will also be on hand.


12-6 pm along LaSalle, at the intersections of Erie, Huron, and Superior. Free admission. More information at the fair website.

Bicycle Film Festival 2008

The 8th Annual Bicycle Film Festival is in town through Sunday and they've got a heck of a lot planned. Today, films and afterparty!

"The Bicycle Film Festival celebrates the bicycle. We are into all styles of bikes and biking. If you can name it-Tall Bike Jousting, Track Bikes, BMX, Alleycats, Critical Mass, Bike Polo, Cycling to Recumbents- we've probably either ridden or screened it. What better way to celebrate these lifestyles than through art, film, music and performance? We bring together all aspects of bicycling together to advocate its ability to transport us in many ways. Ultimately the Fest is about having a good time."

The complete program runs from the 6th till the 10th for five days of stellar two wheeled fun, movies, a scavenger hunt and a block party.

Check the details here, order pre-tickets and come on out!

Phoebe Fisher and Kime Buzzelli Opening @ Heaven Gallery

Works by these two talented artists. 7 p.m. 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor. For images of featured works, visit the Website.

Bicycle Film Festival 2008

The 8th Annual Bicycle Film Festival is in town through Sunday and they've got a heck of a lot planned. Today, the BACK TO BICYCLES CITYWIDE SCAVENGER HUNT! Details here.

"The Bicycle Film Festival celebrates the bicycle. We are into all styles of bikes and biking. If you can name it-Tall Bike Jousting, Track Bikes, BMX, Alleycats, Critical Mass, Bike Polo, Cycling to Recumbents- we've probably either ridden or screened it. What better way to celebrate these lifestyles than through art, film, music and performance? We bring together all aspects of bicycling together to advocate its ability to transport us in many ways. Ultimately the Fest is about having a good time."

The complete program runs from the 6th till the 10th for five days of stellar two wheeled fun, movies, a scavenger hunt and a block party.

Check the details here, order pre-tickets and come on out!

Artists' Reception for Current Exhibitions @ HPAC

Join the Hyde Park Art Center for an artists'’ reception for a number of current shows. Free. 3-5 p.m. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Ave. 773-324-5520. For more info, visit the Website.

Death + Extinction: A Polaroid Exhibition

Come to the The Chicago Art Department, located at 1837 South Halsted, to see a collaboration between New York and Chicago artists memorializing the soon-to-be-departed mediumof Polaroid film. Opening night runs from 6:00 pm-10:00 pm, with the overall exhibition spanning through September 1st. Call 773-852-1717 for more information.

SOLVE Tribute Show @ Oh No! Doom

Oh No! Doom, 2955 W. Lyndale, hosts a show in tribute to murdered street artist SOLVE from 7pm to 10pm tonight. Works by more than a dozen street artists will be featured in a "sticker silent auction" to benefit the Madison East Art Department on SOLVE's behalf. and Dee-Eye-Zee's new album, Say Uncle will be available, with 50 percent of the proceeds going to the cause.

FRAMED: A Group Exhibition @ 32nd & Urban

Brings together 59 artists, designers, photographers, illustrators, graphic designers, painters, collage makers, muralists, installation-based artists, street artists, printmakers, graffiti artists, comic book artists, and other art makers. Artists are given wooden frames of various sizes for - 4x6, 5x7, 8x10 and 11x15- over 150 frames presented. These frames are simple in design. Each artist is encouraged to create their piece(s) with two ground rules in mind: 1) leave the wooden frame alone and 2) produce work with the idea of presenting ‘great, affordable art’. It is through this exhibit that the gallery owners and art makers hope to attract collectors of all salary ranges. Creating an environment free of pretension this exhibit celebrates the uniqueness of each artist talent while promoting their art work as sellable and desirable items for all types of individuals in all types of settings. Curated by Peter Kepha, artist and principal gallery curator. 6-11 p.m. (Official Gallery after-party at Subterranean, 2011 W. North Avenue, 9:30pm-2am. Featuring sounds by Deejay Pickel, DJ Trew and DJ Intel. Presented by OkayWithUs. Discounted admission with flyer or password ‘FRAMED’. $4 Stoli cocktails, Free Miller High Life 9:30pm-10:30pm.) Through Aug. 30. 3201 South Halsted. For more info, visit the Website.

Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive

Once a month, local art triumvirate, BCD Collaborative, hosts the Atomic Sketch Event at Wicker Park's Evil Olive, which is an evening of live art-making by both established and emerging artists of various disciplines. Throughout the evening, finished works are placed on the sale wall at prices set by the artists. Typically, artists who often have work selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars will be selling for less than 100 dollars. It's a great way for experienced collectors or first-time buyers to procure unique pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the panel, artists of all stripes are welcome to "drop-in" and bring materials to sketch/paint on the sidelines and hang their work on the wall to try and sell as well. 6-9 p.m. 1551 W. Division St.

Portraits from the Mind: The Works of William Utermohlen, 1955-2000 @ Chicago Cultural Center

Held in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease (ICAD), this dramatic and powerful art exhibit chronicles an artist’s life and his journey before and after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. “Portraits From the Mind” will be the largest, most comprehensive retrospective of the work of William Utermohlen to date, featuring pieces from 1955 to 2000. The exhibit includes a series of self-portraits, which poignantly document the course of his disease from his diagnosis in 1995 to 2000. The exhibit is supported by Myriad Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Through Aug. 3. 78 E. Washington St. For more info, visit the Website.

Goat Island Summer School Symposium @ SAIC's 012 Performance Space

This July features the 10th and final Goat Island Summer School hosted by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This year’s session concludes with a free public one-day symposium. Stephen Bottoms (University of Leeds, UK) presents the keynote on The Avant-garde and the Midwest. Panelists Carol Becker (Columbia University), Abhay Ghiara, Marin Blazevic (University of Zagreb, Croatia), and Judd Morrissey (SAIC) address the subject Community without Unity; and panelists/Summer School alumni Rebecca Groves, Judith Leemann, and Jorge Lucero address the statement What I have learned cannot be generalized, but it can be shared. Goat Island members present a collaborative lecture, and artist and Summer School alumna Sara Schnadt presents a performative installation. Lunch is provided. In the evening, a program of work by artists and Summer School alumni features video by Dani Leventhal, and live performances by Deva Eveland, and Brian Torrey Scott and friends. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 280 S. Columbus Dr. For more information, contact John Rich at goatislandperformance@gmail.com.

Tumbleweeds Art Project

Build geodesic structures out of unwanted CDs at Rooms Gallery, 645 W. 18th St., from 11am to 3pm. More details here.

Interactive Circus Event @ 2nd Nature Yoga

Celebrate the grand opening of 2nd Nature Yoga (1750 N. Kingsbury) on July 19th, 2008 with:

"Daytime workshops for all ages, Creative Learning Environments, Entertainment, Delicious Food and Family Fun glide into an early evening Sunset Yoga Session, followed by; Death Defying Circus Artisty, Spectacular Performances, Acrobatic Wonders, Live Art & Craft, World Class D.J. sets, Live Music Performances, Mind Body & Spirit Healers, Catered Food & Drink, Visionary Arts, Face & Body Painting, Fire Arts, Photo Shoots and more. All in an immaculate venue offering a Chill Space, Sacred Space, Open Air Space, Dance Floors, and Plenty of Room to Explore with a River View."

Tickets range from $15 - $40. More information can be found here.

Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe Exhibit @ Chicago Cultural Center

Life as a Legend visually celebrates the many sides of this 1950s glamour goddess and immortal legend by exploring both the celebrity of, and the woman behind, one of the world's most recognizable icons. This exhibition presents a lively dialogue between art and media representation, and explores the range of artists' individual engagement with the Marilyn persona and how that impacted their art. It captures the spark, sex appeal and sensation that was Marilyn through the art of Andy Warhol, Allen Jones, Peter Blake, Richard Avedon, Bert Stein, Henri Cartier-Breson, Mel Ramos, and many others using a broad range of media. Through Sept. 21. 78 E. Washington. For more info, visit the Website.

Beth Reitmeyer Opening Reception and Summer Show @ Zg Gallery

Reitmeyer's artwork strives to be physical manifestation of the cherished yet unseen parts of our relationships: hopes, dreams, wishes, and love. It highlights the seasons and rituals of life such as gift giving, holidays, and time spent making memories in specific rooms of one’s home. Installations and paintings. Through Aug. 30. Also displaying new works by Zg artists. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 300 W. Superior St. For more info, visit the Website.

Daniel Danger @ Rotofugi

New works by this talented poster artist. Daniel will be in town for the opening, so come by and say howdy. 6-9 p.m. 1953-55 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Talking With Your Mouth Full: New Language for Socially Engaged Art @ ThreeWalls

Small Publications Book Fair with local publications by The Green Lantern Press, InCUBATE, AREA Chicago, Lumpen, and others. InCUBATE hosts Sunday Soup. The more art slides between convention and social action, sculpture and public performance, art and the everyday, the more complicated it is to talk about. As socially engaged art rides the boundaries of multiple subjects simultaneously, historians, critics, and other artists must develop multifaceted responses. To discuss projects that include a broad and unfolding web of topics such as art, racial politics, and gender is to speak in many voices all at the same time. The aim of Talking with Your Mouth Full is to contribute language to the critical framework for these projects in an effort to refine discussions around socially engaged art. Through tomorrow. 1-5 p.m. 119 N. Peoria, #2D. For more info, visit the Website.

Walkup workshops @ Sacred Art

Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village boutique that offers handmade art by local artists, is holding a weekend of art workshops this weekend. Today you can learn how to do block printing, and tomorrow you have a choice: block printing or window painting. The workshops run from 11:00 to 3:00 both days. Space is limited for these workshops, so reservations are recommended. Call the store at (773) 404-8790 to reserve your spot.

Ruth Ann Borum @ Medicine Park

Borum is from Norman, OK and paints freakish-looking medusa-like ladies with four eyes, among other things. This year she's channeling the inner totem -- come see what that looks like! Through Aug. 3. 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Lumpen 17th Anniversary Action

Lumpen turns 17 with a party at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., tonight from 7pm to 2am. Pick up issue #109, the 1968-2008 redux issue, and check out an installation of all the past issues and related projects, as well as 1968 ephemera and posters. Plus videos, karaoke, performances by Pure Magical Love, Fought and a secret special guest, and more. $5 donation requested.

10 Years of Magical Thinking @ within(Reason)

Mixed media, video and installation exploring the beautiful, curious, mystifying elements of the aftermath of a death. 6-10 p.m. 1932 S Halsted St. #408. Through Aug. 1. For more info, visit the Website.

Jay Byrnes: "Go With The Flow" Opening @ Threadless

Showcasing his experience as both graphic artist and illustrator, Byrnes’ art focuses on urban life, blending graffiti-like characters with elements of popular culture, and using color and collage. "The street, people watching, experiences as I travel and just letting my mind wander” is what artist J. Byrnes says inspired the work in his one-man show. “My work reflects my surroundings. I can get ideas just walking through my neighborhood, or riding on the el train. And like with people you meet and places you’ve been, there are many layers underneath the surface if you choose to look deeper.” 7-9 p.m. 3011 N. Broadway. For more info, visit the Website.

Mathias Spider Schergen & Rena V Schergen @ Phaiz

Chroma Designs and backstroke fashion. 7-11 p.m. 673 N. Milwaukee. For more info, visit the Website.

Louder Than A Bomb All-Stars @ Young Chicago Authors

Chicago's performance poetry future is headed to the National Youth Poetry Slam in Washington, D.C., but before they go they're holding a book release party and showcase at Young Chicago Authors, 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7:30 p.m. Their chapbook, Big Booty Poetry, will be on sale for $5

John Joe @ Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

Joe is one of four contemporary Native artists featured in the Mitchell Museum’s new “Transfusion” exhibit, on view through September 4. All are in their mid-30s and are of mixed Native and European or Asian heritage. 1 p.m. 3001 Central St., Evanston. For more info, visit the Website.

Chicago Antique Market

Find cool stuff at the Chicago Antique Market, an indoor and outdoor European-style urban antique market, hosted at the Plumber's Union Hall at 1340 W. Washington St in the Randolph Street Market District. The event includes 150 dealers of "furnishings, housewares, artifacts, vintage clothing, jewelry, sterling, porcelain, lighting, ephemera, toys and collectibles galore," according to organizers. There's also a Vinyl Swap Meet, a Fancy Food Market and the Global Goods Bazaar. Today, the market is open 9am to 4pm. It costs $10 to get in, good for both days; student admission is half price with ID, and kids under 12 get in free. Plus: You can pre-pay online for only $8 (link is located at the bottom of the site's home page).

Chicago Antique Market

Find cool stuff at the Chicago Antique Market, an indoor and outdoor European-style urban antique market, hosted at the Plumber's Union Hall at 1340 W. Washington St in the Randolph Street Market District. The event includes 150 dealers of "furnishings, housewares, artifacts, vintage clothing, jewelry, sterling, porcelain, lighting, ephemera, toys and collectibles galore," according to organizers. There's also a Vinyl Swap Meet, a Fancy Food Market and the Global Goods Bazaar. Today, the market is open 10am to 5pm (outdoors) and 11am to 5pm (indoors). It costs $10 to get in, good for both days; student admission is half price with ID, and kids under 12 get in free. Plus: You can pre-pay online for only $8 (link is located at the bottom of the site's home page).

Tabu, The Sadistic Art of Pleasure @ Ageless Arts Tattoo

A look at erotic art and sadistic art, including an anime-style Red Light District series: portraits of people after they've been in car accidents. The show features over eight artists with varying styles. Beverages and a DJ to get in the mood! Hosted by Cecilia Vasquez and Charles Lopez. Through July 31. 7-11 p.m. 2410 S. Kedzie. For more info, visit the Website.

Tattoo Expo @ Navy Pier

The "world's largest piercing, body art and tattoo expo". Thousands of tourists from Iowa. Think of the photographic possibilities. The culture clash will take place at Navy Pier beginning tomorrow, 2 p.m. at the Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. and last until Sunday.

Mapping: Cartographies of Learning Opening Reception @ C33 Gallery

As part of the City of Chicago's Festival of Maps, this exhibition showcases multi-media arts installations from Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education and Columbia College Chicago's Center for Community Arts Partnerships. It is a culmination of curricular and conceptual explorations of map-making from students in nine Chicago Public Schools, representing student artists from kindergarten to high school. The installations, directed by professional artists and teachers, feature compelling social and cultural histories as well as visionary images of students' sense of place in their neighborhoods and the world. Through Aug. 8. 5-7 p.m. Columbia College, 33 East Congress. For more info, call 312-870-6140.

"Freeze" Opening @ Second Bedroom

"Freeze," an installation by artist Adam Farcus, is the first show at Second Bedroom, a new art space within Apartment 4R at 3216 Morgan St., Apt. 4R. The exhibitions opens tonight with a reception from 7pm to 11pm, and runs through July 20th.

Old Town Art Fair

The 59th annual Old Town Art Fair continues into its second day and features live music, garden and historic tours of the neighborhood, a children's corner, and a food court to accompany the works of the more than 200 artists selected for the event. More information about the fair available in Slowdown and at the fair's website.

LumbArt @ Splat Flats

The Splat Flats artist studios holds its annual LumbArt show in and around the Miller Lumber Yard, 1815-25 W Division St., today from 3pm to 10pm. Check out art, poetry, music and film throughout the afternoon and evening; full lineup here. Free, but donation requested. (Enter on Honore.)

Old Town Art Fair

Boasting that it's the oldest and most prestigious outdoor event of its kind, the Old Town Art Fair begins its 59th showing today. More than 200 artists have been selected to present work in almost every medium one could think of. In addition to the art the neighborhood itself is on display with a garden walk and historic tour that give you the opportunity to see portions of Old Town not normally open to the public. Live music, a food court, and a children's corner help make it an all-day destination.


From 10 am to 6 pm a few blocks north of North Avenue (detailed PDF map here). The $7 suggested donation benefits Old Town schools, youth groups, and preservation initiatives. The fair website has more information, including a live music schedule and a preview of the artists scheduled to attend.

Ray Pride Opening Reception @ Medicine Park

The photographs in "Enter Dream" anatomize the geography of Chicago night, forbidding and delicious as these streets might be to a runaway child. Things left behind. Escape routes. Mute facades. Fearful horizons. Landscapes both bright and dark. The creatures that populate threatening places and moments familiar to ghosts, insomniacs and those who fear sleep and dreams to come. Pride's work has been exhibited in group shows at the Cultural Center and Zolla-Lieberman Gallery and site-specific solo shows at Rainbo Club and Atomix Café. His portraits have been published in Newcity and Cinema Scope, among other places, and he contributes photo essays to Sharkforum and Variety. DJ Lapple Pietunes (aka Lauri Apple) spins. Through July 9. 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

War Garden @ Grant Park

The world premiere of a new play from NeighborSpace and Walkabout Theater Company will not be held in a theater in the ordinary sense, but one — actually several — befitting its topic. War Garden, an ensemble production exploring the history of “patriotic agriculture,” opens Friday in Grant Park, at Columbus and Congress. The play will then tour community gardens throughout Chicago over the summer. $10 suggested donation. 5:00 p.m. Call (773) 527-0341 or click here for more information.

Second Friday @ Fine Arts Building

The galleries and studios in the Fine Arts Building,410 S. Michigan Ave., will be open tonight from 4:30pm to 9:30pm. Come check out fresh art, impromptu musical performances and even a little theater. Free.

Square Foot Exhibition At Galaxie

What would happen if a bunch of artists each took a 1 foot by 1 foot canvas, created their art and then put them all together in one big display? Come find out tonight at the Galaxie's Second Annual Square Footage Exhibition. Last year over a 150 works were on display. Galaxie is located near Belmont and Western at 2603 W. Barry Ave. Confimed artist included Brent Kado. (a Gapersblock contributor)

57th Street Art Fair

The 57th Street Art Fair will run all weekend long from Saturday June 7th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday June 8th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 57th Street and Kenwood Avenue. It is the oldest juried art fair in the Midwest and will showcase 250 artists. For more information, call 773-493-3247 or visit their website.

Screenprinters Show @ Letterform Space

Letterform Space, 4043 N. Ravenswood #104, celebrates the opening of "The Sound: Silkscreen Prints & Other Works" tonight from 7pm to midnight. The show features works by Alana Bailey, Delicious Design League, Dan Grzeca, Keith Herzik, Kathleen Judge, Gina Kelly, Johnny Sampson, Superkonductor and Steve Walters. Miles Raymer of the Reader DJs. Free.

Release Party for AREA Chicago @ Paseo Prairie Garden

AREA Chicago #6: City As Lab will be released during a party today from 2pm-4pm at the Paseo Prairie Garden, directly adjacent to the south exit of the Logan Square L exit at the intersection of Kedzie/Milwaukee at the West End of Logan Blvd. Free.

Opening: David Schalliol @ Cafe Latakia

Stop by Cafe Latakia, 3204 N. Broadway, from 6:30pm-9:30pm tonight to check out photographs by David Schalliol. Selections from Isolated Building Studies, Five Versus Five and other series will be displayed. Free. (It's hot, so you'll probably enjoy that Cafe Latakia sells ice cream too.)

Opening: Gretel Garcia and Frank Wick

"Crazy," a showing of works by Gretel Garcia and Frank Wick, opens tonight at antena, 1765 S. Laflin St., with a reception from 6pm to 10pm. The pieces will be on display through July 5. Call 773-344-1940 for more info.

Banick & Holubow Photography @ Darkroom

The Chicago Photography Center - Traveling Gallery presents photography by Laura Banick and Eric Holubow, at the Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago Ave. The show opens with a reception tonight at 8pm. The show will be on display through July 27.

Streets of Chicago Fashion Show @ Victor Hotel

Sine Qua Salons is sponsoring a fashion show fundraiser for Preservation Chicago. Jeff Millbern, Anna Fong, Wolfbait & B.Girls will show clothing alongside a design by Steven Rosengard of "Project Runway." The event is in the Victor Hotel, 311 N Sangamon. The cocktail reception starts at 6:30pm with the hair and fashion show beginning at 8pm. Tickets are $25 and available online. All proceeds will benefit Preservation Chicago.

ArtWorks open house

ArtWorks, an arts organization using the arts to strengthen the community, is hosting an open house this evening at the ArtWorks gallery (4654 N. Racine) from 5:00 to 7:00. There will be refreshments, live music by singers/songwriters Bruce Moon & Jim Cubit, a handmade pinata that attendees will be encourages to take a swipe at, refreshments, and afforable art for visitors to purchase. Admission to the event is free. Please see the ArtWorks Website for more information.

CAC Paint-a-Thon

The Chicago Artists' Coalition is holding a paint-a-thon today, with more than a dozen artists painting from 1pm to 4pm to raise money for the organization. A live auction will be held from 4pm to 6pm -- go bid on your favorite piece!

Tre Femme Reception @ Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Art

Visually eclectic art exhibition showcasing the works of three nationally recognized artists: Audry Cramblit, Nancy Pirri, and Ted Preuss. This collection represents three varied perspectives on the female form, featuring innovative techniques in figurative sculpture, ceramic print methods, and platinum photography. A percentage of sales will be donated to Union League Civic & Arts Foundation. Martinis from 6:30-8:30 sponsored by Qino One Vodka. 6-10 p.m. Open house Sat., May 31 from 2-7 p.m. 1012 N. Dearborn. For more info, call 312-642-4400.

Art Smart @ LUMA

LUMA will be hosting another opportunity for young Chicago professionals to mingle, munch and show off their classy art-lovin' side. Artsmart, a networking event that "focuses on fun and fine-living" (and that isn't as much of a meat market as the MCA's First Fridays) will feature its newest exhibition, Manifest Destiny / Manifest Responsibility: Environmentalism and the Art of the American Landscape, a collection of works which reflect on our constantly changing surroundings and our place within the environment. 5:30 to 8:00 p.m at LUMA. To RSVP or for more information, contact luma@luc.edu.

Milan Furniture Fair Talk @ DWR Evanston

Helen Maria Nugent, co-owner of Haelo Design and associate professor of design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), will be at Design Within Reach Evanston, 1710 Sherman Ave., tonight from 6pm to 8pm for a visual presentation of highlights from the 2008 Milan Furniture Fair, held April 16-21. The Milan Fair is the premier event for designers, both emerging and established, to showcase the latest innovations in form, function and material uses. The presentation will focus on what's new and notable in the fields of lighting and furniture design, and SAIC student work featured during the fair will be on display. Refreshments will be served. Free, but RSVP to evanston@dwr.com or 847-424-0881 by May 21.

Wicker Park Gallery Tour @ Around the Coyote

Led by Executive Director Allison Stites. Free tour of some of the best emerging art galleries in the historic Wicker Park neighborhood including Around the Coyote Gallery, Green Lantern, AllRise Gallery and Heaven Gallery. Apartment galleries, galleries in the historic Flatiron Arts Building, and other funky spaces. 12:30 p.m. Free. 1935 1/2 W. North Ave. For advanced registration and for more information, go here.

The Upset Opening Night Art Show @ Co-Prosperity Sphere

The Upset is a collective of artists and photographers from Chicago and New York who are having a multi-media show at Co-Prosperity Sphere from May 16 - May 25. The show emphasizes the work of underexposed artists working with photography, painting, illustration, street art and video installation. The opening night party will feature a vintage clothing sale, a magazine release and other performances. 6pm. 3219 South Morgan St. 773-837-0145.

Flawed: New Work by Joan Hiller @ Medicine Park

Hiller explores the examination of topically cheery but inwardly dysfunctional mother-daughter relationships (after being bombarded by cheerful Mother’s Day commercial imagery in the wake of her own psychological struggles with the lasting effects of a mother’s illness, this seemed apropos) and inappropriately thought-out but acted-upon plans for fulfilling one’s heart and reconciling one’s identity. The show features works of businessmen, put-together and lustful women, mothers and daughters, and egomaniacal Vaudevillian superstar Eva Tanquay, whom the artist recently became enamored with via writer Jody Rosen’s paper at the 2008 EMP Pop Conference. This is a darker batch of work for Hiller, as she turns her thoughts to herself, although portraiture of others is the visual focus. Sparkling, witty conversation and copious amounts of booze! 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago. For more info, visit the Website.

Manifest

Columbia College's Manifest Urban Arts Festival brings together a wealth of visual and performing arts spread across 14 galleries and four stages, all in one day. The event includes an artwalk and sale, music on four stages, screenings, readings, live radio, Web casts, the TICTOC Performance Art Festival, the Transmission art car exhibition, Spectacle Fortuna's parade of creativity, and a free concert by OK Go. Get the full schedule here.

Portfolio Show @ SAIC

Fans of good design should make a beeline for the annual student portfolio review showcasing the work of SAIC design graduate students and undergraduate seniors. It's right after work this Thursday, from 5 to 8 pm, at the Sullivan Center, 12th Floor, SAIC. For more information, call (312) 629-6820 or email careers[at]saic[dot]edu.

Inaside Chicago Dance @ Ruth Page Center

Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).

Looptopia!

Round two of the nation's first dusk until dawn artistic celebration gets started at 5pm on Friday, May 2nd night and keeps going through Saturday morning at a host of venues throughout the Loop.

For more information check out the Looptopia website.

Christa Donner: ExtraSensory @ Museum of Surgical Science

Artist Christa Donner exhibits zines, photographs, works on paper, and drawing-based installation in a show called "ExtraSensory" at the International Museum of Surgical Science. The show opens tonight with a reception from 5–8 p.m. and runs through July 18. The IMSS is located at 1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. (inner drive).

Inaside Chicago Dance @ Ruth Page Center

Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).

DEPART-ment April Craft Fair @ AV-aerie

If you're shopping for mom or just want to treat yourself with some of the best indie crafts to be had in Chicago, head out to DEPART-ment this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the AV-aerie. This art space hosts these quarterly arts collectives where you can leisurely browse thru organized tables of everything from handmade purses, plush, clothes and cards. Check out this month's vendors and grab your coat! The April DEPART-ment runs Friday 7-11pm, Sat. and Sun. 11am-5pm at 2000 W. Fulton (at Damen), #310. Cash only (ATM on site).

DEPART-ment April Craft Fair @ AV-aerie

If you're shopping for mom or just want to treat yourself with some of the best indie crafts to be had in Chicago, head out to DEPART-ment this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the AV-aerie. This art space hosts these quarterly arts collectives where you can leisurely browse thru organized tables of everything from handmade purses, plush, clothes and cards. Check out this month's vendors and grab your coat! The April DEPART-ment runs Friday 7-11pm, Sat. and Sun. 11am-5pm at 2000 W. Fulton (at Damen), #310. Cash only (ATM on site).

Lethargy Art Walk

Neighboring artists Derek Erdman and Jim Newberry open up their studios at 2068 N. Leavitt today from 11am to 6pm for "Lethargy Art Walk." Check out art, sip beverages and generally enjoy a lazy day. Free.

Mitch O'Connell show @ Tattoo Factory

Awesome local artist Mitch O'Connell has a show happening tonight and tomorrow at the Tattoo Factory (4443 N. Broadway) to promote his new book Mich O'Connell's Tattos. The artist will be there tonight and tomorrow selling the artwork at the show. The times for both nights are 7:00 PM to midnight, and there will be plenty of excitement and prizes and surprises and all sorts of other things you won't want to miss. Be there!

DEPART-ment April Craft Fair @ AV-aerie

If you're shopping for mom or just want to treat yourself with some of the best indie crafts to be had in Chicago, head out to DEPART-ment this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the AV-aerie. This art space hosts these quarterly arts collectives where you can leisurely browse thru organized tables of everything from handmade purses, plush, clothes and cards. Check out this month's vendors and grab your coat! The April DEPART-ment runs Friday 7-11pm, Sat. and Sun. 11am-5pm at 2000 W. Fulton (at Damen), #310. Cash only (ATM on site).

Judy Chicago @ Women & Children First

Acclaimed feminist artist Judy Chicago comes to Women & Children First to celebrate the release of her new book The Dinner Party: From Creation to Preservation. The book focuses on Chicago's exhibit of the same name, now on permanent display in Brooklyn. Free at 7:30pm, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

stART @ Newd

This April 18, used and new clothing store/art gallery Newd brings us work by local street artists Nice-One and Tiny. These two artists focus on characters to a lively effect. Join the artists from 7 pm to 11 pm to check out (and buy!) their work, plus enjoy a new documentary, "Bomb It," about graffiti. Newd is located at 1917 W. Division Ave, near Damen.

Artist Talk: Catherine Sullivan @ Cochrane-Woods Art Center

Get an artist’s perspective on the adaptation process as Catherine Sullivan discusses her new work Triangle of Need and introduces the complex strategies she employs to incorporate a wide range of source materials into her video installations. Co-sponsored by the Open Practice Committee of the Department of Visual Arts at the University of Chicago and the Smart Museum of Art. 5:30 p.m. Room 157.

Creative Chicago Expo: Space/Housing/Business/Community

This free day-long fair features free workshops and info on resources, services and spaces for Chicago's art community -- including dance, music, theater, fashion, design, visual art, writing/spoken word, film and new media. "Artists are small businesses, and the expo is a place you can find out what you need for your business to thrive." 10am to 4pm today at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. Call 312-744-6630 or click here for more info.

Spring Gala @ Hyde Park Art Center

Honoring Charles Benton. 5020 S. Cornell Ave. For more information or for tickets, please contact Christina Jensen at cjensen [at] hydeparkart [dot] org or (773) 324-5520 ×1021.

Artreach at Lillstreet Benefit

Artreach at Lillstreet provides low-cost, high-quality arts education and public arts programs to those in need. Equipped with a "Clay Mobile," this group of devoted artists drives around Chicagoland to schools, nursing homes and hospitals, offering affordable hands-on creative workshops and programs. This is its first-ever benefit, "Get Your Smock Out!" A fun, artsy evening with workshops & demos, music, food, a silent auction and drinks. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance/$40 door; all funds benefit Artreach. For tickets, call 773-907-0842 or email skye@artreachatlillstreet.org.

Mo(ve)ment @ Peter Jones Gallery

A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. 8 p.m. 1806 West Cuyler, 2nd Floor. For more info, visit the Website. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online.

Mo(ve)ment @ Peter Jones Gallery

A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. Through April 2. 8 p.m. 1806 West Cuyler, 2nd Floor. For more info, visit the Website. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online.

Mo(ve)ment @ Links Hall

A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. 8 p.m. 3435 N. Sheffield. Visit the Website.

International Vintage Poster Fair @ Chicago Cultural Center

Exhibitors from the U.S., Canada, China, Israel and Western Europe offer thousands of original vintage posters for sale dated from the 1890s-1980s. Styles include classic Art Nouveau Belle Epoque images and increasingly popular Art Deco and Modernism posters. Posters offered will include food and liquor advertisements, WWI and WWII posters, film, travel and transportation, and sporting events. $15 for a weekend ticket. 11am-6pm. 77 E. Randolph. For more info, call 800-856-8069 or visit the Website.

International Vintage Poster Fair @ Chicago Cultural Center

Exhibitors from the U.S., Canada, China, Israel and Western Europe offer thousands of original vintage posters for sale dated from the 1890s-1980s. Styles include classic Art Nouveau Belle Epoque images and increasingly popular Art Deco and Modernism posters. Posters offered will include food and liquor advertisements, WWI and WWII posters, film, travel and transportation, and sporting events. $15 for a weekend ticket. Through March 30. 10am-7pm. 77 E. Randolph. For more info, call 800-856-8069 or visit the Website.

Fleurotica @ The Garfield Conservatory

Looking for a breath of spring in a decidedly icky week? The Garfield Park Conservatory (300 N Central Park Ave) will host Fleurotica, a floral fashion show this Friday from 7pm until 10pm. Students from the Millinery Department of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago will show off their botanical creations to celebrate the conservatory’s 100th anniversary. Tickets are $100 for general admission and $150 for runway seating. Reservations are required and can be placed at 773-638-1766, extension 13.

Graphic Thought Facility: Resourceful Design @ Art Institute

he exhibition—curated by Zoë Ryan, the museum’s Neville Bryan Curator of Design—showcases the work of the eponymous London-based graphic design studio, Graphic Thought Facility (GTF). With an installation commissioned by the Art Institute from GTF, this is the firm’s first solo museum exhibition, on view through August 17 in Gallery 24. 111 S. Michigan Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

re:create @ Caro d'Offay Gallery

A night of creative fun, food and drink. Chicago artist Adelheid Mers presents a live mapping event of the Resource Center's programs, impact, and possibilities. Simultaneously, artists in neighborhood storefronts recreate a Mystery object from found materials, as part of Caro d'Offay's ongoing Textaport Projects. $35/person, benefiting Resource Center's Recycling, Composting, Creative Reuse, and City Farm Programs. 6–9:30 p.m. 2204 W. North Ave. Register online by March 22.

Thodos Dance @ LUMA

Chicago company Thodos Dance will perform tonight at LUMA as part of an on-going series of dances inspired by Andy Warhol's Silver Clouds, currently on display. In addition to tonight's FREE show, Thodos will reprise their improvisational performance on Saturday (Saturday's show requires $6 museum admission). Tonight's performance begins at 7pm at LUMA (820 N. Michigan Ave). Both admission and performance are free.

Music And Art At The Orphanage

It's Easter and if you need to get away from the family come to the Orphanage. See art by Sharon Parment, Laura Dobson and Brent Kado as well as music from Ballistic Edna, Kelroy, Athens and Poverty Tax. The food changes every week so hopefully an Easter theme hits the buffet table. The Orphanage is at 643 W. 31st St.

Jen Rosenthal Reception @ Chicago Art Department

Rosenthal's meticulous and repetitive drawings are rooted in a lifelong practice of margin doodles and napkin sketches. Partly a meditative exercise, her recent work searches to explore deep into the psyche, looking to decipher the hidden messages in dreams, peel back the layers of the unconscious mind, and find balance in a wobbly world. Through April 6 (closing reception Fri., April 4 from 7 to 10 p.m.) Free. 6-10 p.m. 1837 S. Halsted. For more info, visit the Website.

Daniel Knox, Khuper Tum, Kado And More At The Orphanage

Daniel Knox is one of Chicago's hottest musicians. (and a David Lynch fav) Having just come off a high profile and critically acclaimed show in London (for Daman Albarn) and rumored to be working with other well-known musicians, Knox's haunting piano sound is getting noticed. Joining Knox for this evening of music, art and delicious food (vegan goodies) are bluegrass players Henhouse Prowlers, eclectic jazzsters Khupera Tum and Second Life ambient star Kourosh Dini as well as artists Kado, Laura Hobson and Sharon Parment. The Orphanage is located in Bridgeport at 643 W. 31st St. This event will be filmed for an upcoming short movie on Chicago art and music.

7 on 8 Group Art Show @ Cafe Latakia

Seven Chicago artists -- six men and one woman -- display their work ... on International Women's Day! Featuring photography by David Szpunar, Kevin Eatinger and David Schalliol, paintings by Matthew Morgan, Lauri Apple, and John Geletka and screen prints by Phineas X. Jones. Eclectic music mix and birthday vibes by DJ Lapple Pietunes. 7 p.m.-midnight. 3204 N. Broadway. For more info, visit the Website.

WPBGA Second Saturday Gallery Walk @ Wicker Park/Bucktown

The WPBGA is an organization of galleries in the Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhood (roughly defined with the southern border at Division, the northern border at Fullerton, the western border at Western, and the eastern border at the Chicago River). 6-10 p.m. For more info, visit the Website.

On Naji al-Ali Reception @ Around the Coyote

Twenty years after the assassination of Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali, the issues he sought to reveal continue to rage unchecked by the lack of a fair and peaceful agreement between the Israeli and Palestinian people. Curator Haseeb Ahmed and Around the Coyote Gallery present this major exhibition of politically oriented Palestinian artwork from some of the most influential contemporary artists from the Middle East. A selection of al-Ali's works from their original publications spanning two decades of bloody conflict between Israel and Palestine will be presented along with the contemporary work of New York/Ramallah based artist Emily Jacir and United Arab Emirates based artist Tarek al-Ghoussein. Through May 3. 6-10 p.m. 1935 1/2 W. North Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Works in Progress: Kristina Sparks @ MCA

Local artist Sparks shares her creative process in the museum space, creates new work and interacts with visitors. Sparks is a graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and her fashions draw upon a wide variety of influences, including her own background in dance. Her signature work blurs the line between art and fashion. 6-8 p.m. Free. 220 E. Chicago. For more info, visit the Website.

Interstitial Arts Festival @ i^3 Hypermedia

The first quadrennial (international | independent | interstitial) festival, focusing on artists who are accelerating evolution by mixing genre, format and medium, defying categorization and drawing from or creating personal/social/political "in-betweens." Programming includes performance, installation, video, print, multi-media, inter-media, and digital works from around the globe. Participating artists include Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo, Qubo Gas, The Vegetable Orchestra of Vienna, NEEN, Johanna Vaude, and Jad Fair. 1-7 p.m. Suggested donation $10 at the door. For more infor regarding the festival and to view a full list of participating artists, visit the i^3 Website.

Interstitial Arts Festival @ i^3 Hypermedia

The first quadrennial (international | independent | interstitial) festival, focusing on artists who are accelerating evolution by mixing genre, format and medium, defying categorization and drawing from or creating personal/social/political "in-betweens." Programming includes performance, installation, video, print, multi-media, inter-media, and digital works from around the globe. Participating artists include Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo, Qubo Gas, The Vegetable Orchestra of Vienna, NEEN, Johanna Vaude, and Jad Fair. 1-11 p.m. Through March 2. Suggested donation $10 at the door. For more info regarding the festival and to view a full list of participating artists, visit the i^3 Website.

Print and Poster Show @ Chicago Printmakers Collaborative

Featuring really affordable hand-made stuff by cool printmakers such as Amos Kennedy and Jay Ryan, and prints selected from the CPC flat files. Sales of Amos Kennedy's letterpress posters benefit a documentary film being produced about his life and art called "Proceed and Be Bold." 5-7 p.m. Free. 4642 N. Western Ave. RSVP
by Feb. 25 at the STA Website.

Ed Ruscha and Photography @ Art Institute

Ruscha is perhaps best known as a seminal American pop and conceptual artist. His iconic paintings of words, American landscapes, and vernacular architecture speak of his deep affinity for the commonplace. But the medium of photography has always been a source of inspiration and discovery. This eye-opening exhibition, on view through June 1 in Galleries 1 and 2, features Ruscha's signature photographic books and dozens of previously unseen original prints. It provides the most comprehensive view of how photography functioned for this leading American artist. Organized in conjunction with the exhibition, a free day-long symposium today includes a talk by the artist, a conversation with Ruscha, cultural critic Dave Hickey and exhibition curator Sylvia Wolf, and lectures by scholars Ken Allan and Thomas Crow. Free. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Rubloff Auditorium. 111 S. Michigan Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Interstitial Arts Festival @ i^3 Hypermedia

The first quadrennial (international | independent | interstitial) festival, focusing on artists who are accelerating evolution by mixing genre, format and medium, defying categorization and drawing from or creating personal/social/political "in-betweens." Programming includes performance, installation, video, print, multi-media, inter-media, and digital works from around the globe. Participating artists include Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo, Qubo Gas, The Vegetable Orchestra of Vienna, NEEN, Johanna Vaude, and Jad Fair. Through March 2. 7-11 p.m. Suggested donation $10 at the door. For more info regarding the festival and to view a full list of participating artists, visit the Website.

Ezara Hoffman and Justin Witte Opening @ Contemporary Art Workshop

Abstract painting. Working observationally in and outside of the studio, Hoffman abstractly represents moments encountered and objects perceived from her experience. Witte is interested in how active individual visual experiences can be created through the partial obfuscation or distortion of seemingly recognizable imagery. 5:30-9 p.m. 542 West Grant Place. For more info, visit the Website.

Off-Register @ AV-aerie

Formerly Chicago-based Foundation Gallery brings its group show Off-Register, a collection of screenprints by international artists and graphic designers, to the AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton, tonight through March 15. Tonight's opening reception features music from The Gutterbutter DJs and Never Enough Hope. $5 admission, doors open at 7pm.

I^3 Festival of Interstitial Art

Check out interstitial art at the I^3 Festival, put on by I^3 Productions, 11 W. Illinois, 4th Floor. Participating artists include Mark Mothersbaugh, Qubo Gas, Neen, Lusid, Johanna Vaude, and Jad Fair. The festival runs today through March 2; check the site for hours.

Mr. Imagination Fundraising Event @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art hosts a fund-raiser February 28 featuring a silent auction, videos and slide shows of Mr. Imagination’s work with food and wine generously donated by Swim Café
and Barefoot Wine. Silent auction end at 7 p.m., with all proceeds to benefit the Mr. Imagination relief fund. 5-8 p.m. 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more info, contact Heather Holbus at 312-243-9088 or at heather@art.org.

Edward Hopper Lecture @ The Art Institute

Edward Hopper's Nighthawks is discussed in a free lecture at the Art Institute from Judith Barter, Field-McCormick Chair of American Art. Free. 6pm. 111 S. Michigan Ave. 312-443-3600.

Art Against AIDS Benefit

The annual Art Against AIDS live and silent art auction benefits Heartland Alliance's network of supportive HIV/AIDS services. At River East Art Center, 435 E. Illinois, from 6 to 9 pm. Tickets are $100 per person.

Submission Workshop @ Threadless

Learn how to design t-shirts the Threadless way: Take a free workshop led by Threadless staff and Alumni Club members. Learn requirements and guidelines, then stick around to draft your designs. Bring a laptop; computers are limited. RSVP to chicago AT threadless.com or just show up. 6-7pm. 3011 North Broadway Avenue.

Ingrid Schaffner @ MCA

Get the inside scoop on contemporary artist Karen Kilimnik’s work and process with Ingrid Schaffner, Senior Curator at the Institute of Contemporary Art at the University of Pennsylvania. Curator and writer Schaffner has been working in contemporary art since the mid-1980s and has developed an exceptional body of work around three themes: Surrealism, collecting, and photography. She has numerous publications on 20th century art, art reviews in Artforum, and catalog essays. Free. Up to two tickets may be reserved in advance. $3 nonrefundable handling fee for phone and online orders. Tickets are available at the MCA box office or by calling 312-397-4010. 1 p.m. 220 E. Chicago. For more info, visit the Website.

Print Release Party @ Sonnenzimmer

Work by multimedia artist Chris Kerr, New York-based painter Carrie Pollack, and Ignatz Award-winning comics artist Anders Nilsen. Proceeds from the sales of each edition of 75 signed and numbered prints will be shared equally between the artist and Sonnenzimmer. 7-11 p.m. oRSo plays special set around 9.30 p.m. 3605 N. Damen, Rear Store. For more info, visit the Website.

Caleb Jones Lyons and DetroitMONA @ ThreeWalls

On the heels of its recent exhibition of Chicago artists in Michigan (curated by Paul Klein), the Museum of New Art (MONA) is launching their initiative in Chicago at ThreeWalls. CHANGING CITIES: Detroit is a bold response to forced entropy, an initial step in establishing a global art exchange that swaps Detroit artists and work with artists in other cities. The range of medium and subject from these five Detroit artists infuses this initial exchange with the diversity of that underground scene, transplanted for a month to Chicago. With Hartmut Austen, Jef Bourgeau, Mary Fortuna, Cyrus Karimipour and Alison Wong. Through March 22. Slow Dance backinblackisblackisblackisblackisback is Caleb Jones Lyons' multimedia meditation and installation that invites an audience into a compelling environment of haunting totems, videos and social spaces in order to explore questions about power, intolerance and political engagement. Employing signs of existence, oppression, ritual, leisure, presence and absence, Lyons gathers together an unsettling group of objects and sounds that alter, disquiet and challenge the senses. Through March 29. Opening reception 6-9 p.m. 119 N. Peoria, #2D. For more info, visit the Website.

E-Coustic Chicago: An Art And Enviroment Celebration

E-coustic is an experience next Wed. at Joe’s that is a showcase of Stonecutter Record artists, but so much more.  An eco-friendly event featuring music by Martey Casey, The Andreas Kapsalis Trio, Jen Porter and many others will also feature live painting, a fashion show, dance, an art gallery (with photos by Avant/Chicago’s Kado) and other ways to enjoy. Joe’s is located at 940 W. Weed St.

Andy Warhol's Silver Clouds @ LUMA

The Loyola University Museum of Art presents Andy Warhol's Silver Clouds, a surreal installation consisting of helium-filled, pillow-like forms made from silver film, floating through 3,000-square feet of gallery space. In addition, five Chicago dance companies (Chicago Moving Company, Hedwig Dances, Molly Shanahan/Mad Shak, The Seldoms and Thodos Dance Chicago) will perform during the course of the exhibition, with a special children's date for a Dance in the Clouds. LUMA is located at 820 N. Michigan Ave. Admission is $6, $5 for seniors. Free to children under 14. For more information, please visit the LUMA website here.

Reading @ Brown Triangle

Poetry from Brenda Cardenas, Johannes Goransson, and Roberto Harrison. Curated by Daniel Borzutzky. Additionally, the current art show at the Brown Triangle is open for viewing, featuring work by John Almanza, Karolina Gnatowski and Carol Jackson. 7 p.m. 2214 W. 21st St. For more info, please call Cameron at 773-354-9060

Robots in the Summer Breeze II @ Phaiz

Opening reception party of site-specific art installation and fashion. With R. Nicholas Kuszyk, a Brooklyn artist who makes really cool robots. Backdraft and Chroma - Fashions for the Home. Sounds by DJ Genghiswon, liquids provided by Tiger Beer. 5-10 p.m. 673 North Milwaukee St. For more info, visit the Website.

CTA Art @ A.Okay Official

A.Okay Official, 3270 N. Clark St., hosts an opening party for its new show of CTA-inspired Chicago Train Art tonight from 6pm to 10pm. DJs Rude One, Tone B. Nimble, Sean Doe, ST!ZO, MAKER, Spontaneous, Mental and Intel all spin, and many of the artists will be in attendance. Radah.ism and team will do live screenprinting, and Mario Ink will be doing some bodypainting. Free.

Medicine Park Grand Opening @ Medicine Park

Photographer Jim Newberry and artist Derek Erdman host the festivities at tonight's opening of this new arts space. 7-11 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Valentine Block Printing Workshop @ Sacred Art

Learn to make your own Valentines with artist Stacey Colangelo from 5-8 pm at Sacred Art, 2040 W. Roscoe. Stacey will help you make graphic, carved "stamp" like designs from block prints to be made into customized cards for friends and loved ones. She will be assisting in the initial design for the blocks, the carving, and the printing of the blocks. Space is limited, so call 773-404-8790 to reserve your spot.

Cupid's Day Out Craft Show

Cupid's Day Out is a six-hour showcase of 12 cool designers who make everything from funky jewelry and knitted items to clothing, handbags and fancy soaps. Shop to your heart's content from 11 am - 5 pm at Flourish Studios, 3020 N. Lincoln.

Peter Hoffman: Post-Paintings Reception @ mini dutch gallery

Peter Hoffman's Post-Paintings travel back to Chicago to be exhibited for the first time as a group. Post-Paintings are small, oil-on-canvas pieces, which Hoffman produces after taking into consideration a form submitted by a hopeful participant. The form, found on multiple websites, comprises of a series of yes or no questions. The completed forms are mailed to Hoffman, where he then produces a painting and ships it back free of charge. The end result is receiving a unique and intimate piece on the doorstep. The project, which has been in progress for about a year and a half, allows Hoffman to continuously produce a body of work, taking the responses into consideration, but also using improvisational sources and concepts during production. In this loose form of painting, Hoffman has the freedom to work figuratively or abstractly. He incorporates everything from animals, to color studies, to ancient Greek sculpture, all the while using these as a means to experiment with color and techniques. Through March 2. 7-10 p.m. 3111 W. Diversey, first floor. For more info, visit the Website.

PHASE V Group Show @ 4ART Inc.

Artists: Royal Miree, Jeff Mickey, Salome Jaffe, Elaine Park, Ned Broderick, Charles Heppner, James Monroe, Roderick De Jesus, Charlie Rees, Chantal Philipon-Cegede, Sonia Katz, Robert C. Anderson, Robin M. Rios, Magdalena Lis, Susan Clinard, Eva Ludwig, Tulio Vazquez, Steven St. Claire. Closing: Feb. 29. 6pm-10 p.m. 1932 S. Halsted, Unit 100. For more info, visit the Website.

Josh Garrett Reception @ Ossia Fine Arts Space

"The fire-treated works embrace the volatility of life. They testify to the truth that all of our perceptions of beauty lie in the imperfections of man." 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Second reception Friday, March 14 from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; closing reception Friday, March 28 from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. 410 South Michigan Ave., Suite 537. For more info, visit the Website.

Cabrini Connections Art Club Reception and Silent Auction @ The Palette and Chisel

Reception and silent auction event showcasing the art work of middle and high school students living in the Cabrini Green housing project and participating in the tutor/mentor program. Drawings, paintings, paper mache sculptures and mosaic pieces on display through Feb. 10. A portion of the proceeds go to the artists and the remainder goes to support the Cabrini Connections programs. 5:30 p.m., auction ending at 8:30 p.m., event ending at 9 p.m. Free, but donations are accepted. 1012 N. Dearborn. For more info, visit the Website.

Kurt Weiss and Richard Caemmerer Opening @ Finestra Art Space

Visual Research: Varieties of Creative Experience continues with a reception for these two artists. 5-9 p.m. 410 S. Michigan Ave. Suite 516. For more info, visit the Website.

2nd Friday @ Chicago Arts District

Over 30 galleries in the Chicago Arts District (around 18th and Halsted) will be open from 6pm until 10pm tonight (and for free!) for your perusing.

Dolan Geiman @ Sacred Art

Geiman has constructed some very special Valentine Lovebirds to give your sweetie. Also, it's the gallery's second anniversary. Refreshments and the lovely and talented Kate Merena gives complimentary clairvoyant readings. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. 2040 W. Roscoe. For more info, call 773-404-8790.

Dolan Geiman @ Sacred Art

Contemporary Southern artist Dolan Geiman will have his artwork shown at Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village art store that featured handmade artwork by local artists. There will be a reception for Mr. Geiman tonight from 6:00 to 9:00 to celebrate the opening of his show. His artwork will be on display through February 17th. Sacred Art: 2040 W. Roscoe. (773) 404-8790.

Opening: Do We Dare Squander Chicago's Great Architectural Heritage? @ Archicenter

This exhibit about urban preservation efforts runs through 9 May in the Atrium Gallery. 224 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-922-3432 or visit the website.

Hui-min Tsen @ HP Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center's monthly "Talking Point" series features Hui-min Tsen's work with maps and video to expose the diversity of people's relationship to Chicago by focusing on their attachment to and fear of spaces within the city.

The discussion begins at 6PM at the Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell Avenue, 773-324-5520). Admission is free. Beer & Pizza are provided by the HPAC.

More about Hui-min Tsen:

Hui-min Tsen is an interdisciplinary artist whose work explores the act of exploration itself with an emphasis on the individual's everyday relationship with place, wonder, learning, and the culture of the unknown. In 2005 she received an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and has remained based in Chicago where she is best known for being one half of the collaboration "The Mt. Baldy Expedition" which has exhibited and performed at Dogmatic Gallery, Mess Hall, VONZWECK, Musicircus at the MCA, and on WLUW. She teaches photography and video at Wright College.

Living Room Paintings Reception @ Bucket Rider Gallery

"Living Room Paintings" describes the notion that a work of art must visually operate in congruity to ones decor and interior design. The exhibition has been playfully titled this way, as each work in the show is at odds with this notion. Some of the paintings are compositionally or formally complicated while others are thematically obstinate and require a kind of attention that disallows the viewer to let them slip into mere decoration. New works by Anna Bjerger, Brian Bress, Keltie Ferris, Andreas Fischer, Andrew Guenther, Lester Monzon, Angel Otero, and Christian Rieben. 5-8 p.m. Through Sat., March 8. 835 W. Washington Blvd., 2nd Floor. For more info, contact Patricia Courson at info@bucketridergallery.com or 312-421-6993.

Adaptation Opening @ Smart Museum of Art

This exhibition looks at the use of adaptation in the recent video installation work of four leading artists: Ben-Ner, Herrera, Sullivan, and Sussman & The Rufus Corporation. These artists have transformed source material to make their own adapted work of art, re-envisioning classic literature, painting, film, ballet, and even e-mail as new video installations. While addressing questions of fidelity and creativity, the exhibition generates new understanding of the use of adaptation as a practice in contemporary art. Reception and panel discussion with the artists. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Through May 4. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. For more info, visit the Website.

Preservation Chicago's "Chicago 7" Unveiling @ Santa Fe Building

Preservation Chicago will unveil its annual "Chicago 7" list of endangered historic places in Chicago today from 12:15-12:45pm at the John Buck Lecture Hall in the ground floor of the Santa Fe Building at 224. S. Michigan Ave. This year's list will include an "intriguing twist," so being present at the event may be all the more rewarding. For more information visit the organization's website or contact Jonathan Fine at 773.489.0300.

Closing: Maps: Finding Our Place in the World @ Field Museum

One of the most compelling exhibits of the citywide Festival of Maps closes today. 1400 S Lake Shore. For more information, call 312-922-9410 or visit the website.

Birds of Prey Reception @ Heaven Gallery

An exhibition of works created by the 2007 Harold Arts Residency Program participants. Each July, Harold Arts invites new, emerging and mid-career artists and musicians to a tree farm in Ohio's Appalachian foothills to collaborate and create new works in a pastoral landscape. 6 p.m. Screening of video works tomorrow at 8 pm. 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd Fl. For more info, visit the Website.

Art Jam Entry Deadline @ Galaxie

Today is the deadline for artists to submit their work for the Galaxie's Art Jam exhibition at the music, movement and fine art venue located at 2603 W. Barry Ave. Accepted works will be displayed at the Art Jam on Sunday, February 10.

stART @ Newd

Hey, street art fans. Tonight, artist/curator Artillery presents a collection of work by artists tiptoe and Saro at New'd, a new and used clothing store in Wicker Park. Enjoy "free beer and dope art" from 7 to 11 pm at the store, located at 1917 W. Division.

A Century of American Mugshots @ Intuit Gallery

"Punks, sneaks, mooks and miscreants" are among the more than 10,000 photos in the collection of Mark Michaelson, some of which will be on display at "Least Wanted: A Century of American Mug Shots" at Intuit Art Gallery, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., with an opening reception today at 5 p.m. Michaelson will also give a talk on his collection Saturday, January 19, 11 a.m.

Enemy Kitchen @ Hyde Park Art Center

Artist Michael Rakowitz will use food (based on his Iraqi mother's home recipies) as a metaphor for the war and the need for dialogue in "Enemy Kitchen" on Sunday, January 13, 5-7 p.m., at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. An RSVP is required. The performance is part of the Center's "Consuming War" Exhibition.

Marcelino Stuhmer @ Chicago Cultural Center

Stuhmer’s newest installation includes a 12-foot panoramic painting depicting the famous dream sequence from the Cold War classic film, The Manchurian Candidate. Also on view is a series of portraits of the American character actor, Henry Silva, one of the stars of the movie. These paintings have been created as a loving tribute to the many minority characters Silva portrayed throughout his career. On display until April 6. 78 E. Washington St. For more info, call 312-744-6630 or visit the Website.

Handmade Market @ The Empty Bottle

Get your crafty fix at the Handmade Market on January 12th from noon to 4:30 p.m. at The Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue). The fair features local artists and their one-of-a-kind wares (including jewelry, clothing, handbags, and greeting cards). Call 773-276-3600 for more details.

S/AIC Staff & Faculty Show

Staff and faculty of the Art Institute of Chicago and the School show their own artwork at Gallery 2, 847 W. Jackson, Jan. 11-25. The opening reception is tonight from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Free.

Opening: Map This! @ Archicenter

Part of the Chicago Festival of Maps, this exhibit--subtitled "Envisioning a Global City"--features "unique graphic representations of Chicago’s history and future" by students at IIT and UIC. Through 21 March in the John Buck Company Lecture Hall Gallery. 224 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-922-3432 or visit the website.

Katerina Seda @ The Renaissance Society

Czech artist Katerina Seda's primary media are her friends, family, and community of her native town Lisen. Seda uses performance, staged activities, and public interventions to reactivate social concourse as it is the basis for a sense of self predicated on group identification. The Society presents "It Doesn't Matter," a series of over 600 drawings executed by Seda's 77-year-old grandmother, cataloging in size and type the various tools and supplies sold through the Brno hardware shop her grandmother managed for over 30 years under communism. While therapeutic in intent, the result is a profound reflection on memory and subjectivity as expressed through, rather than in spite of, alienation. Reception from 4-7pm. 5811 South Ellis Ave. For more info, call 773-702-8670 or visit the Website.

Blutt Art Opening

Street artist Blutt shows a collections of paintings, ink on paper and other "affordable art" at NEW'D, 1917 W. Division, tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Attendees can partake in free beer and a 50 percent discount on store merchandise. Merry Christmas!

Oh No! Doom Open House

Oh No! Doom, an urban art collective/plush toy maker, celebrates the grand opening of its new space -- and the release of its latest plushie, FluffyYukYuk -- with a party tonight. Head to 2955 W. Lyndale between 7pm and 10pm for snacks, drinks and DJs.

the 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room

Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.

The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room

Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.

The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room

Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.

Democracy Burlesque Holiday Pageant

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's the troupe's second annual DB Holiday Pageant. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

PBR Art Exhibit & Free Show @ The Empty Bottle

Pabst Blue Ribbon lovers, prepare to have your minds blown at The Empty Bottle tonight. For one night only, view an exhibition of PBR-inspired art while guzzling your favorite low-cost libation. Doors open at 7pm for the exhibit, followed by the Bottle's weekly free show at 9pm featuring CoCoComa, The Dials, The Catburglers, and DJ Jeremy Thompson. 1035 N. Western Ave. 773-276-3600.

Ralph Arnold: "Who You/Yeah Baby" @ Corbett vs. Dempsey

Until his death in 2006, painter, printmaker, and collage artist Ralph Arnold was a subtle and masterful manipulator of image and identity. The Chicagoan's early works, from the 1950s and early 1960s, were steeped in a earth-toned postwar vocabulary, while his work from the mid-60s utilized the more whimsical elements of neo-Dada and Pop Art, incorporating text fragments and appropriated advertising images into a personal lexicon that drew on his experience as an African-American artist and Korean War vet. Corbett vs. Dempsey's debut exhibition of Arnold concentrates on works from the first quarter century of his oeuvre. A 56-page full-color catalog will be available at the exhibition. Exhibition opens December 7, and runs through January 5. 1120 N. Ashland (upstairs from Dusty Groove). 773.278.1664. An opening reception takes place tonight from 5-9pm. Regular gallery hours are Friday and Saturday 11-4, and by appointment.

Sacred Art Holiday Mixer

Sacred Art, the local art shop at 2040 W. Roscoe, holds its holiday party for artists and shoppers tonight from 6-9 pm. Enjoy snacks, wine, a chance to win prizes, and a trunk show with jewelry designer Bridget Mullozzi. The shop also has plenty of locally made gift ideas for under $50.

Gapers Block/Calumet Photo Swap @ Calumet Photographic

Gapers Block and Calumet Photographic invite photographers of all experience levels to participate in a photo swap. Show up at Calumet with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out with other photographers and then leave with five photos from others. Food and drinks will be provided. If you're concerned about getting your prints done in time, contact Calumet's Michael Martens at michael.martens@calumetphoto.com. He'll print your images and bring them to the Swap for you to pick up. The event is free and will run from 6pm-8pm at Calumet Photographic, 1111 N. Cherry Ave.

one of a kind show and sale @ The Merchandise Mart

Broaden your holiday shopping horizons at this four-day showcase featuring the work of over 400 artists, artisans and designers, all of whom will be on-hand. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, and free admission for children under 12. Buy tickets online or at the door. The show runs Thursday, Dec. 6 until Sunday Dec. 9, and show hours vary depending on the day; visit the one of a kind show and sale chicago website for more information or call 800.677.6278. The Merchandise Mart is located at 200 Merchandise Mart Plz on the Brown and Purple Lines.

VIVISYS @ Extension Gallery for Architecture

The Vivisys installation is an experimental double-curved lattice vault that plays host to an extraordinary cluster of rapidly prototyped aluminum and acrylic barnacles. Three-dimensional auroras of blue electron emitting cold cathode tubes respond to interactions from their environment. VIVISYS synthesizes patterns of the organic and the manufactured into a new creative paradigm for energy, form and matter. The exhibition also includes a series of models, drawings and videos that document four recent experimental projects by Future Cities Lab such as Super Galaxy II, Kowloon Urban Archipelagos, Robotic Ecologies, and the Urban Energy Farm, a competition entry for the Seoul Performing Arts Center in Korea (awarded Second Prize). Runs through Jan. 13. Reception at 6 p.m. 1835 S. Halsted St. For more information, visit the gallery's website or contact Paula Palombo at 773-742-0983.

Ninjatown Micro Plush pre-release party @ Rotofugi

Celebrate the debut of Shawnimals' new Micro Plush Ninjatown toys tonight at Rotofugi, 1953 W. Chicago Ave., 6-9 pm. The blind-box toys won't be officially released until Nov. 30, so get while the getting is good. Shawnimals creator Shawn Smith will be on hand to sign stuff and listen patiently as you describe how plush ninjas changed your life.

Peter Schjeldahl @ MCA

As part of the "People Who Shape our World" lecture series, head art critic for the New Yorker magazine Peter Schjeldahl discusses significant moments in the art world and the Museum of Contemporary Art’s history over the past 40 years. Up to two tickets may be reserved in advance. Free. 6 p.m. 220 E. Chicago. Tickets are available at the MCA box office or by calling 312-397-4010.

Allegoric @ Chicago Country Club

Allegoric is a one-night event featuring a distinctive breed of artists, designers, and illustrators. Tonight's 300-plus works on display are by Amy Mayfield, Andrew Jeffrey Wright, Bill McRight, Chris Hiltz, Chris Kerr, Chris Silva, Edith Abeyta, Erika Somogyi, Gala Bent, Hannah Woodroofe, Jesse Goldstein, Joseph Lappie, Karl Koett, Kelly Bowman, Ks Rives, Lee Piechocki, Matthew Feyld, Mel Kadel, Michael Genovese, Michael Pajon, Nelson Kahikina, Nick Butcher, Paul Nudd, Sighn, Travis Millard, and William Buzzel. Many of the artists will be in attendance. 7-11p.m. 1100 N. Damen. For more info, email howareyou@allegoricspace.com or call 312-919-0036.

Democracy Burlesque: DB Soup

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "DB Soup," features the best performances of 2007. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Site Unseen 2007 @ Cultural Center

Site-specific performance pieces and installations, created especially for the Cultural Center and curated by performance artist Julie Laffin, comprise this one-night festival that takes place throughout the rooms, halls, and stairwells of this beautiful beaux arts building. Wander around from 6 PM to 9 PM. Free. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Arctic @ Millennium Park

Part of the Chicago Humanities Festival, this multimedia installation "combines chilling video footage with sounds recorded on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen and reassembled into a haunting hour-long sound and video spectacular." At the Pritzker Pavillion, 9 AM to 10 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Arctic @ Millennium Park

Part of the Chicago Humanities Festival, this multimedia installation "combines chilling video footage with sounds recorded on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen and reassembled into a haunting hour-long sound and video spectacular." At the Pritzker Pavillion, 9 AM to 10 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Najee Dorsey Opening Reception @ Nicole Gallery

This exhibit features Najee Dorsey's figurative work, rich with vibrant color and emotion, as well as his symbolic quilt images. Dorsey explores and shares his southern roots through colorful themes of motherhood, loving couples, musical scenes and political commentary using a bright vivid palette. His figurative work focuses on the lives of women, particularly in the Mississippi Delta. The exhibition runs through Jan. 5, 2008. Reception from 5-8 p.m. Artist talk tomorrow from 1-3 p.m at the Nicole Gallery, 230 West Huron. For more info, call 312-787-7716.

Chuck Anderson Opening @ Threadless Store

Threadless kicks off its gallery shows at the new Threadless Store, 3011 N. Broadway, with the work of Chuck Anderson of No Pattern. The opening party is tonight from 7pm to 9pm. The show (Anderson's first solo in Chicago) will feature a collection of new original work as well as a sampling of past commercial works. Anderson will be in attendance, and an exclusive reprint (in new colors) of his Threadless Select shirt will be available during the length of the show -- as well as free show posters. More info here.

Silkscreen Workshop @ Sacred Art

Learn basic silkscreening techniques with Alexandra Blom and go home with your own equipment at this Sacred Art workshop. The workshop is $65, which includes squeegee and screen. Plus, you'll get 20% off any item in the store that day. From 7-9 pm at 2040 W. Roscoe.

Ann Toebbe @ Three Walls

Ann Toebbe paints portraits of interior spaces that she reconstructs from memory. For her solo exhibition, Stained Glass, she's painted the Catholic church interiors she remembers from childhood, and her parents' living room at Christmas, hoping to translate her experience as an adult atheist artist into pictures that explore the mysticism of painting and the pop culture undertones of contemporary religion. Tonight at 7:30pm, she'll tell you all about her work in person. ThreeWalls, 119 N. Peoria #2D. For more info, visit the Website or call 312-432-3972.

Ephemera Festival @ DePaul

Ephemera Festival is a one-day event that recognizes and celebrates D.I.Y. culture in its many forms, including zines, comics, handmade crafts, live demonstrations, readings by independent writers and more. The Festival takes place today from 11 am - 5 pm at the DePaul University Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave. For more info, contact ephemerafestival@gmail.com.

Arctic @ Millennium Park

Part of the Chicago Humanities Festival, this multimedia installation "combines chilling video footage with sounds recorded on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen and reassembled into a haunting hour-long sound and video spectacular." At the Pritzker Pavillion, 9 AM to 10 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art returns to Navy Pier with objects from nearly 100 dealers from 19 countries. The weekend-long show also includes a lecture program, film screening, and several special exhibits. 600 E Grand, 12 N to 6 PM. Tickets are $15/day or $25 for a 3-day ticket. For more information, call 800-563-7632 or 773-506-8860 or visit the website.

The Front/Gallepartmenty @ 1307 N. Bosworth

The Front is a gallery event and art, design, and writing extravaganza put on by the residents of 1307 N. Bosworth. Stop by Apts. 1F, 2F and 3F from 4-9pm to check out work from a dozen artists. They've got a really cool flyer, so this one looks promising.

Arctic @ Millennium Park

Part of the Chicago Humanities Festival, this multimedia installation "combines chilling video footage with sounds recorded on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen and reassembled into a haunting hour-long sound and video spectacular." At the Pritzker Pavillion, 9 AM to 10 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Jasper Johns @ Art Institute

This exhibit, which runs through 6 January, is a retrospective of the work of the acclaimed American artist in terms of his gray sculptures, prints, paintings, and drawings. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Opening: Mapping the Self @ MCA

Coordinating with the citywide Festival of Maps, this exhibit "explore[s] how artists use mapmaking to understand and explain themselves and the world around them." Through 10 February, 220 E Chicago. For more information, call 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art returns to Navy Pier with objects from nearly 100 dealers from 19 countries. The weekend-long show also includes a lecture program, film screening, and several special exhibits. 600 E Grand, 11 AM to 8 PM. Tickets are $15/day or $25 for a 3-day ticket. For more information, call 800-563-7632 or 773-506-8860 or visit the website.

Some Paintings by Derek Erdman @ Foursided Custom Framing Gallery

Local artist Derek Erdman -- ultra-prolific maker of colorful, iconic portraits and other delights -- is having his first-ever solo gallery show, and he wants you to be a part of it. Stop by the Foursided Gallery from 7-10pm this evening for his opening reception. The show runs through Nov. 30. 5061 N. Clark. For more info, visit the Website or call 773-506-8300.

SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art returns to Navy Pier with objects from nearly 100 dealers from 19 countries. The weekend-long show also includes a lecture program, film screening, and several special exhibits. 600 E Grand, 11 AM to 8 PM. Tickets are $15/day or $25 for a 3-day ticket. For more information, call 800-563-7632 or 773-506-8860 or visit the website.

8th Annual Open Studios Event @ Carroll Albany Arts Building

As part of Chicago Artists Month, you're invited to browse among the studios of around 30 artists in multiple media from 12 N to 7 PM (live jazz starts at 5 PM and continues till closing). 319 N Albany. Free. For more information, call 773-638-3500.

Artists Up Close @ MCA Store

Meet some of the people behind the cool stuff they sell at the MCA Store this afternoon from 1 PM to 4 PM. Artists and designers (from Chicago and beyond) include Terri Logan, Brian Schultz, Sarah Steedman, Wendy Stevens, and Ping Wu. 220 E Chicago. For more info, visit the website.

Opening: Visions of Concern @ David Weinberg Collection

In line with the theme of this year's Chicago Humanities Festival (Climate of Concern), this exhibit presents the environment-themed work of four artists (Tara Donovan, Maya Lin, David Opdyke, and Margaret Wertheim). 300 W Superior, Suite 203, through 29 December. For more information, call 312-529-5090 or visit the website.

Opening: thaw @ AIC

Coordinating with the Climate of Concern theme of this year's Chicago Humanities Festival, this video installation "combines natural noises collected on location at an Alaskan glacial mass" with synthesized sounds. In Film/Video Gallery 137 through 13 January. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Punk Houses @ Quimby's

Photographer Abby Banks is scheduled to screen a movie/slide show, talk about the book, and have live music by two acoustic acts to promote her book Punk Houses: Interiors in Anarchy at Quimby's. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 for more information.

Free Stuff at Ladyfest Chicago

Ladyfest returns to Chicago with a four-day festival of art, music, film, spoken word, and activism -- and a lot of it is free of charge! Spend your Sunday afternoon learning about sexuality (ladies only, please) or alternative health care at Heaven Gallery, 1550 W. Milwaukee. Or attend zine readings at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave. And it's all free, free, free!

Bridgeport Art Walk

As part of Chicago Artists Month, take a stroll through Bridgeport galleries and artist studios, starting at the mn Gallery at 3524 S Halsted. For more information, call 773-847-0573.

Opening: Big Picture: A New View of Painting in Chicago @ Chicago History Museum

This exhibit "highlights the relationship between Chicago's landscape and its artwork"; it includes some monumental murals as well as abstract paintings. 1601 N Clark. For more information, call 312-642-4600 or visit the website.

Ladyfest Chicago Concerts

Ladyfest returns to Chicago with a four-day festival of art, music, film, spoken word, and activism. Tonight's bill: an all-ages show at AV-Aerie, 2000 W. Fulton, featuring a short puppet film by Miss Pussycat followed by the song stylings of Lady Lucille, Bunny Rabbit, High Places, and Glass Candy. $10 at the door, or buy a weekend pass for $30 to get into all the events.

Bronzeville Arts District 3rd Friday Trolley Tour

Celebrate Chicago Artists Month by taking this trolley tour to browse at five Bronzeville-area galleries. The tour runs continuously between the galleries from 6 PM to 9 PM; start at Gallery Guichard at 3521 S King Dr. For more information, call 773-373-8000 or visit the website.

Helen Vendler on Wallace Stevens and Jasper Johns @ AIC

The renowned poetry critic discusses one of her favorite poets as his work relates to Jasper Johns, as part of the yearlong American Perspectives series of events. Free, in Fullerton Hall, 6 PM. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the Poetry Foundation website.

Ladyfest Chicago Opening Night

Ladyfest returns to Chicago with a four-day festival of art, music, film, spoken word, and activism. Tonight's opening night extravaganza features an art show, film and video shorts, and performances by Clare Chase, the Winks, Anni Rossi, and Diane Cluck, all at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee. Festival passes are available for $30 or you can pay $7 at the door for this event.

18th St: Pilsen Open Studios

Coordinating with Chicago Artists Month, this self-guided studio and gallery walk includes more than 30 artist spaces between 16th and 23rd, from May to Leavitt. Start from the APO Cultural Center at 1438 W 18th. 11 AM till 7 PM. For more information, visit the website.

Closing: Journey into the Realm @ Cultural Center

This exhibit, in the Michigan Avenue Galleries, features the trippy paintings of Chicago's Bruce Noel Mortenson. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

18th St: Pilsen Open Studios

Coordinating with Chicago Artists Month, this self-guided studio and gallery walk includes more than 30 artist spaces between 16th and 23rd, from May to Leavitt. Start from the APO Cultural Center at 1438 W 18th. 11 AM till 7 PM. For more information, visit the website.

Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building

As part of Chicago Artists Month, take yourself on a self-guided tour of this fabulous old building (its elevator is operated by an elevator man--when did you last see one of those?), almost entirely occupied by artists and galleries. Open today from 12 N till 5 PM, 410 S Michigan. Free. For more information, call 708-822-0063 or visit the website.

YarnCon @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse

Join other yarnophiles at YarnCon at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk) from 10am to 4pm. Yarn fans, buyers, and interested folks are welcome. Admission is $3.

Opening: Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef @ Cultural Center

In conjunction with this year's Humanities Festival (theme: Climate of Concern), this exhibit showcases a project by the LA-based Institute for Figuring, which "engages women the world over" in crocheting a coral reef. Through 16 December, in the Chicago Rooms (2nd floor), 78 E Washington. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: 18th St: Pilsen Open Studios @ Prospectus Art Gallery

Coordinating with Chicago Artists Month, Pilsen Open Studios kicks off with a special opening reception. 1210 W 18th. 5 PM till 10 PM. For more information, call 312-733-6132 or visit the website.

Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building

As part of Chicago Artists Month, take yourself on a self-guided tour of this fabulous old building (its elevator is operated by an elevator man--when did you last see one of those?), almost entirely occupied by artists and galleries. Open today from 4:30 PM till 9:30 PM, 410 S Michigan. Free. For more information, call 708-822-0063 or visit the website.

Opening: Place @ Chicago City Arts Gallery

"Place," a group art show featuring Scott Gruss, David Schalliol and Dylan Strzynski, opens at the Chicago City Arts Gallery in the Fine Arts Building, 410 South Michigan Ave., Suite 601. The opening is free and runs from 4:30pm to 8:30pm. For more information, vist the gallery website or call 312.235.0490.

Branford Marsalis Conversation @ AIC

As part of the yearlong American Perspectives series of events examining the interrelationships between visual art, music, and literature, AIC president and Director James Cuno talks with Branford Marsalis about his jazz career and his art collection. In Fullerton Hall, 111 S Michigan. 6 PM. Tickets are $10 to $15, and must be purchased in advance. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Democracy Burlesque: Elephantitis

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Elephantitis," considers the GOP and its presidential candidates. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Part of Chicago Artists Month, this neighborhood festival includes a self-guided tour of neighborhood galleries and studios, live music, workshops, and more. 11 AM till 5 PM. For more information, call 773-728-2995 or visit the website.

Intonation/MCA-Rock/Art @ MCA

In conjunction with its Sympathy for the Devil exhibit--which opened last week--and commemorating its 40th anniversary (also being celebrated by 40 days of free admission, starting this weekend) MCA presents this free afternoon of live music performances by Chicago-based bands, co-sponsored by Intonation. The show runs from 1 PM to 6 PM, 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website.

Day of the Dead Workshop at Sacred Art

Looking for the right accoutrements to celebrate Dia de los Muertos? Decorate your own sugar skull or ofrenda at this workshop led by Torri Thompson of ExIconoclast. The $40 workshop provides either an undecorated sugar skull and supplies to decorate with; or a painted wood drawer for your ofrenda, which you will complete with items you supply, such as pictures, food items, candles, flowers, anything that that belonged to your lost loved one. At Sacred Art, 2040 W. Roscoe. Call 773-404-8790 to reserve your spot.

Digital Design Tournament

So, Cut and Paste brings together local designers to flex their design chops live, in front of a crowd, for prizes! This year's tourney takes place on Saturday, October 6th at the Logan Square Auditorium. Doors open at 7 and goes until 11pm, but then the after party goes all night.

Andersonville Arts Weekend

Part of Chicago Artists Month, this neighborhood festival includes a self-guided tour of neighborhood galleries and studios, live music, workshops, and more. 11 AM till 6 PM. For more information, call 773-728-2995 or visit the website.

Todd Oldham @ MCA Store

Fashion Designer and host of Top Design stops by the Museum of Contemporary Art store to sign copies of the art book Charley Harper - An Illustrated Life and copies of his own home design book, Handmade Modern: Mid-Century Inspired Projects for Your Home. Free at 2pm, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.

Opening: Andersonville Arts Weekend

Part of Chicago Artists Month, this neighborhood festival opens today with parties, workshops, and performances. Festivities begin around 3:30 PM and run until 10 PM. For more information, call 773-728-2995 or visit the website.

Open House @ Bloomingdale Arts Building

As part of Chicago Artists Month 2007, wander around this Bucktown building, where artists live as well as work. 6 PM to 10 PM, 2418 W Bloomingdale. For more information, call 773-486-0485.

The Grocer Street Art Show

Have you taken note of those briliantly colored fruits and veggies decorating our city streets? That work, friends, is courtesy of The Grocer. Come check out several dozen of his new paintings at Foursided Gallery in Andersonville. The opening reception is tonight from from 7-10pm. Snacks and drinks will be served. Foursided is located at 5061 N. Clark St.

Blogger's Art Show @ Happy Dog Gallery

Tonight FLIST: Chicago celebrates the opening of the first art show featuring international artist-bloggers. There will be 2-D art, listening stations, jewelry, crafts and film, as well as a special opening night mashup from DJ Freddy, King of Pants. 7pm-2am at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Email info[at]flist-art[dot]com for more information. The show runs through October 12.

Orbert Davis in Conversation @ AIC

As part of the yearlong American Perspectives series of events examining the interrelationships between visual art, music, and literature, art historian Kym Pinder talks with noted trumpeter Davis about the links between jazz and the work of artist Romare Bearden. In Fullerton Hall, 111 S Michigan. 6 PM. Free. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Opening: 10th Annual Chicago Art Open @ Iron Studios

This festival, sponsored by the Chicago Artists Coalition, exhibits examples of work by more than 300 local artists. 3636 S Iron. Through 27 October. For more information, call 312-781-0040 or visit the website.

Closing: Mark di Suvero: Works and Protest @ Cultural Center

Today marks the closing of this exhibit, which has provided interesting background for the five abstract expressionist sculptures currently on display in Millennium Park (through 1 April 2008). Free, 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Pilsen East Artists' Open House

Artists and galleries around 18th and S Halsted open their studios and gardens and host opening receptions throughout this weekend in this event organized by the Chicago Arts District. Free, 12 N to 7 PM. For more information, call 312-377-4444 or visit the website.

Opening: Sympathy for the Devil @ MCA

MCA celebrates its 40th anniversary with this examination of "the relationship between visual art and rock and roll culture." The exhibit includes paintings, album covers, music videos, and more.Through 6 January. 220 E Chicago. For more information call 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Pilsen East Artists' Open House

Artists and galleries around 18th and S Halsted open their studios and gardens and host opening receptions throughout this weekend in this event organized by the Chicago Arts District. Festivities kick off tonight with an opening reception at 2003 S Halsted, 6 PM to 10 PM. Free. For more information, call 312-738-8000, x 112 or visit the website.

Opening: Casting a Shadow @ Block Museum of Art

This exhibit, which runs through 9 December, displays the evidence of Alfred Hitchcock's film making process, including drawings, storyboards, and other documents. Through 9 December. 40 Arts Circle Dr, Evanston. For more information, call 847-491-4000 or visit the website.

Orozco: Man of Fire @ AIC

Part of the yearlong American Perspectives series of events examining the interrelationships between visual art, music, and literature, this documentary explores how Mexican muralist Jose Orozco turned historical events into great works of art. In Fullerton Hall, 111 S Michigan. 6 PM. A discussion follows the film. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Altars a Go-Go @ Paper Boy

Unique found objects intermingle with religious icons and sparkling ornamentation with these one-of-a-kind shrines created by young Chicago artist (and Crafty Lady) Stephanie Keller. Figures carved from wood and other materials depict a range of religious icons including Saint Francis and Ganesh. Her work is influenced by art from Asia, Mexico and the American Southwest, with influences by Frida Kahlo and outsider art, making every shrine a unique depiction of a range of religious influences. A free opening reception with drinks and snacks takes place tonight, from 6-8pm at Paper Boy at 1351 W. Belmont (near Southport). Call (773) 388-8811 for more information. The show runs at the store until October 17th.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Street Art Show, Wicker Park

This Friday, local street artist Artillery launches his latest art at New'd, a Wicker Park clothing shop. His work will be up through October, but you can join him tonight from 7 pm to 11 pm for free beer and music. New'd is located at 1917 W. Division. Plus, you can get 30% off any article of clothing during the opening.

Opening: Intersections @ Chicago Architecture Foundation

As part of a celebration of the new book, Chicago: City on the Move, by Michael Williams, Richard Cahan, and Bruce Moffat, CAF presents this exhibition of large-format photographs of Chicago intersections in the 1930s. Through 5 January. 224 S Michigan. For more information, call 312- 922-3432 or visit the website.

Opening: Terry Evans: Prairie Scrolls @ Environmental Law & Policy Center

This exhibit features the work of photographer Terry Evans: "prairie photos taken in the 1970s and previously unpublished, joined in a scroll-like formation to produce lively, dynamic scenes." 35 East Wacker, Suite 1300. Through spring 2008. For more information, visit the website or call 312-795-3729.

Estrojam 2007

The Estrojam Music and Culture Festival celebrates its fifth year with six days of music, art, workshops, and film at various locations around the city. The fest kicks off tonight with an Outdanced Panty Party at Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand, featuring Theo (Lunachicks), Michael T., and Peppermint Gummybear.Buy tickets online.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Renegade Craft Fair

The 5th Annual Renegade Craft Fair is joining forces with the Do-Division street festival today. Head down to Division (between Damen and Wood) and browse the work of more than 200 vendors. 12 N to 10 PM. For more information, visit the website.

Closing: Living Modern @ Smart Museum of Art

This exhibit, which began on 7 June, highlights "German and Austrian Art and Design, 1890-1933" and features paintings, sculptures, works on paper, and household designs from the museum's collection. Senior curator Richard A. Born offers a closing-day tour today at 2 PM. 5550 S Greenwood. For more information, call 773-702-0220 or visit the website.

Renegade Craft Fair

The 5th Annual Renegade Craft Fair is joining forces with the Do-Division street festival today and tomorrow. Head down to Division (between Damen and Wood) and browse the work of more than 200 vendors. 12 N to 10 PM. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Richard Misrach: On the Beach @ AIC

"For more than 30 years, Richard Misrach has been producing beautiful photographs of terrible subjects..." This exhibit is the premiere museum showing of the noted photographer's new series. Through 25 November, when it departs on a two-year tour. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Art & Appetizers @ Gallery 37

ArtScape Chicago, a collaboration between Harold Washington College and Gallery 37, presents this opportunity to sample its adult education program (with a session on Screen Printing or Floral Design, or Pop-up Books, for example) after an hour-long reception with appetizers. In the Center Space Gallery, 5th floor, starting at 5:30 PM. $19. 66 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-9976 or visit the website.

Democracy Burlesque: Donkey Kong

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Donkey Kong," considers the Democratic presidential candidates. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Flat Iron Open Studios

The artists of the Flat Iron Building in Wicker Park open their studios to the public today from from 12 N to 6 PM. 1579 N Milwaukee, free. For more information, visit the website.

Flat Iron Open Studios

The artists of the Flat Iron Building in Wicker Park open their studios to the public today from from 12 N to 9 PM. Studios will also be open tomorrow from 12 N to 6 PM. 1579 N Milwaukee, free. For more information, visit the website.

Revise CMW Opening @ 32nd & Urban Gallery

The graffiti-inspired art of Revise CMW is on display starting tonight at 32nd & Urban Gallery, 3201 S. Halsted St., with an opening party from 6 to 11pm. DJ J. Lee spins.

Logan Square Historic District House & Garden Walk

Logan Square Preservation will host its 26th annual walking tour of homes and gardens along Logan Square's boulevards today from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 the day of the tour. Call 773-252-4859 for more information.

Flat Iron Open Studios

The artists of the Flat Iron Building in Wicker Park open their studios to the public this evening from 6 PM to 10 PM. Studios will also be open tomorrow from 12 N to 9 PM and Sunday from 12 N to 6 PM. 1579 N Milwaukee, free. For more information, visit the website.

Game Over @ Cultural Center

Talk about geeky! As part of the Art of Play, the city's summer-long celebration of toys, games, and the spirit of play, the Ohm Multimedia Series is presenting this evening of video game music and visual art. Free, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at 7 PM. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Columbia Collective Artwalk

Columbia College is opening all its galleries tonight from 5pm to 8pm for an artwalk. Check out the reception for "Vodou Riche: Contemporary Haitian Art," complete with Haitian market, at Glass Curtain Gallery, 1104 S. Wabash; "Estampa Cultural: Embracing Mexican Imprints" at C33 Gallery, 33 E. Congress Pkwy.; and the Albert P. Weisman Memorial Scholarship Exhibition at the Hokin Gallery and Hokin Annex Gallery, 623 S. Wabash Ave. Free, all ages. More information here.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

African Festival of the Arts

Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.

Monday September 3rd Entertainment highlights:

Main Stage

1:45 PM Trinity
3:00 PM Phil Cochran & The Circle of Sound Reunion
5:00 PM Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars
7:00 PM MUNTU Dance Theare
8:00 PM Dwele, Stylistics & Cameo

World Stage

3:00 PM KRC Ensemble
4:30 PM Mina Agossi
6:30 PM James Cotton

Hip-Hop Stage

3:45 PM Lord Shrewd
4:15 PM Team All City featuring Joe Grande
5:00 PM Que Billah
5:30 PM Dat Boy Hot 2 Def
6:00 PM Twone Gabbz featuring DJ B-Side
6:30 PM Mikkey
7:00 PM EPMD
8:00 PM Kurtis Blow

African Festival of the Arts

Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.

Sunday September 2nd Entertainment highlights:

Main Stage

2:00 PM Sueno Con Cuba Ensemble
3:00 PM Poncho Sanchez
5:00 PM Hugh Masekela
7:00 PM George/Brothers Johnson, Sir Nose, Switch, Slave & Mary Jane Girls

World Stage

3:00 PM Rolad Brown
4:30 PM Brazil by Samba 1
6:30 PM Afro-cuban Review by Yunior Terry's Son de altura's Afro-cuban Review

Hip-Hop Stage

1:00 PM Urbanized Music
1:45 PM Longshott
2:15 PM The Molemen Family
3:00 PM Triple Darkness featuring Drama Ward
3:45 PM Primeridian
4:05 PM Pugzlee Adams
4:25 PM Poetree Chicago
4:45 PM Dr. Groove
5:15 PM Jitu the Jugganot
5:45 PM GLC
6:15 PM JUICE
7:00 PM All Natural, Inc.

African Festival of the Arts

Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.


Saturday September 1st Entertainment highlights:

Main Stage
2:00 PM Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias
4:30 PM Leela James
6:00 PM Randy Weston
8:00 PM United We Funk -- Dazz Band, Con Funk Shun & barkays

World Stage
3:30 PM Walt Chris
5:00 PM Dee Alexander
6:30 PM East Harlem's Jimmy Delgado All Stars

Hip-Hop Stage
3:45 PM M'rald & Verbal Balance
4:15 PM Amina
4:45 PM NuSense
5:15 PM Ang 13
5:45 PM Teefa
6:15 PM Monie Love
6:50 PM Yo Yo
7:30 PM MC Lyte

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Window Painting @ Sacred Art

Recycling artist Beth Pearlman teaches you how to make cool paintings on vintage windows at Sacred Art, 2040 W. Damen, at 11 am. The workshop costs $80 (windows provided) and space is limited, so make reservations at 773-404-8790.

Bleep! Remixing Pong to Donkey Kong @ Cultural Center

Talk about geeky! As part of the Art of Play, the city's summer-long celebration of toys, games, and the spirit of play, the Ohm Multimedia Series is presenting this evening of video game music and visual art. Free, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at 7 PM. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Dance for Life Benefit

Dance for Life Chicago brings together the city's most talented and exicting dance companies for one spectacular, celebratory evening of dance. The gala reception at 5:00 is followed by a 7:30 performance featuring Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, and the River North Chicago Dance Company. Proceeds benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, AIDS Legal Council of Chicago, Centro San Bonifacio, and the Dance for Life Fund. Tickets are $75-500 (come on, it's for a good cause!). At the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph.

Opening: Collection Highlights @ MCA

In time for its its 40th anniversary, MCA puts the most impressive works in its collection on display for this chronological exhibition, which runs through 8 June next year. 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website.

Art & Appetizers @ Gallery 37

ArtScape Chicago, a collaboration between Harold Washington College and Gallery 37, presents this opportunity to sample its adult education program (with a session on Belly Dance or Textile Design, or Public Speaking, for example) after an hour-long reception with appetizers. In the Center Space Gallery, 5th floor, starting at 5:30 PM. $19. 66 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-9976 or visit the website.

Democracy Burlesque: DB4Kids

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show is "DB4Kids: A Show for the Entire Family." The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Local H and Baby Teeth @ WestFest

The West Town neighborhood hosts its annual WestFest this weekend, featuring vendors selling fine art, high end craft, and handmade goods, and music. Sunday's line-up sports headlining sets from Local H and Baby Teeth, as well as DJ sets by DJ Intel & Pickel, Frankie Vega, and others. For the full schedule, see the Fest's website. On Chicago Avenue, between Damen and Wood. 12-10pm, $5 donation.

Palmer Square Boulevard Art Festival

Music, food, art and trolley rides (my fave!) will be abundant at the fourth annual Palmer Square Boulevard Art Festival, which will be held today at Palmer Square Park (3100 West Palmer). The festival begins at noon each day, and ends at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 9:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Bobby Conn & Waco Brothers @ WestFest

The West Town neighborhood hosts its annual WestFest this weekend, featuring vendors selling fine art, high end craft, and handmade goods, and music. Saturday's schedule boasts such artists as Bobby Conn, Califone, The Ponys, the Waco Brothers and many others. Local DJs Zebo and Jesse de la Pena will also be performing at the Lava DJ stage. For the full schedule, see the Fest's website. On Chicago Avenue, between Damen and Wood. 12-10pm, $5 donation.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Learn to make art the right way -- under the influence -- in the Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails & Clay event series. The Center is kept open late so visitors can learn handbuilding, coils or just play with the clay. If you're feeling more social than creative, there will also be drinks, DJs, dancing and tours of the Center's latest exhibitions. 8pm-12am at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. A donation of $15 is suggested and all proceeds benefit HPAC programs. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

New Media Story Telling Workshop @ HPAC

The Scottish artist, Andrew Gryf Paterson - who lives in Helsinki - will be a visiting artist at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave , Tonight at 6pm (Lasting till 8pm). He'll share some of his past works about collecting stories with mobile technologies and social networking tools - skillfully and thoughtfully mixing new media with very old media! The event is part of a series of events for 2 months and is free and open to the public.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Opening: Journey into the Realm @ Cultural Center

This exhibit, which runs through 14 October in the Michigan Avenue Galleries, features the trippy paintings of Chicago's Bruce Noel Mortenson. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Indira Freitas Johnson @ Cultural Center

The Cultural Center is hosting a sculptural installation--Lifetime Offer, Dimensions Variable--by this Chicago-based artist, through 7 October in the Michigan Avenue Galleries. The installation incorporates what some people might call trash with fragments of spiritual objects. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening Reception for Unit 2 Art Collective

Tonight is the opening reception for the Unit 2 Art Collective group show, featuring works of sculpture, drawing, video, painting and photography from fourteen Chicago artists. The opening reception will take place from 6:00-10:00 p.m. at 1040 North Halsted.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School

What happens when cabaret meets art school? Drawin', drinkin' and dames, that's what. Pack up your charcoals (or crayons, if you're not a recovering art school kid) and head over to Five Star Bar and Grill this Saturday at 3 PM for Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School. This month's theme is "Beach Blanket Burlesque" and features the modeling stylings of the sexy Mimi First. Silly drawing contests abound. 3-6 PM at Five Star Bar and Grill, 1424 W. Chicago Ave., $10 suggested donation at the door, $15 to reserve a table in advance. For reservations and more info visit Dr. Sketchy's Chicago.

Opening: Alexander Calder @ MCA

MCA revisits its annual Calder exhibition with this show of mobiles, stabiles, and works on paper. Through 13 April. 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: The Gates of Paradise @ AIC

In 1425, Lorenzo Ghiberti started work on bronze doors for the Baptistry in Florence. It took him 27 years to finish his masterpiece, which illustrates Old Testament stories in bronze relief panels. The painstaking restoration of these doors has taken about 25 years, and its completion is being marked by a traveling exhibition of parts of the great work. Unless you plan to visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo in Florence, where the intact masterpiece will be displayed permanently, visiting AIC in the next few months may be your only chance to see what Michaelangelo called "truly worthy to be the Gates of Paradise." Through 14 October. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Opening: Daily Life: Photographs by Christopher Rauschenberg @ Cultural Center

This exhibit, which runs through 7 October, features recent work of a prolific Portland-based photographer. In the Michigan Avenue Galleries. 77 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Experimental Education Projects Exhibit Opening @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Stockyard Institute has initiated a range of new education projects at the Hyde Park Art Center and has also recently organized an exhibition to discuss new experimental trends in urban education. The art show will be up for the next 2 months and will be accompanied by a public program every wednesday and saturday from now until September 23. The exhibit will feature work by Working with other artists, collaboratives, and groups, such as Counter Cartography Collective (Chapel Hill) The Center for Urban Pedagogy (New York), rum46 (Denmark), Think Tank (Philadelphia), Artlink (UK), and AREA (Chicago), just to name a few. The grand opening will last from 3-5pm at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.

Opening: New Narratives: Contemporary Art from India @ Cultural Center

This exhibit includes more than 60 works in diverse media by 21 Indian artists, and is being displayed through 23 September in the Exhibit Hall as well as the Sidney R. Yates Gallery. Opening day features a panel discussion with several artists in the Sidney R. Yates Gallery at 2 PM. 77 E Randolph, free. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Art/Scavenger Hunt @ Lloyd Dobler Gallery

Art Hunt 2007 is an outdoor photographic scavenger hunt, taking art beyond the traditional gallery walls. Show up with friends, and you'll receive a camera, along with a list of clues. The first group to find and document seven art installations with their camera wins. Photographs from all the teams will be on display for three weeks, following the hunt. Saturday, July 21, 2PM - 6PM. Lloyd Dobler Gallery, 1545 W. Division. Free. More info online.

Gapers Block/Calumet Photographic Photo Swap @ Calumet Photographic

Gapers Block and Calumet Photographic are hosting a free Photo Swap from 3pm-5pm at Calumet Photographic's store, 1111 N Cherry Ave. Show up with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out, have some food and drinks, and then go home with five photos from other people. Photographers of all levels of experience are welcome. See you there! (Keep in mind that Calumet doesn't do printing, so show up with your prints.)

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

From Trash to Treasure workshop @ Intuit

Part of the city-wide Art of Play series of events, this workshop shows you "how to transform everyday items and found objects into inspired works of art." 1 to 4 PM, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free, but reservations are required for the three hour-long workshops: e-mail Amanda Curtis, Education Coordinator, at Amanda [at] art [dot] org or call 312-243-9088. For more information, visit the website.

"Mechanical Tide" Opening @ ESS

Audible at ESS, the gallery space in Experimental Sound Studio, 5925 N. Ravenswood, holds an opening reception for "Mechanical Tide," an audio sculpture by Jesse Seay, from 6pm to 9pm tonight. Renowned clarinetist and saxophonist Giullermo Gregorio will perform at 7pm. Free.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Learn to make art the right way -- under the influence -- in the Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails & Clay event series. The Center is kept open late so visitors can learn handbuilding, coils or just play with the clay. If you're feeling more social than creative, there will also be drinks, DJs, dancing and tours of the Center's latest exhibitions. 8pm-12am at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. A donation of $15 is suggested and all proceeds benefit HPAC programs. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Opening: Xefirotarch @ AIC

Architecture aficionados won't want to miss this exhibit that features maquettes, models, animations, and a sculptural installation by one of the most cutting-edge firms, Xefirotarch, of LA. Through 28 October. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Democracy Burlesque: Pilgrim's Progress

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show is called "Pilgrim's Progress: The Immigration Show." The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Lipp, Abrams & Fasman @ Hyde Park Art Center

As one of the final performances scheduled for artist Juan Chavez's Speaker Project, New York electronic musician and rhythm-meister Eliot Lipp will be playing at the Hyde Park Art Center. For the occasion, Lipp will be collaborating with a pair of Chicago associates--DJ Ben Fasman (of WalkThisWay and Gutter Butter DJs affilation) and bassist-about-town Josh Abrams. 5020 S. Cornell. 9pm, $8 admission. Advance tickets are available through the Empty Bottle website.

Art and Anarchism @ Green Lantern

Come Talk with former Chicagoan's Josh MacPhee and Dara Greenwald about their latest projects. Dara Greenwald is showing new videos, including one about squats in Barcelona. Josh MacPhee talking about his new book, "Realizing the Impossible:
Art Against Authority
". Just published on AK Press, and edited by Josh & Erik Reuland, it's a 300 plus page collection of writing and images investigating the intersections of art and anarchism (The book will be on sale at the event). This Free Event will take place at Green Lantern Gallery (1511 N Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor) from 7-9pm and will be BYOB.


Sketch Monday

Sketch Monday is a biweekly event with a variety of artists who sit, draw, drink, talk, draw some more. At Tantrum, 1023 S. State St., starting around 7-730pm. Free, but 21 and over.

Closing: Lee Mingwei @ Cultural Center

This multi-part exhibit by the Taiwan-born artist, called Impermanence, features a sand version of Picasso's Guernica, an assortment of bed-and-nightstand arrangements, and three beautiful enclosures in which you're encouraged to write that letter you've been putting off. (You can have it mailed, or leave it in the enclosure for someone else to read.) This is the kind of exhibit you want to return to with friends. Free. 77 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-7730 or visit the website.

Opening: Jeff Wall @ AIC

This exhibit surveys the influential artist's 30-year career of making large-scale photographs, and runs through 23 September. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Jeff Wall @ AIC

The subject of a new (starts tomorrow) exhibition at AIC, Jeff Wall discusses his work in Fullerton Hall this evening at 6 PM. Free, but Fullerton Hall isn't that big; AIC members can get priority seating by calling 312- 499-4111. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312-443-3600 or visit the website.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Street Art Sale

One of Chicago's most original and innovative street artists, Ninjagrl, is flying the coop and heading west. You can pick up some of her original works at tonight's sale. Paintings, buttons, stickers, prints. All sorts of stuff at varying price levels. The sale is at Three Left Productions, 4951 N. Oakley, Gallery One. For questions, call 312-523-3121 and ask for Jocelyn if you have questions. The show will start at 7 p.m.

Opening: Escultura Social @ MCA

The MCA celebrates one of North America's most exciting art scenes with this exhibit showcasing recent works from Mexico City. The exhibit features work in various media (including performance art, videos, photographs, and installations) by 19 artists and one architect, and runs through 2 September. 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Closing: Roy Lichtenstein @ Block Museum of Art

This exhibit of work by Pop Art icon Lichtenstein includes lithographs, etchings, and prints. 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. For more information, call 847-491-4000 or visit the website.

Spires That In The Sunset Rise @ HPAC

Chicago's own pysch-goth combo Spires That In The Sunset Rise play at the Hyde Park Art Center this afternoon. As part of the HPAC's "Speaker Project," the band will be playing inside of Juan Angel Chavez's "sounding-sculpture" that is currently installed in the Center's main exhibition space. 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. 3-4pm. Free to the public.

Arts of Life Annual Summer Exhibit

Arts of Life opens it doors for its annual summer art exhibition featuring the work of thirteen Arts of Life studio artists. Exhibited media range from oil pastels to collages to acrylics to photography and more. Arts of Life is an artist community that "provides adults with developmental disability an environment to experience personal growth." Admission to the 6pm event is $25 and includes beer, wine and hors d'oeurvres. A silent auction will be held starting at 7pm and offers prizes suchs as massages, manicures, baseball memorabilia and, of course, art. Arts of Life is located at 2110 W. Grand Ave. Call 312-829-2787 for more information.

Plastic Little @ Hyde Park Art Center

Obnoxious, club-bangin', uber-ironic "party rap" trio Plastic Little return for their second appearance in Chicago. This time will offer a little something different for everyone, as they're playing inside the "Speaker Project" at the Hyde Park Art Center. Check the Empty Bottle schedule and keep eye on our Transmission page for further details. 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. 8pm, tickets are $8.

Outdoor Art Bazaar @ Sacred Art

Beth Pearlman, who recycles vintage windows into cool, affordable paintings, will be on hand at Sacred Art's Outdoor Art Bazaar tonight, 7-9 pm, 2040 W. Roscoe. If you don't see the painting of your dreams, drink some PBRs with the artist and commission a custom order.

Democracy Burlesque Presents "Theocracy Burlesque"

Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Theocracy Burlesque," celebrates the marriage of church and state. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.

Guerilla Truck Show

The Guerilla Truck Show features dozens of local furniture designers and artists using rented moving trucks as mini showrooms of their work. The show centers on the corner of Aberdeen and Fulton Market, with info at Morlen Sinoway Atelier, 1052 W. Fulton Market. The event runs from 6pm to 9pm tonight, all for free. More info here.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Check out the farmer's market out front (it closes by 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Artists' Rally @ Picasso

Tonight at 5:30pm, Chicago artists will rally around the Picasso at the Daley Center to protest an ordinance to privatize the selection of public art, among other things, proposed by Mayor Daley and the Department of Cultural Affairs. Protesters will be carrying blank signs and shouting "Hey! Hey! Ho! Ho! Something something has got to go!" to symbolize the silencing of artists' voices. Help keep public art meetings open by lending your support. More info here.

Old Town Art Fair

This 58th annual fair features works by 260 artists, live music, food tents, a garden walk, a historic tour, and children's activities for a $5 admission donation that benefits local youth groups and preservation projects. Enter at Lincoln and Wisconsin. The festival runs from 10 AM to 6 PM today and tomorrow. For more information, call 312-337-1938.

Wells Street Art Festival

Wanna buy some art? This 33rd annual festival runs along Wells from North to Division and includes paintings as well as works in glass, textiles, and other media by more than 250 artists. Admission is $7to $10 for this event, which also features food tents and live music. 10 AM to 10 PM. Call 773-868-3010 for more information or visit the website.

Old Town Art Fair

This 58th annual fair features works by 260 artists, live music, food tents, a garden walk, a historic tour, and children's activities for a $5 admission donation that benefits local youth groups and preservation projects. Enter at Lincoln and Wisconsin. The festival runs from 10 AM to 6 PM today and tomorrow. For more information, call 312-337-1938.

Wells Street Art Festival

Wanna buy some art? This 33rd annual festival runs along Wells from North to Division and includes paintings as well as works in glass, textiles, and other media by more than 250 artists. Admission is $7to $10, for this event, which also features food tents and live music. 10 AM to 10 PM. Call 773-868-3010 for more information or visit the website.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Learn to make art the right way -- under the influence -- in the Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails & Clay event series. The Center is kept open late so visitors can learn handbuilding, coils or just play with the clay. If you're feeling more social than creative, there will also be drinks, DJs, dancing and tours of the Center's latest exhibitions. 8pm-12am at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. A donation of $15 is suggested and all proceeds benefit HPAC programs. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Opening: Mark di Suvero: Works and Protest @ Cultural Center

This exhibit coincides with the five abstract expressionist sculptures currently on display in Millennium Park (through 1 April 2008), and includes photographs by dealer Richard Bellamy of other Mark DiSuvero works. Through 1 October. Free, 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Tuesdays w/the Art Center

This Tuesday the Hyde Park Art Center opens its doors for an event both social and arty. Come by for hands-on art activities as well as coffee, tea, cookies and general socializing. This monthly series is open the public with $5 suggested donation and is held at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. from 1-2:30pm. For more information, call 773-324-5520.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Kick back at the Museum of Contemporary Art after work. Wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays) and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz (the concert starts at 5:30 PM) and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

57th St. Art Fair

The 57th St. Art Fair is Chicago's oldest juried art fair, offering art lovers the opportunity to experience glass, jewelry, photography, printmaking, ceramics and more produced by artists from all over the country. There are also hands-on activities and playgrounds to keep the kids happy and food vendors to keep everyone satisfied. Free and open to the public, the fair takes place along 57th St. from Kenwood to Kimbark. Saturday, 11am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm. Call 773-493-FAIR or email info[at]57thstreetartfair[dot]org for more information.

57th St. Art Fair

The 57th St. Art Fair is Chicago's oldest juried art fair, offering art lovers the opportunity to experience glass, jewelry, photography, printmaking, ceramics and more produced by artists from all over the country. There are also hands-on activities and playgrounds to keep the kids happy and food vendors to keep everyone satisfied. Free and open to the public, the fair takes place along 57th St. from Kenwood to Kimbark. Saturday, 11am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm. Call 773-493-FAIR or email info[at]57thstreetartfair[dot]org for more information.

ArtWalkRavenwood Fundraiser

Help support ArtWalkRavenswood by participating in its first ever fundraiser, an "Artist Friendly" silent arts auction. All auction items are from Ravenswood-based artists and participants will be treated to original music by Helen Money, an open bar and selections from local restaurants. Proceeds from the auction will go toward the development of AWR programs. Advance tickets are $30; tickets on the day of at $40. Call 773-954-7419 for tickets and information or get them online. The fundraiser will be held from 5:30pm-10pm at 4043 N. Ravenswood.

Manifest

Thankfully, schools are realizing that the people who have to sit through sluggish graduation ceremonies deserve something more compelling than a three-hour speech by Vaclav Havel. Manifest, Columbia College's annual undergraduate and graduate student show, starts at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 9:00 p.m. at 600 South Michigan, and includes street performances, an art walk, readings, and more.

Mother of a Good Time

In honor of upcoming Mother's Day, the artists and artisans at the Cornelia Arts Building are opening their doors for a party and reception in their various studios, free to the public. Look for artists on both floors! The party is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. this Friday, May 11. The Cornelia Arts Building is located at 1800 W. Cornelia at Ravenswood.

Lonnie Holley opening reception @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art welcomes artist Lonnie Holley, who will be at the gallery creating site-specific works over the next two weeks. Today there will be an openin reception and talk by Holley; check with Intuit for event times. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

NYC's Eyebeam Roadshow Visits Chicago

Join the Eyebeam Roadshow & Dinnerluck for potluck, pyrotechnics, pharmaceuticals (and possibly some discussion) as the Eyebeam Roadshow pit stops at Mess Hall. The line up includes current resident artists and fellows in the OpenLab and Production Lab at Eyebeam (an experimental art & technology center in NYC): Jeff Crouse, Steve Lambert, Jamie O'Shea, Stephanie Rothenberg, Jamie Wilkinson and Joanna Raczkiewicz (talking head).The action starts at 7pm at at Mess Hall 6932 North Glenwood Avenue.

Creative Move TOO @ HPAC

The Hyde Park Art Center celebrates its first year in its new building with a 24-hour extravaganza, featuring hands-on art-making workshops and demonstrations, exhibition receptions, artists’ presentations and a wide variety of entertainment by Chicago-area performers. Admission is free. A full schedule of events is available on HPAC’s Web site. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave., Chicago.

Release Party: Chicago Activist Art Catalogue @ Mess Hall

Come out and pick up a free copy of the new publication, "Trashing The Neoliberal City: Autonomous Cultural Projects in Chicago From 2000-2005", that documents critical/social/activist projects from our city's past. With contributions by Ava Bromberg, Dakota Brown, Rachel Caidor, Emily Forman, Dara Greenwald, Nicolas Lampert, Pauline Lipman, Josh MacPhee, Micah Maidenberg, Laurie Palmer, the Pink Bloque, Laurie Jo Reynolds, and Daniel Tucker. The catalogue was published by a Danish arts organization and more details are here. Organizers say the event is free, but that it would be best if you "Bring a snack, take a snack".The event starts at 7pm and takes place at Mess Hall, 6932 North Glenwood Avenue.

Tape Findings and The Voicemail Project @ Caro d'Offay Gallery

Check out RJ Porter (Tape Findings) and Laura Kwerel (The Voicemail Project) display and play selections from their found audio archives. They will also be playing their audio through a sculpture by Jesse Seay.
Free, Caro d'Offay Gallery , 7-10pm., 2204 W. North Avenue.

We're Rollin' They're Hatin' Show Opening

"We're Rollin' They're Hatin'" is a large-scale contemporary art show that examines the role of Dungeons and Dragons, Escapism and Fantasy in contemporary art and culture. The exhibition is an art show and interactive platform to explore how artists are influenced by fantasy and roll-playing games. Opening night includes video screenings, performances, music and, of course, art at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan, beginning at 7pm.

New Artist Tour @ MCA

Hey, culture vultures? Looking for something free to do? Come check out a tour and talk by a new artist showing at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Amy Mayfield's colorfully sinister surreal landscapes evoke Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss's nonsensical illustrations. A massive new painting, Curdled sour marzipan and hidden leakage, contrasts intricate ink patterns with globs of raised paint that resemble animal figures and flora. The painting is comprised of four canvases hung side-by-side and is Mayfield's largest painting to date, spanning twenty feet across and over four feet high. It's free and starts at 6:30pm.

Lamp Workshop @ MCA

Learn at the MCA! Using collage, specialty papers, and a variety of other techniques, transform lampshades to create ambient lighting in your home. The class is led by Tara Strickstein, an art teacher at the InterAmerican Magnet School after-school program. It's $40 for members and $45 for the gen. pub. Class is from 1pm to 4pm.


Opening: Karl Wirsum @ Cultural Center

An exhibit featuring the vibrant and sometimes disturbing work of Chicago imagist artist Karl Wirsum opens today and runs through 24 June. Free, in the Exhibit Hall. 77 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

American Ruralist Movement @ Chicago City Arts Gallery

Attend the gallery opening of the American Ruralist Movement's first collective show at Chicago City Arts Gallery, 410 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 601. In addition to the art and wine, there will be two live Bluegrass music sets: 5:30-6:30 pm and 7:00-8:00 pm. The event is free and begins at 4:30pm and ends at 9pm. The exhibition runs from Friday, April 13 through Saturday, May 26.

The Most Naked Woman

Need a new volume for the "booty corner" of your home library? Everyone's fave Chicago burlesque diva Michelle L'amour is releasing her book "The Most Naked Woman" featuring artistic nudes from some of the country's most celebrated photographers including Bettie Page shooter Bunny Yeager. Michelle will be discussing and signing this new book at G Boutique at 2131 N. Damen Avenue in Chicago on Saturday, April 7, 2007. The event begins at 2:00 p.m. and is free of charge.

Wrath First Fridays @ MCA

April's wrath theme for First Fridays is the fourth of the seven deadly sins themes for First Fridays. The MCA invites guests to watch the Wheelers roller derby women skate on the MCA plaza, create voodoo dolls, destroy photo and paper memories of old loves at the "Shred Your Ex" station, watch kick-boxing demos by Equinox, listen to the sounds of DJ Megan Taylor and DJ Emily Hard, enjoy the iMac Digital Dating bar, and dine on Wolfgang Puck hors d'oeuvres. The event also unveils the April UBS 12 x 12: New Artists/New Work exhibition featuring local artist Amy Mayfield.

Admission includes complimentary treats catered by Wolfgang Puck. A cash bar is open until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

David van Alphen Opening @ Rotofugi Gallery

David van Alphen, artist and owner of DvA Gallery, shows new works at Rotofugi Gallery this month. The opening reception is tonight from 7pm to 11pm at 1953-55 W. Chicago Ave. More info here.

Chicago Spire Community Meeting @ Courtyard by Marriott

The Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (SOAR) will host an event for local residents to review the design plans for the Chicago Spire with the developer and the architect. Registration will begin at 5:45pm. and conclude by 7:00pm in the Ontario Room of the Courtyard by Marriott, 165 East Ontario Street. Visit the SOAR website for additional information.

KK Shirts Trunk Show

Katy Keefe, creator of The Lot Streetmarket in Wicker Park is having a trunk show Saturday at a local boutique in Logan Square, Wolfbait and B-Girls, 3131 W. Logan Blvd. She is supposed to show off KK Shirts new spring line from 1-5 p.m. and there will be free wine and music of some sort.

Artist Dialogue @ Experimental Station w/ Floyd Atkins and Dan S. Wang

The Experimental Station will host the South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC) to present a live dialogue with artists Floyd Atkins and Dan S. Wang. Please join us as Atkins and Wang discuss various topics centered on Atkins' current exhibition at the SSCAC entitled Reexamining America's Misconception. The event is co-sponsored by the SSCAC, Experimental Station and produced by Monk Parakeet, an independent cultural action group. The event will take place from noon-2pm at the Experimental Station, 6100 South Blackstone Ave.

Lillstreet Open House

Lillstreet Art Center is hosting an open house from 1-4 pm, with free workshops in every department, tours of open studios, food, drink, and the opening of the Animals and Insects group exhibition from 4-7 pm. Lillstreet (not actually on Lill Street anymore) is at 4401 N. Ravenswood, 773-769-4226.

Chagall Revealed @ Woman's Club of Evanston

Some people can't get enough of Marc Chagall. (That would be me.) Tonight, author Jonathan Wilson discusses his new biography tonight at 7 PM. 1702 Chicago Ave, Evanston. For tickets ($8) and more information, visit the Nextbook website.

Urban Typography, A Street Art Exhibit

During this inclement season, several of Chicago's most prolific and creative street artists have taken their work indoors for easier viewing at Urban Typography 2. It opens TONIGHT at Ageless Arts Tattoo at 2410 S. Kedzie between 24th and 25th Streets in Pilsen. The reception is from 7 pm to 11 pm.

This exhibit assembles different types of street art, including the new art board phenomenon as well as stencils, stickers and mixed-media work. You may not know Artillery, Saro, Nice-One and Mirian Vasquez by name, but you'll certainly recognize their work as seen around Chicago on Flickr. Get a tattoo! Check out some art! Have fun!

Visual Resistance Opening @ Cafe Mestizo

Café Mestizo, 1646 W. 18th Street, and CASA/ASAR-O collectives will present the "Visual Resistance" touring exhibit of stencil art and videos from recent political struggles in Oaxaca, Mexico. The action starts at 7pm, and prints will be sold as a fundraiser for the groups. Contact luis@sfalliance.org for more information.

12 X 12 Artist's Tour @ MCA

Looking for something free to do this evening? How about joining an artist for a tour of his new MCA exhibition? Tonight, David Schutter will lead a gallery tour of his exhibition. He'll share his knowledge of the Gemäldegalerie museum’s collection and insight into his process and inspirations.

Beasts! Release Party @ Quimby's

Beasts!, an illustration collection curated by Jacob Covey and featuring several Chicago-based artists, celebrates its release at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., tonight at 7pm. A bunch of the contributors will be on hand to sign books, including Dan Grzeca, Jason Robards, Little Friends of Printmaking, Anders Nilsen, Julie Murphy and Justin B. Williams. Read Kara Luger's preview and interview with the Little Friends in Book Club.

Sadie Benning Video Installation Debut

While still in her teens, Sadie Benning emerged as a key figure in video art with a series of introspective low-tech tapes that challenged the norms of gender and identity. Over the intervening years, Benning steadfastly maintained her independence, pursuing work in music (Le Tigre), drawing and animation, and in the process creating a singular body of work. Now the subject of a major monographic exhibition at the Wexner Center for the Arts, Benning returns to her adopted hometown to discuss her recent work and to screen Play Pause, her debut video installation. Co-sponsored by The School of the Art Institute Visiting Artist Program and the Video Data Bank. The Screening will take place on Wednesday, March 7, 6 p.m. at the School of the Art Institute Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive
tickets $5 general public, $3 students, seniors, and SAIC alumni

Tuesday's w/the Art Center

This Tuesday the Hyde Park Art Center presents artist Darrell Roberts who will discuss his current exhibition, Luscious. Stay for a hands-on painting activitiy as well as coffee, tea, cookies and general socializing. This monthly series is open the public with $5 suggested donation. Come to 5020 S. Cornell Ave. from 1-2:30pm. For more information, call 773-324-5520.

God's Punk @ Hyde Park Art Center

Both exhibition and performance, Max King Cap presents a media opera that "questions conditions of our shared humanity while testing the limits of our compassion and complacency towards injustice." Tonight's special live performance starts at 5pm and is open to the public with $5 suggested donation; reservations are required. The exhibition will run through April 8 at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

"Impaired Visions" Opening @ District 13 Gallery

“Impaired Visions,” a show of more than 18 artists ranging from traditional, graffiti, comic book, abstract and street art, opens tonight at District 13 Gallery, 1706 W. Chicago Ave. Each artist collaborated with another artist to create one of a kind pieces on canvas, wood, skate decks, paper and assorted other items. DJs Pickel and J. Lee spin, and drinks will be served. 6-10pm, free.

Slavery and Visual Culture Conference @ Block Museum

Out of Sight is a two-day conference marking the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, which will take place March 2-3rd at the Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art, Northwestern University in Evanston at 40 Arts Circle Drive. Involving scholars from various locations in the Americas impacted by the slave trade, presenters address the relationship between the visual and slavery. The event will begin at 930am on Friday and will include speakers throughout the day and again on Saturday. The keynote speaker is Fred Wilson, famous for his critical manipulations of art institution's permanent collections to retell histories of colonialism and slavery. The conference is free and open to the general public, though registration is encouraged, so either use the form or contact outofsight@northwestern.edu.

Shawnimal Smith's "Totally Radish" Opening @ Rotofugi Gallery

Shawnimal Smith premiers a solo show of art based around his new line, Totally Radish, at Rotofugi Gallery, 1955 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Limited edition plush radishes will be available for purchase, along with t-shirts and buttons. Free beer, DJ set by Sean Doe.

Exhibit Exploring the Chicago DIY Landscape

On March 1 from 5-8pm check out the opening reception of "Pass It On: Connecting Contemporary Do-It-Yourself Culture" @ Art & Design Gallery of Columbia College, 619 S. Wabash Ave. The Show Runs from March 1 – April 14, 2007 and will include several workshops and public events including an event on March 29th with AREA Chicago, New World Resource Center, Optional Events and Gapers Block about local events calendars and email announcement lists. There will also be workshops about sewing, mahjong, self-publishing and knowing your rights throghout the month and a half. The exhibit was Curated by Kevin Henry, Doro Boehme, and Lindsay Bosch.

Sex Workers' Art Show @ Abbey

Celebrate the art, dance and writings of some of the nation's premier burlesque artists, smut actors, and sex activists at the Chicago stop of the Sex Workers' Art Show Tour.

On March 1 at 7:30 pm, the Abbey is playing host to an amazing evening of poetry, performance and talent featuring acclaimed Whitney Biennial artist Julie Atlas Muz; award-winning author of How I Learned to Snap Kirk Read;
international burlesque sensation Miss Dirty Martini; and many more.
The show is an eye-popping evening of visual and performance art created by people
who work in the sex industry to dispel the myth that they are anything short of
artists, innovators, and geniuses! The $20 ticket price benefits the Young Women's Empowerment Project.

Micromentalism Art Show

Second show of local artist Patrick W. Welch's new Micromentalism art movement (small and challenging art at small and unchallenging prices) takes place at Butcher Shop / Dogmatic Gallery, Saturday February 24, 2007, 6 to 10 p.m., 1319 W. Lake St., 3rd Fl., Chicago 60607

Micromentalism Art Show

First show of local artist Patrick W. Welch's new Micromentalism art movement (small and challenging art at small and unchallenging prices) takes place at Fifty50 Gallery, Friday February 23, 2007, 6 to 10 p.m., 1017 W. Lake St., Chicago 60607 Show runs through March 31, 2007

"Baby Chicago" Opens @ Green Lantern

See a fair the likes of which you have never seen before! Twenty artists create a tableau recreating some real or imagined element of the city on a smaller scale, with summertime and hot dogs in mind. Among other attractions, Stephen Eichorn presents the Band Shell, Max Scoppettone installs Lake Michigan, Lilli Carre and Alexander Stewart curate a tiny movie theatre, and Chresten Sorensen provides Wrigley Field and beer. The Beers Tower, a scale model of the Sears Tower made out of Hamm's beer cans, built by Lauren Anderson resides at the center of the miniature city. A ribbon-cutting ceremony starts the festivities tonight at 7:30pm, and festivities continue throughout the weekend.

Friday, Feb. 23: Dance me DJ party with Fenchel and E, 7:30pm-9pm
Saturday Feb. 24: Live music performance by Bird Names, doors open at 8pm
Sunday Feb. 25: Bike-In Cinema presents selected films by Tom Palazzolo and Adventures In Babysitting, starting at 6:30pm

$3 suggested donation each night, BYOB. The show closes on Saturday, March 4.

COMA 9

The California Occidental Museum of Art presents COMA 9, a collection of local artists' works. Participants include Lilli Carre, Chuck Jones, Bert Stabler, EC Brown and more. The show runs Saturday, 7pm-10pm with beer and wine, and Sunday, 12pm-5pm with coffee and tea, at 1626 N. California Ave. #2. Email erik[at]ecbrown[dot]org for more information.

COMA 9

The California Occidental Museum of Art presents COMA 9, a collection of local artists' works. Participants include Lilli Carre, Chuck Jones, Bert Stabler, EC Brown and more. The show runs Saturday, 7pm-10pm with beer and wine, and Sunday, 12pm-5pm with coffee and tea, at 1626 N. California Ave. #2. Email erik[at]ecbrown[dot]org for more information.

Repicturing Photos Workshop @ the MCA

Remember when you thought you were a world class photographer destined for greatness and then you realized everything just looks really cool through a pinhole camera? Cheryl Pope, a fashion graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, teaches you why, and how to make things look really, really cool, as well as other photo and framing techniques. Space is limited so sign up soon if you're interested. $40 for members, $45 for the rest of us; 1-4pm at the MCA; 220 East Chicago Avenue.

Crocheted Fiberglass Demo @ Chicago Tourism Center

Crocheted fiberglass? That's what artist Yvette Kaiser Smith's sculptures are made of, and today from 11 AM to 4 PM you can browse through displays that show her work at various stages, from raw fiberglass to finished piece. You can then take a shot at crocheting some fiberglass yourself. Just to say you've done it. Complimentary materials are provided. Free. 72 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-2400 or visit the website.

Opening: Cezanne to Picasso @ AIC

This exhibit, which just left New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art last month, "celebrates the legendary career of art dealer, publisher, and collector Ambrose Vollard (1866-1939)." And how do we celebrate? With great art by Gaugin, Van Gogh, Bonnard, and others--including works never before seen in Chicago. Can you tell I'm excited? Through 12 May. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Around The Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Once again hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, performance artists, poets, and filmmakers exhibit and sell their work in various galleries around the Milwaukee-North-Damen six corners in Wicker Park. Tours and lectures are available and there are various after parties. Details on the website. $10 for a day pass, $40 for all access; Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm @ various locations in Wicker Park.

Around The Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Once again hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, performance artists, poets, and filmmakers exhibit and sell their work in various galleries around the Milwaukee-North-Damen six corners in Wicker Park. Tours and lectures are available and there are various after parties. Details on the website. $10 for a day pass, $40 for all access; Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm @ various locations in Wicker Park.

Around The Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Once again hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, performance artists, poets, and filmmakers exhibit and sell their work in various galleries around the Milwaukee-North-Damen six corners in Wicker Park. Tours and lectures are available and there are various after parties. Details on the website. $10 for a day pass, $40 for all access; Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm @ various locations in Wicker Park.

Around the Coyote Opening Party @ the AtC Gallery

It's that time of year again. The Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival kicks off tonight with a party at the weekend-long event's home base near the Milwaukee-North-Damen six corners. Curator selected work will be on display for a silent action and Las Palmas (which did an excellent job in the spring) will be catering as well as providing libations. DJs will spin, organizers will raffle off prizes and you can get a sneak peek at the artist's work on display for the weekend. $20; 8pm-12am @ the AtC Gallery; 1935 ½ W North Ave.

Sketch Monday

Join other artists and sketchers at Tantrum, 1023 S. State, from 7:30pm on tonight to talk, share your sketchbook and/or just draw on your own at Sketch Monday, a new bi-weekly event (no, really, it'll be bi-weekly after this one). 21 and over, no cover.

Sacred Art First Anniversary Events

Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village boutique that showcases affordable art made by Chicago artists, is celebrating its first year in business with a remodeled space and a slew of nifty events. Stop by the shop today from 3-5 pm for free clairvoyant readings and a raffle.

Q & ART @ The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute kicks off its February Free Days by posting curators, conservators, and educators throughout the gallery to give talks and answer questions. Lectures, concerts and the such will run all day. Details on the AIC's event page. Free to the public; 10am-5pm at the Art Institute; 111 S Michigan Ave.

HOT MESS Closing Party

HOT MESS, an exhibition of paintings by Caleb Lyons and Peter Hoffman, closes tonight with a "ceremony" including live improvised music by local saxophonist Celia Whiren and Jacob Christopher on laptop. These musical artists will be collaborating in response to the painting exhibition HOT MESS by Caleb Lyons and Peter Hoffman. Doors open at 8pm, BYOB, with a $5 suggested donation (all proceeds go to the musicians.) The Green Lantern,1511 N Milwaukee Ave., second floor.

Sacred Art First Anniversary Events

Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village boutique that showcases affordable art made by Chicago artists, is celebrating its first year in business with a remodeled space and a slew of nifty events. Stop by the shop tonight from 7-9 pm for the Grand Reopening Party, a raffle, and free mini-massages. Update: This evening's festivities will also include the Frances Jewelry Design Demo and Trunk Show, moved from Sunday because of that football thing.

Tense Forms: Winter Showcase @ Subterranean

Tense Forms, the collaborative multi-disciplinary, project-based workgroup led by Joshua Dumas, is holding their 2nd annual Winter Showcase at Subterranean tonight from 8pm onwards. The showcase features an insane amount of buttons (1000+), a wall of televisions screening all kinds of visual art as well as live music.

Click It! @ Skylight Studios

So you're into fashion? How cool would it be to meet some fashion photographers? For $10, come browse the work of several Chicago photographers and mingle "while enjoying warm chocolate drinks and treats." 1956 W Grand, 7 PM. Call 312-742-8497 for tickets.

Sketch Monday @ Tantrum

Join other artists and sketchers at Tantrum, 1023 S. State, from 7:30pm on tonight to talk, share your sketchbook and/or just draw on your own at Sketch Monday, a new bi-weekly event. 21 and over, no cover.

Trinie Dalton and Steve Krakow @ Quimby's

Tonight at 8pm at Quimby's bookstore, Arthur Magazine and Drag City present: Trinie Dalton is the author of Wide Eyed (Akashic) and co-editor of Dear New Girl Or Whatever Your Name Is (McSweeney's). She has published zines such as Werewolf Express and Touch of Class/Sweet California Unicorns and has contributed to a variety of magazines such as Arthur, Nerve and The Believer. Ms. Dalton will talk with Steve Krakow (Galactic Zoo Dossier, Plastic Crimewave Sound) about zines and other subcultural things.

Aaron Belz @ Hyde Park Art Center

Author Aaron Belz is this year's first reading in the Series A schedule at the Hyde Park Art Center. This free reading starts at 7:00 PM in the 4833 Conference Room/Thurow Digital Lab at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. For more information, visit the Hyde Park Art Center's calendar for more information.

David Schutter @ Hyde Park Art Center

Conversation with artist David Schutter, University of Chicago Visiting Artist and Lecturer in the Visual Arts Department. This free talk starts at 6:00 PM in the 4833 Conference Room/Thurow Digital Lab at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. For more information, visit the Center's calendar for more information.

Playing with Your Food @ Chicago Cultural Center

Ten professional artists will demonstrate how to sculpt food into jewelry, wrapping paper and other unique items. The event runs from 12:00-4:00 PM at G.A.R. Hall in the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 E. Washington St. Free. For more information visit the Center's calendar.

Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle

If you're interested in handmade jewelry, clothing, handbags, and other artsy items, head to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., from noon to 4:30pm for the Handmade Market. Check out http://www.handmadechicago.com/ for more details.

Opening: Far from Home @ AIC

Part of the museum's celebration of Silk Road Chicago, this exhibit explores the impact of travel on ten 20th century photographers in the AIC's collection. Through 6 May. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Approach @ Ai Gallery

The opening reception for Ai Gallery's new exhibit, "Approach," will be run from 6:00-10:00 PM. The exhibit is curated by Research & Development and includes manipulated objects by JB Daniel as well as collaborations by Industry of the Ordinary. Ai Gallery is located at 676 North LaSalle Drive (at Huron). For more information, visit the website of Ai Gallery or R&D.

Opening: Prairie Skyscraper @ Archicenter

The Chicago Architecture Foundation presents this exhibit about Frank Lloyd Wright's Price Tower, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, through 29 April. The exhibit tells the story of the building's design and construction with letters, photographs, and other documents, and also displays components of the building itself, including textiles and furniture. 224 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Laura Kipnis, Barbara J. King, and Lauren Sand Reading @ Hopleaf Bar

Bookslut presents a reading by authors Laura Kipnis, Barbara J. King, and Lauren Sand at the Hopleaf Bar. The reading will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Hopleaf Bar, 5148 N. Clark Street, in Andersonville (Argyle or Berwyn Redline El stops, Clark or Damen bus).

Africa.Dot.Com Drums to Digital @ Glass Curtain Gallery

Columbia College's Africa.Dot.Com exhibit opens at the Glass Curtain Gallery, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. Visit their calendar for more information.

Opening: David Philpot: Staffs of Tradition @ Cultural Center

This exhibit includes around 25 wooden walking sticks cut from the local stinkwood tree (is it a coincidence that both this tree and the stinky onion are indigenous to Chicago?) and carved and decorated by Chicago artist David Philpot. In the Michigan Galleries through 11 March. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Peter Wexler: Reflections @ Cultural Center

Check out these large-scale color photographs of Venice, which has been called the most beautiful city in the world. (Of course, whoever said that never saw Chicago.) In the Michigan Galleries through 11 March. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Hot Mess

Green Lantern gallery presents "Hot Mess," an exhibition that features six months of the collaborative paintings of local artists Peter Hoffman and Caleb Lyons. Tonight's opening reception runs from 7-10pm; the show will be open through February 4. 1511 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd Floor. Call 773-266-4234 for more information.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Learn to make art the right way -- under the influence -- in the Hyde Park Art Center's Cocktails & Clay event series. The Center is kept open late so visitors can learn handbuilding, coils or just play with the clay. If you're feeling more social than creative, there will also be drinks, DJs, dancing and tours of the Center's latest exhibitions. 8pm-12am at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. A donation of $5 is suggested and all proceeds benefit HPAC programs. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Anthony Lewellen Art Opening

"Gray Matters," a new show of drawings by Chicago artist Anthony Lewellen, opens tonight at Bar None, 6962 N. Glenwood Ave., from 7pm till midnight. DJ Tevo Howard spins. (21 and over)

Final Free Teatime with the Buddha @ LUMA

This Tuesday is tha final "Teatime with the Buddha." Sit, meditate and relax with the installation piece, Paranirvana, by Lewis de Soto (and, of course, have some tea). Event runs from 5:00-7:00 PM in the third floor gallery of the Simpson Lecture Hall at 820 N. Michigan Ave. For more information, visit the Loyola University Museum of Art calendar.

Breaking Ground: The Story of the Oriental Institute @ Oriental Institute

View a Chicago Public Television film documenting the history of the Oriental Institute and its current projects. Follow up on the film by walking the galleries with docents. The entire event is free and starts at 2:00 PM in the Oriental Institute's Breasted Hall, 1155 East 58th Street. Visit the Institute's calendar for more information.

Opening: Merle Temkin's Fingerprints @ Cultural Center

New York-based artist Merle Temkin's paintings and other works on paper are self-portraits based on enlargements of her fingerprints. Talk about unique! The exhibit includes installations designed to be responsive to the gallery space. In the Michigan Galleries through 4 March. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

INFLUENC-ZA Opening Reception

INFLUENC-ZA, a group art show of art by Jonathan Gitelson, Burtonwood & Holmes, Greg Stimac, Scott Wilke, Anni Rossi and Anni Holm, whose art responds to the bombardment of imagery concerning excessiveness, obsessiveness, consumerism and pure waste. The opening receptions is tonight from 6pm to 10pm at Allrise Gallery, 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Chicago Premiere: Unauthorized and Proud of it @ Gene Siskel Film Center

Chicago filmmaker Iko Davidov's "Unauthorized and Proud of it: Todd Loren's Rock 'n' Roll Comics" will premiere at 8:15 PM as part of the Center's Stranger than Fiction documentary series. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located at 164 North State Street. For more information, visit the Film Center's calendar.

Celebrating Cities--London, Paris, Chicago @ The Art Institute of Chicago

If you have a free 30 minutes during lunch hour, head over to the Art Institute for an interesting-sounding express talk. The event starts at noon in Gallery 100 and is free, although you'll still need to pay admission. The Art Institute is located at 111 South Michigan Avenue.

Stitch and Bitch @ MCA

The first Tuesday of every month is Stitch and Bitch night at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The event is free and starts at 5:30 PM in the Cafe, located at 220 East Chicago Avenue. Visit the MCA calendar for more information.

Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle

If you're interested in handmade jewelry, clothing, handbags, and other artsy items, head to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., from noon to 4:30pm for the Handmade Market. Check out http://www.handmadechicago.com/ for more details.

Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale @ Pulaski Park

Over 100 arts and crafts vendors, 2 food vendors, and 12 djs will keep you occupied from 12pm to 5pm at Pulaski Park, 1419 W. Blackhawk St. For more information, visit http://renegadecraftfair.com.

Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale @ Pulaski Park

Over 100 arts and crafts vendors, 2 food vendors, and 12 djs will keep you occupied from 12pm to 5pm at Pulaski Park, 1419 W. Blackhawk St. For more information, visit http://renegadecraftfair.com.

Gabrielle Bell, Kevin Huizenga and Anders Nilsen @ Quimby's

Gabrielle Bell (Lucky), Kevin Huizenga (Curses) and Anders Nilsen (Big Questions, Don't Go Where I Can't Follow) discuss their new work from Drawn & Quarterly with Anne Elizabeth Moore of Punk Planet. Event begins at 7:00 PM at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave. For information, visit the Quimby's event page.

The Last Steve Lacy Exhibition @ VONZWECK

The bafflingly amorphous local art collective Academy Records is an ellusive and intriguing entity on the Chicago art scene. Multi-disciplinary in output, the group is a collaborative project involving dozens of artists that manifests itself in an unpredictable, cryptic (and sometimes silly) series of public works and performances. Tonight sees the presentation of the solo work of one of the group's members, Stephen Lacy. Officially titled "Legendary Fountain/Leave the Country (everyone knows this is nowhere)," the exhibition is reportedly a "farewell" showing of the artist's prior work -- a parting shot before Steve surrenders his identity to the AR collective persona. At VONZWECK, 6-9pm. 1626 N. Humboldt Bvld.

Tuttle Talk @ MCA

Whatcha doin' for lunch? Why not take a FREE tour of the Richard Tuttle exhibit at the MCA? Join curator Julie Rodrigues Widholm at noon and learn alla bout Tuttle’s paintings and sculptures and charts his evolving style and mediums. The exhibition brings together more than 300 significant works from collections worldwide and unifies Tuttle’s four-decade career in the most comprehensive presentation of his work ever mounted.

Alex Kotlowitz @ 57th Street Books

Alex Kotlowitz, author of There Are No Children Here and The Other Side of the River will read from his most recent work, Never a City So Real: A Walk in Chicago at 7:30pm. 57th Street Books is located at 1301 E. 57th Street in Hyde Park. The suggested donation for attendance is $10. For more information call 773.334-8255 or visit: http://www.litworks.org.

DEPART-ment @ Open End Gallery

It's time again for one of the quarterly DEPART-ment craft fairs at Open-End gallery. This awesome idea to bring you a department store-style set up of some of the absolute best indie Chicago crafts happens just in time to get your holiday shopping done. Items will be arranged by category, with one convenient checkout station at the end. Cash only (ATM on site). Open-End is located at 2000 W. Fulton, #310 (at Damen, just south of Grand) . Give them a call for more info at (312) 560-1442. The sale runs Dec. 1 (Friday) night from 7pm-11pm, Dec. 2 (Saturday) 11am-5pm and Dec. 3 (Sunday) 11am-5pm.

DEPART-ment @ Open End Gallery

It's time again for one of the quarterly DEPART-ment craft fairs at Open-End gallery. This awesome idea to bring you a department store-style set up of some of the absolute best indie Chicago crafts happens just in time to get your holiday shopping done. Items will be arranged by category, with one convenient checkout station at the end. Cash only (ATM on site). Open-End is located at 2000 W. Fulton, #310 (at Damen, just south of Grand) . Give them a call for more info at (312) 560-1442. The sale runs Dec. 1 (Friday) night from 7pm-11pm, Dec. 2 (Saturday) 11am-5pm and Dec. 3 (Sunday) 11am-5pm.

Holiday Bazaar

Can't get enough crafting or art? Then head on over Wood Street Gallery (1239 N Wood Street) today from 10-6pm and see a great combination of handmade goods that someone on your holiday shopping list would love to have. Like most shows, admission is free but purchasing is recommended. See a list of vendors here.

Brian Ulrich Opening @ Rhona Hoffman Gallery

Photographer Brian Ulrich debuts his new collection, "Thrift," tonight at Rhona Hoffman Gallery, 118 North Peoria St., from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Ulrich says "'Thrift' focuses on the used up discards and strange still lives
in thrift and resale stores as well as the laborers who sort through our
cast-offs and render them anew." Sneak peeks at Not If But When.

The Art of Thrifting

You've gotta hotfoot it to the Rhona Hoffman Gallery at 118 N. Peoria St. this Friday to check out the Thrift opening. This show by Brian Ulrich takes a look at what ends up in thrift stores as well as the folks who work in them. Reception from 5:30 pm to 7 pm.

DEPART-ment @ Open End Gallery

It's time again for one of the quarterly DEPART-ment craft fairs at Open-End gallery. This awesome idea to bring you a department store-style set up of some of the absolute best indie Chicago crafts happens just in time to get your holiday shopping done. Items will be arranged by category, with one convenient checkout station at the end. Cash only (ATM on site). Open-End is located at 2000 W. Fulton, #310 (at Damen, just south of Grand) . Give them a call for more info at (312) 560-1442. The sale runs Dec. 1 (Friday) night from 7pm-11pm, Dec. 2 (Saturday) 11am-5pm and Dec. 3 (Sunday) 11am-5pm.

Holiday Bazaar

Can't get enough crafting or art? Then head on over Wood Street Gallery (1239 N Wood Street) tonight from 5-9pm and see a great combination of handmade goods that someone on your holiday shopping list would love to have. Like most shows, admission is free but purchasing is recommended. See a list of vendors here.

Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle

If you're interested in handmade jewelry, clothing, handbags, and other artsy items, head to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., from noon to 4:30pm for the Handmade Market. Check out http://www.handmadechicago.com/ for more details.

Vomitorium with AgitProp @ 40000

Make this Thanksgiving weekend into a Roman holiday as the gallery 40000 presents Vomitorium With AgitProp, a one-night-only art opening and party curated by Chicago multimedia artist Philip von Zweck. Featuring contributions from over a dozen local artists (and a few out-of-towners), the event reportedly will feature artworks that address "the excesses that define and destroy contemporary American culture." The decadence takes place from 7pm-midnight. 119 N. Peoria, #2C. Free.

Art show @ Sacred Art

Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village store that sells hand-made wares from local crafters, presents its final art show of the year. Come see new artwork by Anastasia Makarenko, Joe Smigielski, and Citizen Shay. There will also be complimentary drinks and massages by Roscoe Village masseuse Brandy Ware. The show happens tonight from 7:00 to 9:00, and admission is free. Sacred Art: 2040 W. Roscoe. (773) 404-8790.

Reinventing a Field @ Cultural Center

This panel features artists from the ongoing Material Difference exhibition, as well as curator Polly Ullrich, talking about "the past, present, and future of fiber art." In the First Floor Garland Room at 6 PM. Free. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Davin Youngs Photography @ Darkroom

Davin Youngs's photography is at once calm and charged. Calm: the images are often bathed in the sort of gauzy light you expect in a Sofia Coppola film; charged: there's an apparent intimacy that's slightly unsettling, as the viewer is foist into the artist's subjectivity (a position even present in the self-portraits, which veer between narcissism and soul-searching). Appropriate, then, that his exhibition at Darkroom in Ukrainian Village (2210 W. Chicago, btw. Damen and Western) is called "Shoot What You Know." The show, which will be up through mid-January, opens tonight with a reception from 9-11pm.

Massive Change and the City Symposium @ The Harris Theater

The Museum of Contemporary Art and the City of Chicago Department of Environment will host a one-day symposium, Massive Change and the City to discuss the impact of urban life on the world. The event will run from 10 am - 5:30 pm and be hosted by Bruce Mau, Massive Change guest curator, and John Callaway, host of WTTW's Friday Night and the Chicago Stories anthology series. The program will include five panels: City Planet: Urban Space and the Marketplace; Movement and Energy; Designing Evolution; and Wealth and Politics: Is Life in the City Getting Better. Tickets are available through http://www.harristheaterchicago.org/ and the Harris box office for $100, $75 for MCA members. The Harris Theater for Music and Dance is located at 205 East Randolph Drive.

Schadenfreude Rent Party @ Gallery Cabaret

Sketch comedy ensemble Schadenfreude will perform their monthly new content showcase at 8 PM at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley in Chicago’s Bucktown. The suggested donation is $10. Visit www.schadenfreude.net or call 773.489.5471 for more information.

The Ragdale 30th Anniversary Exhibition @ Cultural Center

Chicago-based critic Margaret Hawkins has curated this exhibit of work by visual artists who have stayed at the Ragdale Foundation artist retreat. Ragdale, which is in Lake Forest, is the fourth largest artist community in the country. Check it out, you might even get inspired to apply! In the Chicago Rooms through 13 January. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

The RIDER Project @ Gene Siskel Film Center

The RIDER Project is a mobile art gallery located in the back of a Ryder truck, presenting multi-week, multi-venue public art shows throughout the country. While in Chicago, it will include painting, sculpture, photography, video and mixed media contemporary artworks of four NYC artists, curated by School of the Art Institute students. It will be exhibiting in front of the Gene Siskel Film Center on 164 North State Street. See http://www.art-anon.org or call 646-245-9801 for more information.

Site Unseen @ Cultural Center

Site-specific performance pieces and installations, created especially for the Cultural Center and curated by performance artist Julie Laffin, comprise this one-night festival that takes place throughout the rooms, halls, and stairwells of this beautiful beaux arts building. Wander around from 6 PM to 9 PM. Free. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

SOFA Chicago -- the Sculptural Objects and Functional Art Expo -- runs Friday through Sunday in the Festival Hall on Navy Pier this weekend. Wear out your eyes and your feet viewing selections from 99 galleries and countless artists. Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 students/seniors, or $25 for all three days. Hours are:
Fri 11/10 - 11am - 8pm
Sat. 11/11 - 11am - 8pm
Sun. 11/12 - 12pm - 6pm

Opening: I Love the 80s! @ Johnsonese Gallery

Johnsonese Gallery is hosting an opening party for their latest collection, "I Love the 80s!" The pieces in the collection include works by LeRoy Neiman, Kurt Sala, Gil Gorski, Rudolf Svehla, Valgerdur Hauksdottir and more. Free and open to the public from 7-9pm at 2149 W. Armitage Ave. The show will run through December 2. Call 773-252-8750 for more information.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

SOFA Chicago -- the Sculptural Objects and Functional Art Expo -- runs Friday through Sunday in the Festival Hall on Navy Pier this weekend. Wear out your eyes and your feet viewing selections from 99 galleries and countless artists. Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 students/seniors, or $25 for all three days. Hours are:
Fri 11/10 - 11am - 8pm
Sat. 11/11 - 11am - 8pm
Sun. 11/12 - 12pm - 6pm

Wood Art Tour

If you're a big fan of sculpture, furniture, and other artifacts made of wood, check out this tour sponsored by the Aesthetic Eye gallery. Designed for wood art collectors, stops include visits to two galleries as well as a private collector's home, and the $60 price includes lunch, refreshments, and bus transportation. For more information, call 312-243-1520 or visit the website.

SOFA @ Navy Pier

SOFA Chicago -- the Sculptural Objects and Functional Art Expo -- runs Friday through Sunday in the Festival Hall on Navy Pier this weekend. Wear out your eyes and your feet viewing selections from 99 galleries and countless artists. Tickets are $15 general admission, $12 students/seniors, or $25 for all three days. Hours are:
Fri 11/10 - 11am - 8pm
Sat. 11/11 - 11am - 8pm
Sun. 11/12 - 12pm - 6pm

Laura Baxter @ MCA

Meet contemporary jewelry designer Laura Baxter, who creates precious metal sheet and wire designs inspired by nature. The event runs from 6:30pm-8:30pm at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago Avenue. Call 312.280.2660 additional information.

Opening: Against the Grain @ Aesthetic Eye

This group exhibition features stunning furniture, sculpture, and wall art created by skilled woodworkers. The opening reception begins at 5 PM tonight, and the exhibit runs through 23 December. Free, 1520 W Chicago. For more information, call 312-243-1520 or visit the website.

SOFA Preview Party

SOFA Chicago -- the Sculptural Objects and Functional Art Expo -- runs Friday through Sunday in the Festival Hall on Navy Pier this weekend, but if you're willing to spend $50, you can get in tonight from 7pm to 10pm for the preview party. Mingle with the city's top art patrons and get an early peek at the hundreds of works presented by 99 international galleries. More info here.

Haybales and Honeyballs Opening @ BuzzCo.

Start the weekend early at the Haybales and Honeyballs opening reception tonight from 5 to 9 pm at The Buzz Company, 62 W. Huron, 2nd floor. The show features art by Ezekial Brown, Karen Azarnia, Mario Salvatori, Julie Mackowiak, David Cuesta, Alexdrina Chong, Liz Nielsen, Mike Segawa, Lucas Buick, Darick Maasen, Studio of the Month, Clayton Hauck and Christa Holka. Free.

Cut & Paste Live Design Competition

Cut&Paste is a live graphic design head-to-head competition, tonight from 7pm to 10 pm at Crobar, 1543 N. Kingsbury. Come watch eight local up & coming designers compete before a panel of judges including Chuck Anderson of No Pattern and Jeffrey Kalmikoff of Threadless. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the door, 21+. Afterparty from 10pm on at Celebrity, 1856 W. North Ave.

Opening: Material Difference @ Cultural Center

This survey of contemporary fiber art, curated by independent critic Polly Ullrich, features more than 150 works by more than 100 artists from around the world. In the Exhibit Hall through 7 January. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Disruptions @ Cultural Center

This exhibit, which runs through 31 December, centers on cast-iron sculptures by Chicago artist Barbara Cooper. The sculptures "refer to organic processes of the natural world" and are displayed with related drawings. In the Michigan Avenue Galleries. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Tibetan Thangka @ AIC

As part of Silk Road Chicago, artist Gendun Saykal demonstrates Thangka painting, through 12 November in Gallery 142. 111 S Michigan. For more information, call 312- 443-3600 or visit the website.

Polly Ullrich Gallery Talk @ Cultural Center

The curator of the new fiber art exhibition, Material Difference, discusses her selections in the Exhibit Hall at 5:30 PM. Free. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Susan Fong: The Whimsy of Authenticity! @ Swim Cafe

Are you getting enough art in your diet? Well, if not why don't you dive on into a big plate of culture this weekend. Susan Fong in conjunction with the FongMoon Group and Swim Cafe, are holding an exibition of her recent Asian-inspired works. The Whimsy of Authenticity! is opening tonight with a reception from 7-9 pm. The show will run through Dec. 29.

Handmade Market @ Schuba's

If you're interested in handmade jewelry, clothing, handbags, and other artsy items, head to Schuba's, 3159 North Southport, from noon to 4:30 for the Handmade Market. Check out http://www.handmadechicago.com/ for more details.

Opening: Persian Visions @ Cultural Center

This exhibit of photography from Iran offers an intimate look at contemporary life in a country largely obscure to most Americans. Through 31 December, in the Michigan Avenue Galleries. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Chicago Calling 24hr Arts Fest

From midnight on Wednesday through midnight on Thursday, Chicago-based artists will showcase performances and projects that involve collaborations with artists living in other locations in the U.S. and worldwide in "Chicago Calling." The collaborations between Chicago-based artists and those living elsewhere could be prepared, improvised, or a combination of both. "For instance, a Chicago-based poet will be collaborating with a musician from Niger, a Chicago-based performance ensemble will be collaborating with a Malaysian musician, and so on. Some of the performances will involve live feeds between Chicago and elsewhere."

Venues include Elastic, Bloom Yoga Studio, Peter Jones Gallery, Café Mestizo, WNUR, The Hyde Park Art Center, Muse Café, The Empty Bottle, Quimby's, Mess Hall and The Hamlin Park Fieldhouse. Check the Chicago Calling website for a full list of artists and schedule, and check with individual venues for ticket price.

A.Lewellen Open Studio

In honor of Chicago Artists Month, artist Anthony Lewellen will be opening his garage studio at 5006 N. Keeler to the public from 1 to 5pm Saturday and today. Come check out new works, and purchase them from the man himself. Also, a special edition screen print will be run, signed and given away to visitors, an exclusive to this open studio.

A.Lewellen Open Studio

In honor of Chicago Artists Month, artist Anthony Lewellen will be opening his garage studio at 5006 N. Keeler to the public from 1 to 5pm today and tomorrow. Come check out new works, and purchase them from the man himself. Also, a special edition screen print will be run, signed and given away to visitors, an exclusive to this open studio.

Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle

If you're interested in handmade jewelry, clothing, handbags, and other artsy items, head to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., from noon to 4:30pm for the Handmade Market. Check out http://www.handmadechicago.com/ for more details.

Chicago Art Open Benefit

The Chicago Art Open is an eight year event where local artists are given the opportunity to show their works in a "non-juried professional setting." Tonight's benefit features music by Sam Saunders, Chicago Udu Calls and Graymail. The Special Achievement Award for Service to the Visual Arts in Chicago will also be given, post-humously, to Michael Piazza. Food and drink included. Admission to the 6-11pm event is $20 per person. 1029 W. 35th St. at the Zhou B. Art Center. Call 312-781-0040 for reservations and information.

Architecture Foundation's "Churches by Bus" Tour

Join a group from the Chicago Architecture Foundation today for a one-time event: a tour of local churches by bus. This year's trip will roam the South Side, visiting Roman Catholic, Methodist and Memorial Baptist churches, as well as the University of Chicago's Rockefeller Memorial Chapel. Tickets are $48 ($40 for members), and reservations are required. The tour starts at 11:30am at the Foundation's ArchiCenter Shop. For further details and tickets, visit the website.

Opening: Spirits III @ Aesthetic Eye

Aesthetic Eye Gallery is holding an opening reception for their latest group show, "Spirits III." The show features paintings by Isabel Alvarez Mac Lean, Lisa Hutler, Mei Huang and Brian Garay; mixed media sculpture by Joan Zgoda and Scott W. Pearson; and photography by Brian Patrick. The show runs through November 5. Free and open to the public from 6-10pm. Aesthetic Eye is located at 1520 W. Chicago Ave. Call 312-243-1520 for more information.

Cocktails & Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center

Learn to make art the right way -- under the influence! The Hyde Park Art Center is offering a new event series, Cocktails & Clay, for which the Center is kept open late to teach handbuilding and coils or just allow visitors to play with the clay. If you're feeling more social than creative, there will also be drinks, DJs, dancing and tours of the Center's latest exhibitions. 8pm-12am at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. A donation of $5 is suggested and all proceeds benefit HPAC programs. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Art View in Lakeview

Come check out five different Lakeview galleres, all representing local and international artists with different visions of art. You can start the tour at any of the five locations: The Leigh Gallery at 3306 N. Halsted, Slaymaker Gallery at 934-936 W. Roscoe, Art De Triumph at 2936 N. Clark, Chicago Room Gallery at 3318 N. Halsted, or John Galt Gallery at 3222 N. Clark. 5-10pm and free to all with trollies in between the stops. Call 773-472-1865 for more informaton.

ArtWalk Ravenswood

ArtWalk Ravenswood is featuring a documentary photography exhibit of the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor. The exhibit by Andrew Steiner "explores the diverse population of this quietly productive area within a historical context." The Walk is in its fifth year and offers events, tours, open studios and the opportunity to view art in numerous galleries. Check out the website to find every last moresel of arty goodness. Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday and Sunday, 12-5pm.

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

Come see new works by Cornelias Arts Building residents and Friends of the Arts members. Friends of the Arts is a nonprofit arts support group that specializes in promoting emerging art and artists. Located at 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., this weekend's open house is free and open to the public from 12-6pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Call 773-935-1854 for more information.

ArtWalk Ravenswood

ArtWalk Ravenswood is featuring a documentary photography exhibit of the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor. The exhibit by Andrew Steiner "explores the diverse population of this quietly productive area within a historical context." The Walk is in its fifth year and offers events, tours, open studios and the opportunity to view art in numerous galleries. Check out the website to find every last moresel of arty goodness. Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday and Sunday, 12-5pm.

Cornelia Arts Building Open House

Come see new works by Cornelias Arts Building residents and Friends of the Arts members. Friends of the Arts is a nonprofit arts support group that specializes in promoting emerging art and artists. Located at 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., this weekend's open house is free and open to the public from 12-6pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Call 773-935-1854 for more information.

Opening: Biomorphic Rhythms

Tonight Johnsonese Gallery welcomes "Biomorphic Rhythms," a solo show featuring the "whimsical, symmetrical, and free-form" paintings of Bruce Noel Mortenson. Mortenson is also a profession DJ and will spin at the opening reception, 7-10pm. 2149 W. Armitage; call 773-252-8750 for more information.

Opening: Photographs by the Score @ AIC

This exhibit takes the work of 45 noted photographers (among them: Eugene Atget, Imogen Cunningham, and Walker Evans) and compares their more recent work with work produced 20 years before. Cool, huh? Through 14 January. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Charles Sheeler @ AIC

One of the founders of American modernism, Sheeler worked in photography and film as well as drawing and painting. This exhibit is the first to examine the relationships between these media in Sheeler's work. Until 7 January, 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Steve Reber @ Around the Coyote

Around the Coyote hosts the body of Steve Reber's most recent work which "explores the visual and conceptual possibility of sculpture through spatial and material relationships." Tonight's opening reception is free and open the public from 7-11pm. The show will run through November 4. Around the Coyote is located at 1935 1/2 W. North Ave.; call 773-342-6777 for more information.

You Are Beautiful - 4 Years Later

You've surely seen these messages throughout the city. If you've ever wondered more about them, come to Ai Gallery tonight for a special reception of "You Are Beautiful - 4 Years Later." See what's happened in the four years since someone decided to use advertising for good, rather than for money. Ai Gallery is located at 676 N. LaSalle; free and open the public from 6-10pm. The show will run through November 18. Email info[at]ai-gallery[dot]com for more information.

ArtWalk Ravenswood

ArtWalk Ravenswood is featuring a documentary photography exhibit of the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor. The exhibit by Andrew Steiner "explores the diverse population of this quietly productive area within a historical context." The Walk is in its fifth year and offers events, tours, open studios and the opportunity to view art in numerous galleries. Check out the website to find every last moresel of arty goodness. Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday and Sunday, 12-5pm.

Opening: Eat Your Art Out @ Wishbone

Wishbone Restaurant is taking a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between food and art while highlighting artists with developmental disabilites. Tonight's free reception for Eat Your Art Out is from 2-4pm at 3300 N. Lincoln Ave. The show runs through October 31. Call 773-549-2663 for more information.

The You Are Beautiful Project Show and Reception

The exhibition will showcase documentation of new installations of the project You Are Beautiful. The new series of installations will focus on the translation of this message into almost 30 other languages from around the world. Also on display will be a print series of the You Are I Am book spreads. The exhibit will be on display at the Ai Gallery, 676 N. LaSalle Drive, Suite 100, from October 2 through November 20, 2006. The reception will take place Friday, October 6, 2006 from 6-10 pm. Visit http://you-are-beautiful.com/ for more information.

Just Good Art @ Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center presents Just Good Art, its annual benefit auction. The featured art can be previewed online and at the center starting September 15. Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers, both of which include food from local restaurants. 7:30-11pm at 5020 S. Cornell. Call 773-324-5520 for information and reservations.

Silk Road Celebration @ AIC

Festivities around the Art Institute's launch of Silk Road Chicago will fill the museum and its steps starting at 10 AM, with live music, giveaways, dance performances, and more. Free with museum admission, and if you are one of the first 200 folks to show up, your admission will be free, too. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Silk Road Exhibits @ AIC

Several exhibits connected with Silk Road Chicago open today: Art of the Islamic World, The Art of Buddhism, Tang China and the Silk Road, and Icons of Divinity. Until 30 June. 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Free Museum Day

For today only, a couple of museums in Chicago will be participating in Museum Day, a one-day celebration in which museums around the country offer free admission. The participating Chicago museums: The Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture (6500 S. Pulaski) and Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art (756 N. Milwaukee). Please see the museums' corresponding Websites for hours and directions.

Opening: Newspeak @ Country Club Gallery

Mark McGinnis debuts his new show of iconography representing corporate and political "newspeak" at Country Club Gallery, 1100 N. Damen, tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Show runs through October 20. Call 773/368-4045 for more info.

Joyce Carol Oates @ Barbara's Bookstore, UIC

Renowned author Joyce Carol Oates will speak at 7:30pm at Barbara's Bookstore, 1218 South Halsted Street. Call 312.413.2665 for details.

Bruce Mau @ MCA

Innovative designer Bruce Mau and students from the Institute Without Boundaries discuss their experience curating the exhibit Massive Change: The Future of Global Design (through Dec 31). This free lecture takes place at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E Chicago Ave) this afternoon, at 3pm. For more information call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.

Opening: Massive Change @ MCA

Bruce Mau and the Institute without Boundaries have conceived this exhibit, which considers design's impact on our future. Through 31 December. 220 E Chicago. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: So the Story Goes @ AIC

This exhibit includes work by Nan Goldin, Tina Barney, and other photographers "who use daily experiences as inspiration." Includes work from Goldin's Ballad of Sexual Dependency, which should not be missed. Until 3 December, 111 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Take Me to the River @ Intuit

This new exhibit commemorates Intuit's 15th anniversary and celebrates the achievement of self-taught artists of the 1960s and 1970s. Through 5 January. Tonight, an opening reception begins at 5 PM. 756 N Milwaukee. Free. For more information, visit the website.

Pop-up Talk @ Columbia Center for Book and Paper Arts

Ever wonder how pop-up books get made? Two masters of this art, Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart, discuss what's involved in their creation this evening at 6:30 PM, in conjunction with the Moveable Feast exhibit. Free, 1104 S. Wabash, 2nd Floor. For more information, call 312-344-6630 or visit the website.

People Powered @ MCA

People Powered plans to refurbish old bikes, paint them blue, inscribe them with words by local poet Richard Fox, then park them by Blue Line stops, free for public use. This evening, at 6:30pm, you can view the prototypes for the projects with the artists (and ask them how long they think it will take before one of their bikes surfaces at a chop shop). Through October 1st, at the MCA (220 E Chicago Ave). Free with museum admission. For more information, call 312.280.2660 or visit the website.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

Every year Wicker Park holds their Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival and this fall is no exception. With hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, poets, filmmakers, dancers and every other kind of artist you can think of inhabiting neighborhood studios and galleries, you'd be hard-pressed not to find something to interest you (artists are listed on the website). Neighborhood theaters and bars will also host performance throughout the weekend. If the weather's favorable, this makes for an excellent walking experience and exploration in Wicker Park. Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm. Tickets range from $5-$15 with an all-weekend pass available for $40. Most tickets are available at the door, but be sure to check out the site or call 773-342-6777 so you can get what you want.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

Every year Wicker Park holds their Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival and this fall is no exception. With hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, poets, filmmakers, dancers and every other kind of artist you can think of inhabiting neighborhood studios and galleries, you'd be hard-pressed not to find something to interest you (artists are listed on the website). Neighborhood theaters and bars will also host performance throughout the weekend. If the weather's favorable, this makes for an excellent walking experience and exploration in Wicker Park. Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm. Tickets range from $5-$15 with an all-weekend pass available for $40. Most tickets are available at the door, but be sure to check out the site or call 773-342-6777 so you can get what you want.

Opening: The Word is Art

Johnsonese Gallery's latest show, "The Word is Art" opens tonight with a gallery reception from 7-9pm. The show features artwork that incorporates text with painter Brian Graves, painter and printmaker Doug Goessman and ceramic tile muralist Jason Messinger displaying their works. Running through September 30. Johnsonese Gallery is located at 2149 W. Armitage. Call 773-252-8750 for more information.

Opening: Bill Vaccaro "Out of Contxt"

Frequent Rearview contributor Bill Vaccaro exhibits photos from two of his ongoing projects, "Across The Borderline" and the St. Louis Arch studies, at Mode Realty, at 818 W. 18th St., through Sept. 27. There's an openning reception tonight from 6pm to 10pm as part of the Pilsen Second Fridays art walk.

Opening: Arte Para Todos

Aldo Castillo Gallery's latest show, "Arte Para Todos: The Art of Collecting," showcases all the values that have established the gallery in not just the Latin American art world, but the greater art world as well. Featuring working by Rosa Segura Sanz of Spain, Luis Lopez Cruz of Peru, Luis Fernando Uribe of Colombia, Magdalena Fernandez Merino of Spain, Lorna Marsh of South Africa and others. Tonight's opening is from 5:30-8:30pm and the show runs through October 28. 675 N. Franklin St. Call 312-337-2526 for more information.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

Every year Wicker Park holds their Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival and this fall is no exception. With hundreds of painters, photographers, sculptors, actors, poets, filmmakers, dancers and every other kind of artist you can think of inhabiting neighborhood studios and galleries, you'd be hard-pressed not to find something to interest you (artists are listed on the website). Neighborhood theaters and bars will also host performance throughout the weekend. If the weather's favorable, this makes for an excellent walking experience and exploration in Wicker Park. Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-6pm. Tickets range from $5-$15 with an all-weekend pass available for $40. Most tickets are available at the door, but be sure to check out the site or call 773-342-6777 so you can get what you want.

Jason Reblando Photography @ the Union League Club

Jason Reblando's photography will be on display for the month of September at the Union League Club of Chicago (65 W. Jackson). Recent work has featured youth boxing on the South Side and the people required to make public housing available. A reception occurs tonight from 5:30-7pm in the Third Floor Gallery. (Keep in mind they're strict about dress codes, though: business casual is the order of the day.)

Around the Coyote Opening Night Party

Come celebrate the opening of another year of all sorts of art in Wicker Park at Around the Coyote Gallery. Your $20 admission fee benefits Around the Coyote's art education program and includes food catered by Las Palmas, a video program by curator Kim Alpert, the debut of the site-specific installation by Artledge/iCabin and music by DJ Sid Delicious. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in a silent art auction. 8pm-midnight at 1935 1/2 W. North Ave. Tickets can be purchase at the door or in advance by calling 773-342-6777.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

If you've never been to Rogers Park, this weekend presents a good incentive to get up there. The fifth annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest features artists, open studios, merchants and live entertainment. You'll get to take in art, theater, music and eats all along Glenwood Ave. from Farwell to Lunt, near the Red Line Morse stop. Friday's hours are from 7-11pm, with their kick-off event at Duke's Bar, 6922 N. Glenwood. On Saturday and Sunday the fair will be open from 12pm-8pm. Free for all. Call 773-262-3790 for more information.

Artzilla Craftzuki

Featuring some vendors you've seen before and have grown to love and, hopefully, exposing you to new vendors whose wares you'll find intriguing, Artzilla Craftzuki holds its latest show today at Schuba's. With jewelry, t-shirts, handbags, stationary and much more available for purchase, you'll likely find something you can't leave without. 12-5pm at 3159 N. Southport. For more information contact organizer Danielle Colby at daniellecolby_designs[at]yahoo[dot]com or 773-267-8716.

Great Works of Mollie Edgar's Living Room

An art show in an apartment! All new artwork by Derek Erdman, Jason Polan, Allison Reimus, Hannah Woodroofe and Michael Worful, this evening from 6pm to 8pm at 1116 N. Damen, Apt. 1F. Free!

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

If you've never been to Rogers Park, this weekend presents a good incentive to get up there. The fifth annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest features artists, open studios, merchants and live entertainment. You'll get to take in art, theater, music and eats all along Glenwood Ave. from Farwell to Lunt, near the Red Line Morse stop. Friday's hours are from 7-11pm, with their kick-off event at Duke's Bar, 6922 N. Glenwood. On Saturday and Sunday the fair will be open from 12pm-8pm. Free for all. Call 773-262-3790 for more information.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

If you've never been to Rogers Park, this weekend presents a good incentive to get up there. The fifth annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest features artists, open studios, merchants and live entertainment. You'll get to take in art, theater, music and eats all along Glenwood Ave. from Farwell to Lunt, near the Red Line Morse stop. Friday's hours are from 7-11pm, with their kick-off event at Duke's Bar, 6922 N. Glenwood. On Saturday and Sunday the fair will be open from 12pm-8pm. Free for all. Call 773-262-3790 for more information.

Sacred Art Monthly Show

Sacred Art's monthly show runs from 7-9pm and, this month, focuses on "a study of female collage." The show features three methods of collage from three female artists: Debbie Egizio, Shana Hampton and Elke Claus. Complimentay drinks and clairvoyant readings will be available. The show runs through the weekend at 2040 W. Roscoe. Call 773-404-8790 for more information.

Objects d'Envy Trunk Show

Fixture at 2108 W. Roscoe is holding a trunk show with special prices on all their Objects d'Envy signature pieces. You'll also get to check out the rest of their jewelry and get a chance to win a pair of earring. 1-4pm. Call 773-244-3100 for more information.

Serenity Now @ Koi-8

Friend of GB, James Liu, holds his new clothing store's grand opening party in conjuction with an art show of recent works called "Serenity Now" by street artist Revise CMW. Music by the Quadrophonics. The opening reception is tonight from 7-10pm at Koi-8. 1927 W. Chicago Ave. Just a few doors east of Rotofugi.

Opening: Dzine: Somewhere over the Rainbow @ Cultural Center

Chicago Latino painter Dzine (nee Carlos Rolon) exhibits paintings that use "a non-objective vocabulary of vivid colors and abstract shapes," including a mural-sized work, in the Michigan Avenue Galleries until 29 October. Free, 77 E. Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Paul Kass: Recent Sculpture @ Cultural Center

Chicago artist Kass exhibits work that "[investigates] the boundaries between painting and sculpture." In the Michigan Avenue Galleries until 22 October. Free, 77 E. Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Out of House and Home

AllRise Gallery is holding an opening reception for its latest show, Out of House and Home. The show features five Chicago artists as well as work from artists in Costa Rica, the UK and Canada, all of which addresses private space and public exposure. Specifically, the theme is stated as, "how private space is compromised when the domestic is opened to the public and the personal is turned inside out." Local artists Don Guss, Joseph Mohan and Michael David Rose will show their photography and Duncan R. Anderson and Jared Sheldon will present their pieces in mixed media. Others will display paintings, films and more photography. Tonight's reception is from 7-10pm and includes a live performance from Rounded Binary. AllRise Gallery is located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call 773-292-9255 for more information. The show runs through September 16.

Opening: Jonas Dovydenas: Another Country Also Mine @ Cultural Center

Lithuanian-born, Massachusetts-based photographer Dovydenas exhibits photographs taken in his native country between 1996 and 2002. In the Michigan Avenue Galleries until 22 October. Free, 77 E. Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: So This Is It

In his first solo exhibition, artist Anthony Lewellen's So This Is It (pdf) opens tonight at 13th District Gallery. New work and a site specific installation will be available for veiwing, with music provided by DJ Tevo Howard. 7-11pm at 1706 W. Chicago Ave. The show runs through September 9. Email anthony[at]alewellen[dot]com for more information.

Opening: "Gorillas Ate My Eggs!" @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi features new works by local graffiti artist Peabe in a show called "Gorillas Ate My Eggs!" in the store's brand-new gallery space next door. DJ Genghiswon and special guests spin all night, and beer is provided by Goose Island beer. Free, from 7pm to 11pm at 1953-55 W. Chicago Ave.

First Friday @ MCA

The MCA (220 E Chicago Ave) presents a water-themed First Friday, featuring a bathing suit fashion show, "skinny dip" martinis, and music by DJ Daniel Mnookin. Inspired by WaterShed, an interactive sculpture designed by students at the Art Institute that flashes and emits ambient sounds when you ask it for some agua. This evening from 6-10pm. Tickets are $7-15. For more information call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.

Opening: Hin: The Quiet Beauty of Japanese Bamboo Art

Showcasing the work of contemporary Japanese bamboo artists, this traveling exhibit features baskets and other sculptural works. In the Yates Gallery until 29 October. Free, 77 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

MONO-POLY: Collaborative Monoprints from Girl Skateboards' The Art Dump

A collobarative print exhibition will be showing at 2418 W. Bloomingdale, Studio 207 on the 28th-30th with contributers from The Girl Skateboard Co. Art Dump. A portion of the project will then be exhibited from August-September, 2006 at Uprise Skateshop, 1820 N. Milwaukee, Chicago IL. Don't miss the big reception on Friday, with Chocolate Industries recording artists Ghislain Poirier, Diverse and Kovas.

Opening: Crossroads: Modernism in Ukraine @ Cultural Center

This is the first major US exhibition of Ukranian paintings from 1900 to 1930, and includes internationally known artists as well as less well known painters. If you like modernist art, don't miss this show. In the Exhibit Hall until 15 October. Free, 77 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Ruby Satellite @ HPAC

An interrogation room; a woman repeatedly bursting into flames; a re-staging of a famous public execution: through photography and video installations Ruby Satellite explores the magnetism of authority and its many guises. View the exhibit at Hyde Park Arts Center (5020 S Cornell Avenue) during a free opening reception, this evening from 3-5pm. For more information, call 773-324-5520 or visit the website.

Opening: Joe Conlon and Justin Henry Miller @ Aron Packer

Aron Packer presents 101 Talismans for a Happy Death, an exhibition of photography and video by Joe Conlon, with Justin Henry Miller Radioactive. Conlon, who was HIV positive for over 20 years, created the work in the last five years of his life before passing away in 2005. Miller's paintings function as a synthesis of his varied influences: science fiction, anatomical illustrations, cartoon animation, experimental science, and nature. View the work at the opening reception, tonight at 6pm. At Aron Packer Gallery (118 N Peoria). For more information visit the website.

Opening: 9Lives

Featuring the work of artists with backgrounds in grafitti, 9Lives opens today at PartsUnknown Gallery. Anthony Lewellen, Michael Genovese and Thor Alward are just a few of the nine artists who take part in the show. Tonights' opening reception is from 6-10pm at 645 W. 18th St. The show will run through August 11 and will hold a closing party on that date. Call 312-492-9058 for more information.

ArtLeague Kickball Tournament

Join ThreeWalls, StopSmiling Magazine and Bad at Sports today from noon till 5pm at the Wicker Park kickball field for the ArtLeague Kickball Tournament. Four teams (The Mullets, the West Town Banditos, Record Players and the West Loop Flyers) will compete for the championship trophy. Bookies and mascots are encouraged! Original celebrity player cards with photos and stats will be for sale. Bad at Sports Podcast hosts will present a play by play commentary. ArtLeague Kickball will be umpired by Stop Smiling Magazine. Players will don uniforms provided by American Apparel. The games will be followed by an after-party and awards ceremony at Smoke Daddy, 1804 W. Division, at 6:30ish.

Art show @ Sacred Art

Sacred Art, the Roscoe Village store that sells art from local artists, hosts its second art show tonight from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Free drinks, lively conversation, and lots of purchasable artwork. Sacred Art: 2040 W. Roscoe. (773) 404-8790.

How We Learn from Art Exhibits @ Newberry Library

A panel that includes Chicago artist Antonia Contro as well as Newberry staff who collaborated on the ongoing exhibit Closed and Open discuss art exhibits as learning experiences. Free, 6 PM. 60 W. Walton Street. For more information, call 312-255-3700 or visit the website.

Gary Borremans & Cameron Pfiffner Opening

Avram Eisen Gallery, 3243 W. Lawrence, third floor in Albany Park, opens its doors with an inaugural show of paintings by Chicago-based artists Gary Borremans and Cameron Pfiffner tonight from 5pm to 8pm. Come meet the artists and check out the gallery space. Free.

Missed Connections Reception

Sponsored by Columbia College, "Missed Connections" is an ongoing photography exhibit at Hokin Gallery. The name comes directly from Craigslist where people post fevernt pleas, reaching out those with whom they shared a brief connection, only to let the moment slip away. The exhibition builds on that by exploring "the balance of modern lifestyles with the cultivation of meaningful experience." Tonight's reception is from 5-7pm at 623 S. Wabash. The exhibition runs through August 4; call 312-344-7663 for more information.

DvA Gallery 2nd Anniversary Tiki Party

DvA Gallery is turning two, and they're celebrating with a tiki party today, starting at 4pm. There'll be surf music by the Cocktail Preachers, hula dancers, free cocktails and apps and more. The party doubles as the opening for a show of tiki art that'll run through July 9.

Exploration in the Visual Sound @ Cultural Center

In conjunction with the Nick Cave: Soundsuits exhibit, Instruments of Movement presents a full-length dance performance wearing some of Cave's soundsuits. In the Claudia Cassidy Theater, 7 PM. Free. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Art in Context @ Newberry Library

Art critic James Yood discusses the ongoing Antonia Contro exhibit Closed and Open in the context of the contemporary art scene. Free, 6 PM. 60 W. Walton Street. For more information, call 312-255-3700 or visit the website.

Soundsuits in Motion @ Cultural Center

In conjunction with the Nick Cave: Soundsuits exhibit, Instruments of Movement presents a short dance performance wearing some of Cave's soundsuits. The performance is followed by a discussion with Nick Cave and Jim Morrow (artistic director of Instruments of Movement). In the Sidney R. Yates Gallery, 6 PM. Free. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Green Furniture at DWR

Go to everyone's favorite furniture lust spot, Design Within Reach at 10 East Ohio, to check out the latest in green design. A dude from Herman Miller's Design for Environment Program will present and SAIC students will show their latest green design projects. Oh, yeah, and there's snacks and beverages! RSVP at tree[at]dwr.com by June 9. The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. on June 12.

Ford Free Evenings Kickoff Party @ AIC

The Art Institute's new pricing and schedule took effect Saturday, and the first Ford Free Friday Evening is tonight. The museum celebrates with live blues in the McClintock Court and throughout the galleries, as well as bluesy cocktails and food, and blue-themed tours of the Art Institute's collection. 111 South Michigan. 5 PM to 9 PM, free. For more information, visit the website.

Ford Free Evenings Kickoff Party @ AIC

The Art Institute's new pricing and schedule took effect Saturday, and the first Ford Free Evening is tonight. The museum celebrates tonight and tomorrow night with live blues in the McClintock Court and throughout the galleries, as well as bluesy cocktails and food, and blue-themed tours of the Art Institute's collection. 111 South Michigan. 5 PM to 9 PM, free. For more information, visit the website.

Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA

Tonight the Museum of Contemporary Art kicks off its free summer jazz series at 5:30 PM with Crosswind. Come early and check out the farmer's market out front, which also starts today (9 AM to 6 PM), wander through the exhibits (MCA admission is free Tuesdays), and conclude your evening lounging on the terrace, listening to jazz and enjoying one of the best views in Chicago. For more information, call MCA at 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Blue Balliett @ Art Institute

Blue Balliett's at it again with a new book, The Wright 3 following kid detectives Petra and Calder as they solve mysteries in Hyde Park. Last year they went after a priceless Vermeer; this year they're staking out Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House and cracking code to find hidden treasures. Illustrated by Brett Helquist, best known for his work with Lemony Snicket, the books are a delight for anyone who's spent a significant portion of time in the HP. Balliett reads in the Art Institute's Fullerton Hall from 11am-12pm. Call 312-857-7161 for more information.

Teddy Troops Invasion! @ Rotofugi

Forty Chicago-based artists take on the blank vinyl DIY Teddy Troops bear toy by German graffiti artist Flying Fortress in the new exhibit at Rotofugi, 1953 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Complementary beer, DJ Tobias spins. Free. More info here.

Artists Reception & Opening @ Aron Packer Gallery

Robin Assner photographs models that have been plastered with peanut butter, greasy mozzarella cheese, and gooey, glistening vanilla pudding. She presents the results in a new show Sticky at Aron Packer Gallery (118 N Peoria). Also presented is the work of Jerry Bleem, who creates stamp collage, glass-mounted insect wings, crocheted wall work using flags, drawings done on found papers, and more, and new paintings by Chicago-based artist Eleanor Speiss Ferris. Hob nob with the artists this evening, beginning at 6pm. For more information call 312-226-8984 or visit the website.

Opening: The Colors of Identity -- Polish Art @ Smart Museum

This exhibit includes sculpture, paintings, and drawings made in Poland as well as art created by Polish expatriates between 1890 and 1939 and covers a variety of art movements. Free. Through 17 September. 5550 S. Greenwood Avenue. For more information, call 773-702-0200 or visit the website.

Zines, Comics, and Other Hip Lit @ MCA

In conjunction with the Chris Ware exhibit, MCA and Quimbys host this celebration of the alternative press, which runs from 12 N to 4 PM. The afternoon features readings, signings, and serious book shopping. As you browse, look for emerging and established authors and artists. 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.

Message to Pretty @ Juniortown! Gallery

The Juniortown! Gallery presents Message to Pretty, an exhibition featuring the work of four artists addressing the question "What is pretty?" The artists involved are Erinn Kennedy (paintings), Elisabeth Doherty (amigurumi), Olivia Ortega (paintings), and Julie Smith (amigurumi). The show opens this evening with a reception from 6:00 to 9:00, and the show runs through June 10. Juniortown!: 1255 W. 18th Street. For more information contact Rodrigo Avila at (312) 666-3237.

@rtNight @ Cultural Center

Check out the Nick Cave: Soundsuits exhibit, watch a performance by Instruments of Movement to see the soundsuits in action, and then hang out at a reception with music, hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar. In the Sidney Yates Gallery, 6 PM. $10 admission includes one drink ticket. 78 E Washington Street. For tickets, call 312-742-8497. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Closed and Open: Antonia Contro@ Newberry Library

This is a site-specific exhibition, created in collaboration with Newberry staff. Contro, a Chicago artist, "create[s] visual systems that explain the world." Through 15 July. Free. 60 W. Walton Street. For more information, call 312-255-3700 or visit the website.

Free Family Day @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art is holding a family day where all families with children 12 and under can enjoy everything the museum has to offer without spending a dime. Partake in tours, theater workshops, art-making and even create your own family Hollywood star on the MCA plaza. 10:30am-4pm at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.

Manifest Urban Arts Festival

From 9 AM to 9 PM today, Columbia College celebrates the creative work of its graduating students in every department. The event features a street spectacle, an artwalk and sale, live music and performances, radio and web broadcasts, and readings throughout the South Loop. For details, visit the website.

Daniel Raeburn on Chris Ware @ MCA

The author of Chris Ware discusses the artist's life and work. Free, 6 PM. 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information and to reserve a seat, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.

Version >06 Closing

Come celebrate all that was the Version >06 Festival with a final, free look at the exhibitons at Kuntshalle. The Group Group Show, Urban Gardening and Exterior Decorating and a number of exhibitions are housed here at 3636 S. Iron St. Take part in Triumphant Competitive Potluck at 5pm - pay a small donation or bring a dish - and join in various performances at the 6-9pm closing event. ($7 gets you in here.) Finally, the last after-party goes down at Skylark at Cermak and Halsted. This "last dance party and hodown" is free so if you enjoyed all that was Version and want to make your tearful goodbye, this is your place to do it.

Chris Ware @ MCA

From May 6-August 27, Chicago alternative cartoonist Chris Ware has his first solo museum exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Original pieces from Jimmy Corrigan: Smartest Kid on Earth and also recent series Building Stories will be shown. Visit mcachicago.org for more information.

Outsider art opening reception @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents an exhibition of quilts made by Marie "Big Mama" Roseman, a woman who lived in Benton Harbor, Michigan and created many quilts with found objects: plastic flowers, lace, buttons, embroidered animals, figures and symbols. Tonight is the opening reception for the show, which runs at Intuit through September 2. Tonight's reception starts at 5:00. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Opening: In Search of Paradise: Great Gardens of the World @ Millennium Park

To generate ideas for residents of our "city in a garden," this exhibition of photomurals highlights new developments in garden design all over the world. In the outdoor Boeing Galleries through 22 October. Free. Michigan Ave., between Randolph and Monroe. For more information, call 312-742-6630 or visit the website.

Urban Design Group

Debuting original work this weekend, the Urban Design Group show features the work of local artists Susan Fong, Cindy Germata, Kristi Jones and Drema Widener. With jewelry, watercolor, quilting and paper art between them, a portion of the proceeds will go to the non-profit group Women Everywhere. The show will run through the weekend, starting with a 6-10pm wine and cheese reception on Friday; Saturday hours are 11am-5pm and Sunday hours are 12pm-3pm. Come to Studio 207 at 2418 W. Bloomingdale, 2nd floor.

Hyde Park Art Center 36-Hour Grand Opening

The new Hyde Park Art Center opens today with a 36-hour celebration featuring demonstrations from the Center's teachers, the opportunity to make your own art and the chance to learn more about what the Center has to offer. Attendees will also be the first to view Takeover, the premiere exhibition in the new space. Go here for a full schedule of events. And guess what? None of it costs even a dime. Starts Saturday, 9am, and runs through Sunday, 9pm, at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call Colleen Coyne at 773-324-5520 for more information.

Nova Art Fair

The Nova Art Fair focuses on new and emerging art in all media, including prints, installation, film, fashion design and much more. The goal of the fair is to provide an international showcase to established and emerging artists alike. The fair is organized by Bridge NFP, a non-profit organization that includes the publication of Bridge Magazine and provides cost-effective gallery space to new artists.

Today's your last chance to view the show, with hours from 12-6pm; tickets are $10 and can be bought online. 933 W. Belmont. Call 312-421-2227 for more information.

Urban Design Group

Debuting original work this weekend, the Urban Design Group show features the work of local artists Susan Fong, Cindy Germata, Kristi Jones and Drema Widener. With jewelry, watercolor, quilting and paper art between them, a portion of the proceeds will go to the non-profit group Women Everywhere. The show will run through the weekend, starting with a 6-10pm wine and cheese reception on Friday; Saturday hours are 11am-5pm and Sunday hours are 12pm-3pm. Come to Studio 207 at 2418 W. Bloomingdale, 2nd floor.

Hyde Park Art Center 36-Hour Grand Opening

The new Hyde Park Art Center opens today with a 36-hour celebration featuring demonstrations from the Center's teachers, the opportunity to make your own art and the chance to learn more about what the Center has to offer. Attendees will also be the first to view Takeover, the premiere exhibition in the new space. Go here for a full schedule of events. And guess what? None of it costs even a dime. Starts Saturday, 9am, and runs through Sunday, 9pm, at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call Colleen Coyne at 773-324-5520 for more information.

Nova Art Fair

The Nova Art Fair focuses on new and emerging art in all media, including prints, installation, film, fashion design and much more. The goal of the fair is to provide an international showcase to established and emerging artists alike. The fair is organized by Bridge NFP, a non-profit organization that includes the publication of Bridge Magazine and provides cost-effective gallery space to new artists.

Today's hours are 12-8pm; tickets are $10 and can be bought online. 933 W. Belmont. Call 312-421-2227 for more information. From 12-4pm, Landmark Century Cinemas at 2828 N. Clark will show film and video screenings, selections of which have yet to be decided. Later on $5 gets you into the 8pm-4am after party at Berlin Nightclub, 954 W. Belmont.

SAIC/826CHI Benefit @ Mercury Caf

The Heartbeat SWAP at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago will be holding a silent auction of artwork to benefit 826CHI tutoring center at The Mercury Caf, 1505 Chicago Avenue, tonight from 8pm until midnight. There will be food, drinks, music and performances, and all proceeds from the sale of art will go entirely to 826CHI.

Opening: Jeanne Dunning: Study after Untitled

This exhibit, organized by the University of California, Berkeley, Art Museum, showcases the photography, video, and sculpture of internationally prominent, Chicago-based artist Jeanne Dunning. In the Exhibit Hall, through 2 July. Free. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Urban Design Group

Debuting original work this weekend, the Urban Design Group show features the work of local artists Susan Fong, Cindy Germata, Kristi Jones and Drema Widener. With jewelry, watercolor, quilting and paper art between them, a portion of the proceeds will go to the non-profit group Women Everywhere. The show will run through the weekend, starting with a 6-10pm wine and cheese reception on Friday; Saturday hours are 11am-5pm and Sunday hours are 12pm-3pm. Come to Studio 207 at 2418 W. Bloomingdale, 2nd floor.

Nova Art Fair

The Nova Art Fair focuses on new and emerging art in all media, including prints, installation, film, fashion design and much more. The goal of the fair is to provide an international showcase to established and emerging artists alike. The fair is organized by Bridge NFP, a non-profit organization that includes the publication of Bridge Magazine and provides cost-effective gallery space to new artists.

Today's hours are 12-8pm; tickets are $10 and can be bought online. 933 W. Belmont. Call 312-421-2227 for more information. At approximately 8pm, 9pm and 10pm the Nova Train Fashion Show departs from the Belmont El Stop; tickets are $20 with another $5 getting you into the 8pm-4am after party at Berlin Nightclub, 954 W. Belmont.

Art Chicago in the Mart 2006

The Art Chicago art showcase starts today. The four-day art expo was to be in Butler Field in Grant Park, but has been moved to the 8th floor of the Merchandise Mart. In addition to displays or artwork from dozens of local galleries, there will be lectures and other special events happening throughout the festival. See the Art Chicago Website for full details. Art Chicago 2006 runs through Monday, May 1.

Nova Art Fair

The Nova Art Fair focuses on new and emerging art in all media, including prints, installation, film, fashion design and much more. The goal of the fair is to provide an international showcase to established and emerging artists alike. The fair is organized by Bridge NFP, a non-profit organization that includes the publication of Bridge Magazine and provides cost-effective gallery space to new artists.

Tonight's opening reception is from 5-10pm; tickets are $20 and can be bought online. 933 W. Belmont. Call 312-421-2227 for more information. Come to SmartBar, 3730 N. Clark, from 8pm-4am for the after party featuring DJ Spooky, John Phillips and Derek James. The $26 admission fee benefits the Chicago ART Foundation.

Version >06: International Noise Awards

Version is an annual festival focusing on emerging art, technology and social activism, running through May 7. Admission to events is accepted at the door, but you can also purchase a $25 event pass that covers entry fees to all screening and events or a $50 Version pass that allows you entrances to all events and programs, as well as food and various goodies. Call 773-837-0145 for more information.

The International Noise Awards Part One: Sweet 16 features sixteen of the city's "illest sonica hustlaz" in a noise competition where the audience decides who wins. The MC/Producer team of Brotman & Short host the show and award the grand prize of a contract with Terry Plumming Records. 8pm-11pm at South Union Arts, 1352 S. Union. $7.

Opening: Nick Cave: Soundsuits @ Cultural Center

This exhibit presents Chicago artist Nick Cave's sculptural soundsuits--elaborate full-body costumes made of metal, plastic, fiber, and found objects. The exhibit also includes a video of Cave using the suits in performance. Through 9 July, in the Sidney R. Yates Gallery. Free. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Version >06: Urban Gardening & Exterior Decorating

Version is an annual festival focusing on emerging art, technology and social activism, running through May 7. Admission to events is accepted at the door, but you can also purchase a $25 event pass that covers entry fees to all screening and events or a $50 Version pass that allows you entrances to all events and programs, as well as food and various goodies. Call 773-837-0145 for more information.

Tonight's Urban Gardening and Exterior Decorating show explores how artists can "create charged public space" and how urban environments can "become areas for personal and ideological transformations." There will also be workshops on DIY publishing, silk screening and live drawing/illustrating duels. The exhibition will continue every Saturday and Sunday through May 7. The opening tonight is from 5pm-2am at Iron Studios, 3636 S. Iron St. 4th floor. $10.

Disability Culture and the Arts @ Cultural Center

As part of Bodies of Work: The Chicago Festival of Disability Arts and Culture, which runs from 20 through 30 April, this forum centers on the findings of a three-year study on conditions faced by artists with disabilities. The event starts at 6 PM in the First Floor Garland Room. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Version >06: The Group Group Show

Version is an annual festival focusing on emerging art, technology and social activism, running through May 7. Admission to events is accepted at the door, but you can also purchase a $25 event pass that covers entry fees to all screening and events or a $50 Version pass that allows you entrances to all events and programs, as well as food and various goodies. Call 773-837-0145 for more information.

Tonight opens The Group Group Show: Experiments in Collaboration. The show features nearly two dozen artist teams who form "temporary collaborative initiatives" in Version kunsthalle at Iron Studios. 7am-2pm at 3636 S. Iron St. 1st floor; the show will be on exhibit every Saturday and Sunday through May 7. Tickets are $10.

Collecting Chicago @ Cultural Center

Local art collectors discuss their collections with Greg Cameron, a deputy director of MCA Chicago, at 6 PM in the First Floor Garland Room. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Creative Chicago: Artist Space and Housing Expo @ Cultural Center

Are you an artist looking for a home? Try the Creative Chicago Space + Housing Expo. From 10am to 3pm today, this free event supports "creatives" seeking housing, studio, and performance space with a range of seminars and more than 80 exhibitors throughout the building. At the Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

First Friday Day 2 @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The folks who live and work at the Flat Iron Arts Building open their studios on the Saturday afternoon following the first Friday of every month so you can wander through the maze of galleries and peruse the work of dozens of artists. Free, 12 N to 5 PM. 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more information, call 773-486-6055.

Opening: You Supply the Night, I'll Supply the Love

GARDENfresh presents a new show by Philadelphia artist Thom Lessner. In "You Supply the Night, I'll Supply the Love," Lessner attempts an autobiographical body of his work, combining his band and his artwork, which means not only will these be work based on his own band, but also of his influences, including Appolonia and the David Lee Roth Van Halen era. Tonight's opening is from 6-10pm at 840 W. Washington, 2nd floor. The show runs through May 13. Call 773-732-8968 for more information.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The folks who live and work at the Flat Iron Arts Building open their studios on the first Friday evening of every month so you can wander through the maze of galleries and peruse the work of dozens of artists. Free, 6 PM to 11 PM. 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more information, call 773-486-6055.

15th Annual International Poster Fair @ Cultural Center

This international vintage poster fair attracts a score or more of dealers offering a diverse selection of original posters. Find something to fill that empty space on the wall above the sofa or just browse and wax nostalgic about the good old days (whenever they were). $12, from 11 AM to 6 PM. 77 E Randolph Street. For more information, visit the website.

Edible Book Show & Tea

Columbia College Center for Book & Paper Arts holds its 7th annual Edible Book Show and Tea today from 1pm to 3pm on the third floor of the Columbia College Library, 624 S. Michigan Ave. Come check out books so good you could eat them up -- and then do so! Admission is $10, which goes toward the center's bindery equipment fund. RSVP to Michelle Ferguson at 312-344-7384 or mferguson@colum.edu if you plan to attend.

Bodies of Work: The Geography of Art and Disability @ Cultural Center

As part of Bodies of Work: The Chicago Festival of Disability Arts and Culture, which runs from 20 through 30 April, Katherine Sherwood, Professor of Art at UC Berkeley, discusses the history of art and disability. In the First Floor Garland Room at 2 PM. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Humans Being: Disability in Contemporary Art @ Cultural Center

As part of Bodies of Work: The Chicago Festival of Disability Arts and Culture, which runs from 20 through 30 April, this exhibit (which ends 4 June) highlights a wide range of strategies used to represent diverse disabilities and includes works by disabled and non-disabled artists. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

15th Annual International Poster Fair @ Cultural Center

This international vintage poster fair attracts a score or more of dealers offering a diverse selection of original posters. Find something to fill that empty space on the wall above the sofa or just browse and wax nostalgic about the good old days (whenever they were). $12, from 10 AM to 7 PM. 77 E Randolph Street. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Re:Pair and Imperfection @ Cultural Center

In a local manifestation of sustainable art, Chicago metal artist Kiff Slemmons has refashioned unusable remnants from the work of noted jewelers into new pieces. Tonights opening reception runs from 6 to 8 PM in the Michigan Avenue Galleries; the exhibit closes 28 May. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

International Poster Fair Benefit

The Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago host this benefit at the Chicago Cultural Center. $40 (or $30 if youre an Evening Associates member) gets you wine, hors doeuvres, a sneak preview of the 15th Annual Vintage Poster Fair, and a fair readmission pass for Saturday or Sunday. 5 PM to 9 PM, 77 E Randolph Street. For tickets, email eveningassociates [at] artic [dot] edu or call 312-443-3710. For more information about the Evening Associates, visit their website.

Winston Smith signs montage art @ Quimby's

Winston Smith, is a collage artist best known for his surrealistic and satirical montage book cover and album cover art since the late 1970s punk era (Dead Kennedys, DOA, etc.) up through the present with Green Day, George Carlin, Greg Palast, among others. He will be in the store to sign copies of his monographs and possibly some album covers if you bring them. The signing starts at 6:30pm at Quimby's at 1854 W. North Ave, call 773/342-0910.

Spectacle of Death Panel @ MCA

In conjunction with the exhibition of Andy Warhols Death and Disaster series, a panel of artists, academics, and journalists discusses how disasters shape culture. Free, 6 PM. 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information and to reserve a seat, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.

Andy Warhol Exhibit Opens @ MCA

Wowee Zowee, I'm so excited for this Andy Warhol exhibit to open at the MCA. Today thru June 18 you can check out: ANDY WARHOL/SUPERNOVA: Stars, Deaths, and Disasters, 1962-1964. From the museum: "The exhibit will bring together more than 25 examples of the artist's early silkscreen paintings, juxtaposing his iconic serial images of such figures as Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Elvis Presley with the artist's evocative and at times disturbing appropriations of newspaper images of car crashes, electric chairs, and other horrifying manifestations of disaster.... The exhibition is accompanied by Warhols "Screen Tests," source materials, films of Warhol's "superstars," the film "Elvis at Ferus," documenting his show at the Ferus Gallery, and a fully illustrated catalogue." If that can't get your butt in the door, nothing will. Check the website for times and admission prices.

Art Careers that Work @ Cultural Center

Artists share strategies for making a living this evening at 6 PM in the First Floor Garland Room. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Lillstreet Studios Open House

From 10am-6pm, Lillstreet Studios holds its monthly open house. Featuring the work of more than 30 artists, the open house allows customers to browse, shop and watch the artists as they work. 4401 N. Ravenswood. Call 773-769-4226 for more information.

Opening: Wounded in America @ Gallery 37

This exhibit showcases photographs by Bob Drea that are part of a project to document the effects of gun violence by collecting the oral histories and portraits of its survivors. In the CenterSpace at Gallery 37 until 5 May. 66 E Randolph St. For more information, visit the website.

Opening at The Chop Shop

Chop Shop gallery presents "All Parts Are Genuine," a group show of paintings by Natalie and Rachel Borchers, Kelly Brannon and Marianna Levant. Juan Chavez, aka DJ Wellington, spins. Free, 7-11pm. 901 Leavitt, 1st Foor (northeast corner of Iowa and Leavitt). For more info contact raybo79hotmailcom.

Forum: Cuba, Culture, and Change @ Cultural Center

A panel of Cuban artists discusses the post-Soviet upheaval and how it continues to have an impact on artists today. 6 PM, in the Sidney R. Yates Gallery. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Penelopeia: The Other Journey E-migration

The Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center hosts this exhibit conceived by the Penelopeia Project, which documents womens life journeys from antiquity to the present. Taking off from the idea that Odysseus wasnt the only hero of Homers epic, the Penelopeia Project contends that heroism takes a multitude of forms. 801 W Adams. Call the Hellenic Museum at 312-655-1234 for more information.

Youth and First Amendment Rights @ Columbia College

As part of the Louder than a Bomb teen poetry festival, the Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council and Young Chicago Authors sponsor this panel discussion about young artists and free speech. 4 PM, Hokin Hall, 623 S. Wabash. Free.

First Friday Day 2 @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The folks who live and work at the Flat Iron Arts Building open their studios on the Saturday afternoon following the first Friday of every month so you can wander through the maze of galleries and peruse the work of dozens of artists. Free, 12 N to 5 PM. 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more information, call 773-486-6055.

First Friday @ Flat Iron Arts Building

The folks who live and work at the Flat Iron Arts Building open their studios on the first Friday evening of every month so you can wander through the maze of galleries and peruse the work of dozens of artists. Free, 6 PM to 11 PM. 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more information, call 773-486-6055.

Art and Politics @ Cultural Center

A panel of three young artists discuss the political aspects of their work at this free event in the First Floor Garland Room. 6 PM. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Not Funny @ Cultural Center

Curators and artists represented in Situation Comedy: Humor in Recent Art discuss what is and is not funny in the ongoing exhibition. This free event takes place at 6 PM in the Exhibit Hall. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Opening: Optimism

What is optimism? Is it the glass half full? Is it the belief that everything works out for the best? Faith that good will ultimately triumph over evil? Aesthetic Eye examines all of this with a group show opening tonight with a gala reception. Featuring the works of artists such as Jan Hobson, Tara Thelen, Kevin O'Connell and Larry Zgoda with painting, photography, stained glass and fiber. 6pm at 1520 W. Chicago Ave. Call 312-243-1520 for more information.

Gallery Lowdown @ Cultural Center

Art dealers discuss how artists can successfully approach galleries at a free event this evening at 6 PM in the First Floor Garland Room. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Wicker Park's Around the Coyote Arts Festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, poets, filmmakers and more in a neighborhood-wide art exhibition. Walk from building to building as each hosts a different gallery and a different set of artists (click here for a list of artists). Check out the full schedule of events or get your $5 day pass and browse the galleries at your leisure. All-Access tickets can also be purchased for $40 by calling 773-342-6777.

Opening: Lovecore

Getting you ready for Valentine's Day, "Lovecore" is Fluxcore's multi-media art event exploring modern love stories through the work of the local artist community. Tonight's opening reception starts at 8pm at the Peter Jones Gallery, 1806 W. Cuyler. Suggested donation is $5 at the door. The show runs through March 10. Call 773-472-6725 for more information.

2nd Annual Art of Connection symposium @ Art Inst of Chicago

The Department of Art Therapy at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago proudly presents the 2nd Annual Art of Connection symposium, today from 9:30am to 5pm in Gallery 2 of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 847 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago.

This symposium is in conjunction with the 2nd Annual Art of Connection exhibit featuring artwork created by Master of Arts in Art Therapy students at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and clients from their internship sites. The exhibit is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 1-6pm; Sunday, February 12 and Saturday, February 18, 2006, 10am-4pm. The Art of Connection exhibition is free and open to the public.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Wicker Park's Around the Coyote Arts Festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, poets, filmmakers and more in a neighborhood-wide art exhibition. Walk from building to building as each hosts a different gallery and a different set of artists (click here for a list of artists). Check out the full schedule of events or get your $5 day pass and browse the galleries at your leisure. All-Access tickets can also be purchased for $40 by calling 773-342-6777.

Opening: 9th Annual Critical Mass Art Show @ Reversible Eye

This exhibition of art with bike-centric and anti-car themes kicks off with a party starting at 7 PM tonight. The exhibit runs through 24 February (when it closes with another party). 1103 N. California Ave. For more information, call 773-862-1232 or visit the website.

Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays

Every second Friday of the month, the Chicago Arts District holds monthly receptions at galleries and artists' studios around S. Halsted and 18th Streets. This month's 6-10pm recpetion is features "Drawings that Happen: Reactionary Drawing Class Exhibition" at the Chicago Art Department, 1837 S. Halsted. Also available for viewing are Moka Gallery, 4Art's Xclusive Group Show, "Imprints" at Vespine Gallery and more. Free and open to the public. Call 312-738-8000 x 112 for more information.

Opening: "The Innocent Eye?"

Nick Osborn, of Square America fame, opens a show of vernacular photography entitled "The Innocent Eye?" at Carl Hammer Gallery, 740 N. Wells St., tonight from 5:30pm to 8pm. The show runs through March 18.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

Wicker Park's Around the Coyote Arts Festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, poets, filmmakers and more in a neighborhood-wide art exhibition. Walk from building to building as each hosts a different gallery and a different set of artists (click here for a list of artists). Check out the full schedule of events or get your $5 day pass and browse the galleries at your leisure. All-Access tickets can also be purchased for $40 by calling 773-342-6777.

Opening: The Art of Teaching @ Gallery 37

This exhibit showcases the artwork of CPS elementary and high school art educators alongside that of their students. In the CenterSpace at Gallery 37 until 28 February. 66 E Randolph St. For more information, visit the website.

Art & Poetry at Leadway Bar & Gallery

Tonight at Leadway Bar & Gallery, 5233 N. Damen Ave., there's an opening celebration for a new show of paintings by Allison Rae Butkus, Sarah Jones and David Sisk, as well as poetry by Emilio Maldonado. Free, 6pm - 11pm.

Opening: Through the Skin

"Through the Skin" opens tonight at the International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. In the exhibit, Canadian artist Ruth Chambers "explores thresholds between the internal and the external [by] combining light and translucent porcelain in the form of human organs and apothecary jars." This is part of the museum's "Anatomy in the Gallery" series which figures medical-themed art. Tonight's free opening and reception is from 5-7pm. The show runs through April 21. Call 312-642-6502 for more information.

Anthony Elms Opening @ VONZWECK

Tonight from 6pm to 9pm, there's an opening reception for a show of new drawings by Anthony Elms at VANZWECK gallery, 1626 N. Humboldt Blvd. Free.

Chinese Paper Cuts @ Columbia

In celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Center for Asian Arts and Media at Columbia College Chicago, in conjunction with the Consulate General of the Peoples' Republic of China in Chicago, presents "Cutting Edge: The Beauty of Chinese Paper Cuts." This exhibit features approximately 200 works of festive scenes, animal figures, opera characters and ornamental designs from Shannxi Province, a western province of China with enormous cultural heritage, including one of the world's wonders--Terra Cotta Warriors. The Columbia College Library is located at 624 S. Michigan Ave., 3rd Floor and admission is free. Call (312) 344-8213 for more information, including hours of operation. This exhibit will be open until February 15.

Opening: Preston Jackson @ Cultural Center

This major exhibit by local artist Preston Jackson, called Fresh from Julieannes Garden, features more than 30 bronze castings. Through 26 March. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

The Plans for the Art Institute's new Design Department

Art Institute Director James Cuno and new architecture and design curator Joe Rosa will have a "conversation" in which they are bound to discuss the plans for the new design and architecture department at the Art Institute. 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall Auditorium, 111 S. Michigan Ave. Public pay $15; members pay $10; students pay $5. For tickets call 312-443-7300.

Opening: Jan Theun van Rees @ Cultural Center

Subjects of the photos here include the Chicago Cultural Center and other local sites as well as buildings in Peru and the Netherlands. The exhibit, called Photographs: Building Dreams in the Bookbinders Room, runs through 19 March. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Jon Langford: The Executioners Last Songs @ MCA

This performance by artist and activist Jon Langford incorporates songs, theater, and visual art. Tickets are $22 (MCA members $18). 7:30 PM, in the MCA Theater, 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, visit the website.

Opening: Los Carpinteros @ Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Centers Sidney R. Yates gallery hosts the first major museum survey of work by the acclaimed contemporary Cuban artist collective Los Carpinteros. The mixed media exhibit closes 2 April. 78 E. Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Jon Langford: The Executioners Last Songs @ MCA

This performance by artist and activist Jon Langford incorporates songs, theater, and visual art. Tickets are $22 (MCA members $18). 7:30 PM, in the MCA Theater, 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, visit the website.

Snow Turtle: Morning Time

Opening at Filter tonight, 1585 N. Milwaukee, "Snow Turtle: Morning Time" is a series of giant hanging comic panels that tell a story when read in order. Artist Dustin Kimmel heads the 6-10pm free opening. Call 773-227-4850 for more information.

Live Jazz, Demos @ Chicago Hot Glass

On a cold night, glass blowing starts to seem like a highly attractive hobby. On the third Thursday of the month (that is, tonight), Chicago Hot Glass hosts a social with live jazz and demonstrations from 8 PM till 11. 1250 N. Central Park Ave. For more information, call 773-394-3252 or visit the website.

Jon Langford and Katy Hogan: Art as Dissent @ MCA

Heartland Caf founder Katy Hogan interviews artist, activist, and musician John Langford about art as an expression of political dissent. This free event is sponsored by the Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council as well as MCA. Langford will also be featured at MCA this weekend, when he performs The Executioners Last Songs, a new composition that incorporates music, theater, and visual art. 6 PM, MCA Theater, 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, visit the website.

AIC Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr.

Bring your kids to celebrate and learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with storyteller Gwen Hillary at the Art Institute. Listen to stories, then create scratchboard pictures like the linoleum-cut prints in their current exhibition Legends and Legacy Award: Elizabeth Catlett. Free for kids of all ages; 11:30am-2:30pm in the Kraft Education Center. Call 312-857-7161 for more information.

Opening: The Airplane Project

Gardenfresh presents their first project of the year with Milwaukee artist Kathryn Martin. Working with obsession and conception, Marting uses "found cultural objects to engage the viewer in dialogue with-in and with-out the exhibition." Gardenfresh is located at 840 W. Washington, 2nd Floor; tonight's opening is from 6pm-10pm. The show runs through February 17. Call 773-732-8968 for more information.

Opening: Versus: Photography and Sculpture

Versus: Photography and Sculpture opens tonight in the WestTown Gallery District @ 40000. From 7-10pm, check out the 12 featured artists and their work in sculpture, photography, painting, video and drawing. Free and open to the public. The show runs through January 28 at 1001 N. Winchester Ave. Call 773-342-4930 for more information.

"Horror On Tour" @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi, 1953 W. Chicago Ave., opens "Horror On Tour," a show of new art by Christopher Lee and Tado, tonight from 7pm to 11pm. DJ Clayton Counts spins, free drinks, neat toys and art. And there's a raffle! More info here.

"Big Brother, Little Brother" Opening Reception

Anthony Lewellen and W. Kim, aka Antck and Revise CMW, open their joint show of their graffiti-inspired art at District 13 Gallery, 1706 W. Chicago, tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Free, of course, with an after party at Tre Via, 1575 N. Milwaukee. More details here.

Opening: Not I @ MCA

The Museum of Contemporary Art shows work from its artists book collection in commemoration of Samuel Becketts 100th birthday. Featured artists include Marcel Duchamp, Bruce Nauman, and John Cage; the centerpiece of the exhibition is a film of Becketts 15-minute play Not I. The exhibit closes 23 April. 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, call 312-280-2660 or visit the website.

Opening: Palimpsest @ Johnsonese

Tonight Johnsonese Gallery will hold an opening reception for "Palimpsest," their latest exhibition featuring the work of contemporary painters David Harouni and Joey Wozniak. The reception is from 6-9pm and is free and open to the public. Johnsonese Gallery is located at 2149 W. Armitage Ave. Call 773-252-8750 for more information.

Closing: Images of Uptown

Today is your last chance to see "Images of Uptown" a group show by North Side artists using painting, drawing, mosaics and photography to express the diversity in their communities. Held at the Jane Addams Hull House Center for Arts and Culture, 1136 W. Wilson Ave., the free show will close today at 6pm. Call 773-907-9403 for more information.

Joe Meno/Jay Ryan Book Release Party @ Hideout

Tonight at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, there is a book release party for Chicago writer Joe Meno's new short story collection, Bluebirds Used to Croon in the Choir and silkscreen star and Dianogah frontman Jay Ryan's collection of rock posters, 100 Posters, 134 Squirrels. Ryan's book is available via his The Bird Machine, where you can also buy his original artwork, or from Punk Planet Books. 9:30pm with a $5 cover; 21 and over. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Opening: A Bloody Portent of Possible Erotic Chaos

Dealing explicitly with paganism, "A Bloody Portent of Possible Erotic Chaos" hopes to use "deceptive morphing and non-rational skepticism to smear distinctions of familiar and distant phenomena, emanating a charged field of voraciously unhinged destructive and reproductive energy." Featured artists include Nate Godfrey, Taylor Hokanson and Matthew Steinke. Tonight's opening is from 6-9pm, but you can catch the show through December 29 at BSD Gallery, 1319 W. Lake St., third floor. Call 773-227-8308 for more information.

HotHouse Holiday Market

Come down to Hot House for their annual Holiday Market and Bizarre Baazar to pick up some cool handmade last-minute gifts. You know you haven't had your fill of craft fairs yet this year, and you've always meant to get down to Hot House one of these days. Hot House is located at 31 E. Balbo downtown. The fair lasts from 11am-6pm.

(Last Chance) from Art to Zine Exhibit

Today's your last shot at checking out the very cool from Art to Zine exhibit at the Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College. This exhibit features Chicago zines, the political work of Enrique Chagoya, and other indie art. The Center says: "From the meticulously crafted political art books of Enrique Chagoya to the do-it-yourself rubber stamp art that pervades the 'zine' culture, this exhibition broadens our expectations of how alt-journalism influences culture and the visual language of political art." The gallery is located at 1104 S. Wabash, 2nd. floor. Gallery hours are 10am-5pm, Monday through Friday and 10am-2pm on Saturdays during the semester.

HotHouse Holiday Market

Come down to HotHouse for their annual Holiday Market and Bizarre Baazar to pick up some cool handmade last-minute gifts. You know you haven't had your fill of craft fairs yet this year, and you've always meant to get down to HotHouse one of these days. Hot House is located at 31 E. Balbo downtown. The fair lasts from 11am-6pm Saturday and Sunday only.

Krista Peel's 2006 Calendar Show Opening

Tonight from 4pm to 9pm is the opening of the 2006 Calendar Show, an exhibit of 12 miniature sculptures inspiring 12 months of miniature rooms by Krista Peel. Contributing artists include: Amy Sacksteder, Zachary Starer, Callie Hollis, Karl Erickson, Marie Walz, Tim Summers, Sheila Sundquist Berkes, Robert Marshall, Matt Bergstrom, Christopher Dye, Tom Burtonwood, Holly Holmes and Erik Wenzel. At the Network of Visual Art Resource Lounge, 840 W. Washington. Free! More info here.

Live Jazz, Demos @ Chicago Hot Glass

On a cold night, glass blowing starts to seem like a highly attractive occupation. On the third Thursday of every month (today, for example), Chicago Hot Glass hosts a social with live jazz and demonstrations from 8 PM till 11. 1250 N. Central Park Ave. For more information, call 773-394-3252 or visit the website.

Opening: Between the Sheets

Tonight Columbia College is holding their opening reception for "Between the Sheets: Exploring Sex and Pornography through Artists' Books and Beyond." The show focuses on the line between art and pornography and when one becomes the other. The free reception is from 5-7pm at Columbia's Hokin Annex Gallery, 623 N. Wabash, 1st floor. Call 312-344-7663 for more information. Hosted by Windy City Media.

4Art Xclusive Group Show

Month four of 4Art's Xclusive Group Show brings us to a holiday special where the featured artists will show what kind of skills they have in the kitchen as well as in the studio. Guests will be treated with homemade eats and drinks during the 6-10pm reception. Featured artists include Kara James, Irina Dinkevich and Lawrence D. Colburn with special guest photographer Mariah Smith and a live artist performance from Magdalena Lis and Susan Clinard. 4Art is located at 1932 S. Halsted, #100. Call 3120-850-1816 for more information.

Open house @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art hosts an open house this evening from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Come meet the Intuit staff, browse the art currently on display, and enjoy some refreshments ("including OUT-cider!" -- Intuit). The open house, of course, is free and open to the public. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Cornelia Arts Holiday Show

Visit the Cornelia Arts Building today between 11 AM and 5 PM to browse among artwork and crafts by more than 40 Chicago-area artists. 1800 West Cornelia, at Ravenswood and Cornelia. For more information, call 773-935-8094 or email CorneliaArts [at] yahoo [dot] com.

Cornelia Arts Holiday Show

Visit the Cornelia Arts Building today between 11 AM and 5 PM to browse among artwork and crafts by more than 40 Chicago-area artists. 1800 West Cornelia, at Ravenswood and Cornelia. For more information, call 773-935-8094 or email CorneliaArts [at] yahoo [dot] com.

Opening: Lillstreet Art Center Annual Holiday Show

Today marks the start of the Lillstreet Art Centers annual Holiday Show, which presents work by more than 50 artists from throughout the United States through 31 December. Every weekend during the Holiday Show, Lillstreet offers free kids activities from 12 N to 3 PM so parents can shop independently. As part of Opening Weekend, Lillstreet offers extended hours (10 AM to 8PM today and 10 AM to 6 PM tomorrow) and opens its more than 40 artists studios to the public. 4401 N. Ravenswood. For more information, call 773-769-4226 or visit the website.

Saint Georges Court Holiday Art Walk

For one day, Sulzen Fine Art Sudio and Wittig Fine Art have teamed up for Saint Georges Court Holiday Art Walk. From 10am-6pm, there will be paintings, watercolors, drawings, photgraphs, notecards, antiques and new works on display in both studio locations. Sulzen is located at 2720 W. Saint Georges Court and Witting is locatd at 2735 W. Saint Georges Court. Call 312-409-4618 for more information.

Cornelia Arts Holiday Show

Visit the Cornelia Arts Building this evening from 6 PM to 9 PM to browse among artwork and crafts by more than 40 Chicago-area artists. 1800 West Cornelia, at Ravenswood and Cornelia. For more information, call 773-935-8094 or email CorneliaArts [at] yahoo [dot] com.

The WestTown Gallery Hop

On Saturday, November 19, the galleries of the WestTown Gallery Network open their doors for a day long gallery walk, or as they call it, a "hop." Man, artists sure are weird. Anyway, viewers who visit all six galleries will be eligible to participate in a raffle to win a drawing by Chicago artist Eric Lebofsky. Start with Fraction Workspace at 12pm for mimosas and treats, then visit Booster and Seven, Corbett vs. Dempsey, and 40000, and end up at Lisa Boyle Gallery and Western Exhibitions for the raffle at 5:30pm. More info is availible here.

Caf Society @ MCA

The Public Square of the Illinois Humanities Council is sponsoring an evening at the Museum of Contemporary Art, including a tour of the Tropicalia exhibit, a lecture on cultural hybridity, and a Caf Society discussion. This free event starts at 5:30 PM. 220 E. Chicago Ave. For more information, and to make a reservation, email events [at] thepublicsquare [dot] org or call 312-422-5580.

Lampo presents German experimental artist Stephan Mathieu

Lampo presents Berlin-based experiemntal artist Stephan Mathieu for his Chicago debut. His performance, "Radioland," is a suite of computer-processed live AM radio, accompanied by a fast, random video flicker of 256 colors.
The event is $12 and kicks off at 9pm on Saturday November 19th, at 6ODUM (2116 West Chicago Avenue). Read more about Mathieu at Lampo.org

Tony Fitzpatrick @ Book Cellar

Not only will local artist Tony Fitzpatrick sign his book tonight, one his original etchings will also be auctioned off to benefit the Red Cross. In The Wonder: Portraits of a Remembered City Volume 1, Fitzpatrick uses drawing-collages to detail parts of his personal history as well as that of Chicago. The Book Cellar is hosting the signing and auction at 7pm, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.

Site Unseen @ Cultural Center

Tonight only! A site-specific art installation and performance evening at the Chicago Cultural Center. Local artists will use materials, sound, media installation and live performance for just one night of works that "contract, contort, amplify and shift the viewers' experience of the Chicago Cultural Center's existing architectural space." Artists include Dolores Wilber, Chremos/Rosenthal Dance Theater, Aimee Lee, Joan Dickinson, M.W. Burns, and many others (see the website for a full list). Site Unseen takes place tonight (only!) from 6-9pm at 78 E. Washington Street, Chicago and is free.

Phalanx Network Intro Party

The Phalanx Artist Network, a new organization hoping to energize Chicago's arts and entertainment scene, is throwing an introductory party at Smartbar, 3730 N. Clark St., tonight from 8pm to 10pm. Drink specials at the bar, free apps around the place, assumably music -- tickets are $12 in advance. 21 and over.

Just Good Art

The Hyde Park Art Center is holding their annual benefit auction, entitled "Just Good Art." Combined with a live auction, the benefit includes work by over 100 artists and the proceeds go toward the Center's exhibition and education programs. Everything starts at 7:30pm with tickets set at $25 for members and $30 for non-members. The Hyde Park art Center is located at 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. Call 773-324-5520 for tickets and information.

Opening: Phoenix @ Johnsonese Gallery

The Johnsonese Gallery is holding an opening reception for "Phoenix," a show the celebrates the gallery's transition to a bigger and better place. Featured local artists include Joey Wozniak, Elizabeth Tyson, Joseph Innocenti, Doug Goessman, John Gibbs and Wade Chandler. Join them from 6-9pm tonight as they rejoice in their new location. 2149 W. Armitage Ave., 773-252-8750. "Phoenix" runs through December 24.

4Art Xclusive Group Show

It's month three of 4Art's six-month "Xclusive Group Show" and the gallery is holding their opening reception tonight from 6-10pm. The show gives a "first hand look into the creation and evolution of artwork, rotated each month, by over a dozen Chicago Artists." It's kind of like art in action. Or in evolution, as the case may be. Special guests include artist Josh Moulton, musician Phil Circle on the guitar and Agnieszka Kulon with a live artist performance. 4Art is located at 1932 S. Halsted #100. Call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Opening: Marwen Alumni Group Show

Marwen, an art gallery dedicated to providing creative opportunities to "Chicago's under-served youth," is holding their opening night reception for The Alumni Show. Participating artists include Nicole Briggs, Wendy Melgar, Matthew Reedy, and many more. The free reception is from 5-8pm and the show will run through December 7. Marwen is located at 833 N. Orleans St. Call 312-944-2418 for more information and be sure to check out the website to learn more about their cause.

Panel Discussion on Women in Architecture @ the Chicago Architecture Foundation

At 6 PM this evening, three of the architects featured in the current CAF exhibit 5 Architects discuss womens evolving role in the profession. John Buck Company Lecture Hall Gallery at the ArchiCenter, 224 South Michigan. This event is $15, or $5 for members of the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Call 312-922-3432, x266 for reservations or click here.

Poetry Reading and Artist-Poet Dialogue @ ARC Gallery

A reading of poems about art on exhibit at the ARC Gallery will be followed by a conversation between the poets and the artists as part of Poetic Dialogue Project 2005. The reading starts at 4 PM. 734 N. Milwaukee. Call 312-733-2787 for more information or visit the website.

Opening: Poetic Dialogue @ ARC Gallery

What do you call it when poets and visual artists collaborate? Cool! Ten women poets and artists from ARC Gallery together created Poetic Dialogue Project 2005. See the art at ARC Gallery through 26 November; check out the opening tonight at 6 PM. 734 N. Milwaukee. Call 312-733-2787 for more information or visit the website.

Opening: Grace Cole @ Fine Arts Building Gallery

Heres a terrific excuse to wander around Chicagos inspiring Fine Arts Building. The Fine Arts Building Gallery is hosting an opening reception for a new exhibit of carbon pencil drawings by member artist Grace Cole from 5 PM to 8 PM tonight. Take what might be the last manned elevator in the city to the 4th floor, orbetter yettake it up higher and soak up the artistic, musical, and choreographic vibes as you explore your way back down. 410 S. Michigan, Suite 433. For more information, call 312-913-0537, or visit the website.

Art Opening @ International Museum of Surgical Science

Yes, you read that correctly. Alice Leora Briggs and Leigh Anne Lester display their interpretations of medical history with their respective shows "Graft" and "Family Portraits." Depicting historical medical procedures and genetic inheritances, the shows are the latest additions to the International Museum of Surgical Science's "Anatomy in the Gallery" series, showcasing "contemporary art with medical themes." The opening reception is from 5-7pm, $6 for regular museum admission and $3 for students and seniors. Admission to the reception is at no additional charge. 1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. Call 312-642-6502 for more information.

German Architects on Sustainable Design

At 6 PM this evening, the Chicago Architecture Foundation is hosting a panel discussion on Green Architecture in Germany. Panelists include three German architects, the General Secretary of the Federal Chamber of German Architects, and a member of the Chicago Chapter of the US Green Building Council. John Buck Company Lecture Hall Gallery at the ArchiCenter, 224 South Michigan. This event is $15, or $5 for students and members of the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Call 312-922-3432, x266 for reservations or click here.

SOFA Chicago

SOFA Chicago returns to Navy Pier this weekend, filling Festival Hall with sculpture, objects and functional art from around the world. The show is open Friday, Oct.28, 11am-8pm; Saturday, Oct. 29, 11am-8pm; and Sunday, Oct. 30, noon-6pm. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass (students and seniors pay $10).

SOFA Chicago

SOFA Chicago returns to Navy Pier this weekend, filling Festival Hall with sculpture, objects and functional art from around the world. The show is open Friday, Oct.28, 11am-8pm; Saturday, Oct. 29, 11am-8pm; and Sunday, Oct. 30, noon-6pm. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass (students and seniors pay $10).

SOFA Chicago

SOFA Chicago returns to Navy Pier this weekend, filling Festival Hall with sculpture, objects and functional art from around the world. The show is open Friday, Oct.28, 11am-8pm; Saturday, Oct. 29, 11am-8pm; and Sunday, Oct. 30, noon-6pm. Tickets are $15 per day or $25 for a three-day pass (students and seniors pay $10).

Opening: Water Tanks @ the Chicago Cultural Center

If youve been wondering what possible use there is for those obsolete water tanks on Chicago rooftops, your curiosity can now be satisfied. Through 29 January 2006, entries in the Chicago Architectural Clubs Water Tank Design Competition are on display at the Chicago Cultural Center. 78 E. Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Paschke & Toulouse-Lautrec @ the Block

Tonight at 6pm, Lisa Wainwright, dean of graduate studies at the School of the Art Insitute of Chicago, explores the demimonde of 1890s Paris and 1970s Chicago as seen through the work of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Ed Paschke. Wainwright is introduced by Northwestern professor William Conger. The event takes place at the Block Museum, which is located on Northwestern's campus at 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston.

Chicago Architectural Club Chicago Prize Announcement

Those fat, cylindrical structures on many Chicago rooftops are water tanks, and theyre obsolete. But maybe not for long. The winner of the Water Tank Design Competition is being announced at the Art Institute of Chicagos Rubloff Auditorium this evening at 5:30 PM. This free event also features a keynote address by jury chair and 2005 Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Thom Mayne. For more information, visit the website.

Anthony Lewellen Open Studio

I've mentioned before that I'm a fan of Anthony Lewellen's work, so I find it nice that the Chicago Artists' Month schedule of events includes a look at this artist's studio. From 12-5pm, you can view his recent work in wood, steel and found objects. 5006 N. Keeler Ave. Call 773-205-8110 for more information.

Bridgeport Art Walk

The second annual Bridgeport Art Walk runs from noon to 5pm today, in conjunction with the Select Media Festival. Download a PDF map and check out what's going on in this emerging arts community. Free.

Opening: Tropicalia @ the Museum of Contemporary Art

This exhibit traces the impact of the Tropicalia movement on Brazilian popular culture, including music, visual arts, theater, and film. 220 E Chicago Ave. For more information, call 312-280-2660, or visit the website.

Anthony Lewellen Open Studio

I've mentioned before that I'm a fan of Anthony Lewellen's work, so I find it nice that the Chicago Artists' Month schedule of events includes a look at this artist's studio. From 12-5pm, you can view his recent work in wood, steel and found objects. 5006 N. Keeler Ave. Call 773-205-8110 for more information.

The New Chicagoans Opening Reception

Tonight from 6pm to 1am is the opening reception for The New Chicagoans show at Iron Studios, 3636 Iron St. 2nd floor. The group exhibition demonstrates the wide range of work being done by both emerging and established Chicago artists.


Featuring: Michael Merck, Cody Hudson, Rob Doran, Joe Compean, Christine Tarkowski, Melina Ausikaitis, Duk Ju Kim, Jonn Salhus, Victor, Barbara Kasten, Nat Ward, Sighn, Chris Uphues, Ryan Davies, Juan Chavez, Brian Ulrich, Greg Stimac, You Are Beautiful, Elisa Harkins, Nick Black, Carl Virgo, Al Burian, Al Pocius, Andrew Wilson, Steven Eichorn, Melinda Fries, Michael Genovese, Paul Nudd, Erin Foley and Dolan Geiman. The show runs until November 13.


Free, all ages. It's part of this year's Select Media Festival.

Exquisite Corpse show opening party @ Rotofugi

Rotofugi, that cool toy store that has all thse stuff you need to buy, has a mini-gallery space as part of its store, and tonight they're celebrating the start of a new art show, "Fun with Dead Bodies". The show will feature Exquisite Corpses drawn by various artists. (As far as we know, none of the artists have participated at An Exquisite Corpse, the EC site run by GB alumnus Phineas X. Jones.) The show's opening party is tonight from 7:00 PM to 11:00, and is free. The exhibit runs through November 13. See the Rotofugi Website for more details. Rotofugi: 1953 W. Chicago. (312) 491-9501.

Barry McGee speaks at the Art Institute of Chicago

Drawing energy and inspiration from street life, graffiti, punk and hard-core music, and the folk culture of tramps, hobos, and transients, San Francisco-born Barry McGee makes art that evokes traces of human presence. Lecture starts at 6:00 p.m. at the SAIC Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive.

East Garfield Park Artists' Open Studio Tour

Today the artists of East Garfield Park open their studios to the public. Walk to each locale at your own pace or take a bus tour starting at the Conservatory at noon. Art, markets, exhibits and performances galore. And if you like to find art in pain, you can tour my half-gutted home. Go here for details. All events are free.

4Art Xclusive Group Show

It's month two of 4Art's six-month "Xclusive Group Show" and the gallery is holding their second opening reception tonight from 6-10pm. The show gives a "first hand look into the creation and evolution of artwork, rotated each month, by over a dozen Chicago Artists." It's kind of like art in action. Or evolution, as the case may be. Special guest artists include Nathan Peck with a video installation and Steven St. Clair with painting. Additionally, Mick Stone will be on his guitar and Karena Karras will give a live artist performance with miniature oils. 4Art is located at 1932 S. Halsted #100. Call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Lillstreet Studio Artists' Sale

More than 30 artists are selling their work at today's Studio Artists open house at Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave. It's a great opportunity to do some early holiday shopping or peek at some artists' studio spaces. Free, 10am to 6pm on the second and third floors.

Opening: Kathleen King @ the Fine Arts Building Gallery

Another first Friday, another opening at the Fine Arts Building Gallery. Its a great way to combine a tour of a landmark Chicago building with a fresh art encounter. From October 5 to 29, Kathleen King is showing her mixed media work, which uses paint, digital applications, and Xerox transfers. The opening runs this evening from 5 PM till 8 PM, on the fourth floor of the Fine Arts Building, 410 South Michigan Avenue, Suite 433. For more information call 312-913-0537 or visit the website.

Origami Artist Lecture @ Fermilab

It always surprises me (pleasantly) when I see some of the great art exhibits they have out at the Fermilab in Batavia. Tonight features an artist lecture by Chris Palmer and Lane Allen whose Origami art exhibits (along with that of Robert Lang) are being displayed until November 4th. Lectures and receptions by Palmer and Lane begin at 4pm today, and run until 8pm (Lang's reception is on Oct. 7th). Hours and directions to Fermilab are online.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

From 11am-5pm, the streets of Rogers Park will be filled with art, theater, music, food and drink as the neighborhood celebrates the fourth annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest. Admission to the street festival is free and grants the opportunity to see many local artists and merchants while catching some live entertainment. In conjunction with the Fest, the Rogers Park Open Studio Walk show the neighborhood's many art studios on guided walking tours. Kids can also enjoy KidFest, featuring hands-on art activities and an outdoor stage with dancers and folksingers. Free and open to the public. Call 773-262-3790 for more information.

Intuit Open House

INTUIT: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, normally closed Sunday, opens its space today from 2 to 4 PM. The nonprofit gallery maintains a permanent collection of outsider and folk art, and is currently featuring Singular Visions: Images of Art Brut from the Anthony J. Petullo Collection. 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue. For more information, call 312-243-9088, or visit the website.

Intuit Folk and Outsider Art Show

INTUIT: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art marks the beginning of Chicago Artists Month this weekend with the third annual Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art. The show, which is a key fundraiser for nonprofit Intuit, costs $10 and is located on the second floor of 847 W. Jackson. Hours are 11 AM to 6 PM. For more information, call 312-243-9088, or visit the website.

Pilsen Open Studios

Chicagos 10th Artists Month begins this weekend with an open studios event in Pilsen, which runs from noon till 7 today. During the 35th Annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House, more than a hundred artists open their doors to the curious public. Its a great opportunity to explore a vibrant neighborhood, see some edgy art, and eat some delicious and authentic Mexican food. For more information, call the Chicago Arts District at 312-377-4444 or check the website.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

From 11am-5pm, the streets of Rogers Park will be filled with art, theater, music, food and drink as the neighborhood celebrates the fourth annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest. Admission to the street festival is free and grants the opportunity to see many local artists and merchants while catching some live entertainment. In conjunction with the Fest, the Rogers Park Open Studio Walk show the neighborhood's many art studios on guided walking tours. Kids can also enjoy KidFest, featuring hands-on art activities and an outdoor stage with dancers and folksingers. Free and open to the public. Call 773-262-3790 for more information.

Lillstreet Art Center Open House

Celebrating its 30th anniversary and helping to kick off Chicago Artists Month, the Lillstreet Art Center hosts an open house today from 12 N till 6 PM. You can watch artists working in 40 studio spaces, take a free workshop, and peruse current exhibits. 4401 N. Ravenswood. For more information, call 773-769-4226, or visit the website.

Know Your Local Artists

As part of Chicago Artists Month, members of the Chicago Art Critics Association will give six slide talks about Chicago artists (including Ed Paschke, Heff Carter, and Indira Johnson, among others) at the Chicago Cultural Centers Claudia Cassidy Theater starting at 3 PM today. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.

Intuit Folk and Outsider Art Show

INTUIT: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art marks the beginning of Chicago Artists Month this weekend with the third annual Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art. The show, which is a key fundraiser for nonprofit Intuit, costs $10 and is located on the second floor of 847 W. Jackson. Hours are 11 AM to 6 PM. For more information, call 312-243-9088, or visit the website.

Pilsen Open Studios

Chicagos 10th Artists Month begins this weekend with an open studios event in Pilsen, which runs from noon till 7 today and tomorrow. During the 35th Annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House, more than a hundred artists open their doors to the curious public. Its a great opportunity to explore a vibrant neighborhood, see some edgy art, and eat some delicious and authentic Mexican food. For more information, call the Chicago Arts District at 312-377-4444 or check the website.

Pilsen Open Studios

Chicagos 10th Artists Month begins this weekend with an open studios event in Pilsen, which starts at 6 PM tonight. During the 35th Annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House, more than a hundred artists open their doors to the curious public. Its a great opportunity to explore a vibrant neighborhood, see some edgy art, and eat some delicious and authentic Mexican food. For more information, call the Chicago Arts District at 312-377-4444 or check the website.

ThickDesign05 Lecture: Jurgen Bey

Part of the ThickDesign05 product design exhibit at at the Betty Rymer Gallery that runs through September 28th, the Art Institute hosts a special lecture by Jurgen Bey. Bey is a Dutch product designer, who is best known for his provocative work with the conceptual design collective Droog Design. The lecture is at 6:00 pm at the SAIC Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive. Admission is free.

"Behind Blythe" Opening at Rotofugi

Tonight is the opening reception for the show "Behind Blythe," detailing the revival of the iconic Blythe doll, from 6pm to 10pm at Rotofugi, 1953 W. Chicago Ave. The reception will feature photographer Gina Garan signing her Blythe photo book from 7pm to 9pm; Junko Wong of Cross World Connections (the doll's makers) will be attending as well. The newly-released, hard-to-get Roxy Baby Blythe and a variety of other Blythe Neos and Petites will be available for purchase. More info here.

An Evening of Fashion and Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art and Marshall Field's team up to present their annual show, An Evening of Fashion and Art. This year's show features such fashion giants as Oscar de la Renta, Stella McCartney, Yves Saint Laurent and Issey Miyake. You can see all the glamour at the Marshall Field's State Street store. Cal 312-397-3857 for more information.

Opening: On the Mark: Chicago Printmakers Collaborative 1989-2004

The Chicago Cultural Center celebrates 15 years of the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative with a two-month retrospective. The opening reception starts at 6 PM tonight in the Cultural Centers Michigan Avenue Galleries, and the exhibit runs until November 6. For more information, check the website or call 312-744-6630.

Aerial Photo Lecture and Signing

If you've visited Millenium Park this summer, it's likely you've seen the outdoor photo exhibit of aerial photos of the Chicago area by Terry Evans. Come out and meet the artist and get a signed copy of the collection of these photos at a Chicago Architecture Foundation event. The CAF says: "Viewing places from above draws attention to important issues on the ground, and renown landscape photographer Terry Evans's beautifully composed aerial photographs of Chicago and the surrounding region are provocative embodiments of this fact. These not to be missed photos, on view at Millennium Park through October 10, are a thought-provoking portrait that captures the unique qualities of our metropolitan area. Terry Evans' work has been widely exhibited by several major museums, and is a recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship." Tickets are $20 ($10 for CAF members) $10 of the admission fee will be credited towards a purchase of "Revealing Chicago: An Aerial Portrait". Register online or call (312) 922-3432 x225. The program starts tonight at 6pm at The John Buck Company Lecture Hall Gallery at the ArchiCenter, 224 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago.

French Masters Dinner with Gauguin

Mon Ami Gabi and the Art Institute have been offering a series of "French Masters" dinners. Tonight's dinner features the work of Paul Gauguin. A wine reception starts everything off at 6pm, followed by a mutli-course meal prepared by chef Erik Palmer and a 7pm lecture, complete with slide presentation, of the Art Institute's Gauguin collection. Dessert will round off the night. Reservations are $65 per person and are required. Call 773-348-8886 to save a spot.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

This Wicker Park/Bucktown arts festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, performers and more in an opportunity to exhibit and sell their work to visitors from all over the country. Coordinated by Around the Coyote, the Fall Arts Festival transforms local studios and businesses into galleries and the long weekend will be filled with scheduled and spontaneous performances. Tickets are available at the door, but passes for groups of 15 or more can be purchased by calling 773-324-6777. Visit the website for schedules and more information on the festival. Friday 6pm-11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday 10am-6pm.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

This Wicker Park/Bucktown arts festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, performers and more in an opportunity to exhibit and sell their work to visitors from all over the country. Coordinated by Around the Coyote, the Fall Arts Festival transforms local studios and businesses into galleries and the long weekend will be filled with scheduled and spontaneous performances. Tickets are available at the door, but passes for groups of 15 or more can be purchased by calling 773-324-6777. Visit the website for schedules and more information on the festival. Friday 6pm-11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday 10am-6pm.

Come on out tonight to hear GB staffer Anne Holub read poetry at Subterranean as a part of the Poetry Center of Chicago's poetry program for Around the Coyote.

2nd Annual Rockwell Crossing Artwalk

Are you frustrated with pricey, commercial art events? Interested in more of that independent, DIY culture that is so pervasive in this fine city of ours? The Rockwell Crossing Artwalk might be just for you, as creator Victoria Ikpoh started the show to bring the community and artists together in a relaxed environment. The show features paintings, photography, jewelry, handmade body products and more. From 10am-5pm, check it all out on the corner of Rockwell and Leland (the Brown Line Rockwell stop). Email rcartwalk[at]yahoo[dot]com for more information.

Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival

This Wicker Park/Bucktown arts festival features hundreds of painters, photographers, actors, performers and more in an opportunity to exhibit and sell their work to visitors from all over the country. Coordinated by Around the Coyote, the Fall Arts Festival transforms local studios and businesses into galleries and the long weekend will be filled with scheduled and spontaneous performances. Tickets are available at the door, but passes for groups of 15 or more can be purchased by calling 773-324-6777. Visit the website for schedules and more information on the festival. Friday 6pm-11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday 10am-6pm.

Opening: 4Art Exclusive Group Show

For the first time 4Art Gallery is hosting an exclusive six month group show that will showcase the artwork of more than a dozen local artists. New work will be presented each month as the show's goal is to display the creation and evolution of these artists' work. At tonight's opening reception the artists will demonstrate their skills with live performances. From 6-10pm, you'll get to see those performances, listen to music by violinist Jason Loveall and get the first look at this continuing show of printmaking, scultpure, abstract art, digital photography and much more. 4Art Gallery is located at 1932 S. Halsted, #100. Call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Frank Vodvarka at the Fine Arts Building Gallery

Heres a terrific excuse to wander around Chicagos terrific Fine Arts Building. The Fine Arts Building Gallery is hosting an opening reception for a new exhibit of work by member artist Frank Vodvarka from 5 PM to 8 PM tonight. Take what might be the last manned elevator in the city to the 4th floor, orbetter yettake it up higher and soak up the artistic, musical, and choreographic vibes as you explore your way back down. 410 S. Michigan, Suite 433. For more information, call 312-913-0537, or visit the website.

Opening: The Cartoonist's Eye

Curated by local comic artist Ivan Brunetti, Columbia College is hosting "The Cartoonist's Eye," a show that promises to be "the most comprehensive retrospective of 20th Century comic art ever assembled." Featured artists include everyone from Chris Ware to Robert Crumb to George Herriman and Charles Schulz. Tonight's opening reception runs from 5-8pm, with Seth presenting a slideshow at 6:30pm. The reception, and the show, are free and open to the public. Columbia's A+D Gallery is located at 619 S. Wabash.

ThickDesign05 @ Art Institute

Who likes cutting edge product design? Well, I do. Go check out ThickDesign05 at the Betty Rymer Gallery, 280 South Columbus Drive (part of the Art Institute). The show runs from August 16 - September 28, 2005, with an opening reception Thursday, September 8, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Designers and artists include Acconci Studio, Yves Behar+fuseproject, Inside Outside / Petra Blaisse, Martin Boyce, collective_difference_studio, FREITAG lab. ag, Herbst Lazar Bell (HLB), IDEO, Karim Rashid Inc., Enzo Mari, C.E.B. Reas, Simon Starling, Adam Whiton and Yolita Nugent.

More info and the exhibit manifesto are availible here.

Art Show Opening & Katrina Benefit @ Pause

Artist Kevin Swallow's show of Chicago cityscapes opens with a reception tonight at Pause Cafe, 1107 W. Berwyn, 6-9pm. To help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, 25 percent of the proceeds from any prints sold will be donated to the relief effort. More info here (PDF).

Daily Meaning @ the Peace Museum

Today, the Peace Museum opens its latest exhibition, Daily Meaning: Life Inside America's Service Industries. The show features the work of five photographers and five audio producers who have collaborated to document the worklives of service professionals in the Chicago area (see and listen to examples here). The museum is located at 100 N. Central Park Ave.; for further details, including hours, check the website or call 773/638-6450.

Bucktown Arts Fest

What started as a small gathering of local artists, the annual Bucktown Arts Fest now presents a large variety of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, music and more. It's a great way to check out what's happening in the Chicago art world without being badgered by that pesky "large-scale commercialism." The fest is located at Senior Citizen's Park, at Oakley and Lyndale, near the Western Blue Line stop. Hours are from 11am-7pm. (At the time of posting the official website wasn't working. Here's hoping it is now.)

Cartography Opening @ Johnsonese Gallery

Johnsonese Gallery's new exhibition, "Cartography 101," opens tonight with a reception lasting from 6-8pm. The exhibition features 16 artists from across the U.S. and their map-inspired work. Not entirely geographical nor political, the artists use maps as a jumping off point to create everything from three-dimensional installations to sculpted fashions. The show will run through September 24. Johnsonese Gallery is located at 2149 W. Armitage Ave. Call 773-252-8750 for more information.

Re-Opening of Mies van der Rohe's Crown Center

This Saturday is the grand re-opening of the Ludwig Mies van der Rohe-designed Crown Hall on the campus of IIT. Restoration of the modernist masterpiece has been completed, and the campus is celebrating with an open house, as well as campus tours, readings, and live music from the M's. ArchitectureChicago Plus has the schedule of events here. If you're a fan of modern design, the IIT campus is truly worth a visit! The festivities run from 11:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M, but the Crown Hall tours run on the hour, every hour. The M's perform at 4:30.

Bucktown Arts Fest

What started as a small gathering of local artists, the annual Bucktown Arts Fest now presents a large variety of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, music and more. It's a great way to check out what's happening in the Chicago art world without being badgered by that pesky "large-scale commercialism." The fest is located at Senior Citizen's Park, at Oakley and Lyndale, near the Western Blue Line stop. Hours are from 11am-7pm. (At the time of posting the official website wasn't working. Here's hoping it is now.)

Last Day Party @ Foundation Gallery

Foundation Gallery is moving to Los Angeles and this is their final day in their Chicago space. Come help them celebrate the move and say goodbye to the city while checking out the art in their sale room. There will also be supplies, furniture and all kinds of things you can pay money to take off their hands. Join them from 1-5pm, take a peek at their final exhibit - the You Are I Am Postcards, and have some cake and booze. Or just come for the cake and booze. Call 312-860-0740 for more information, 700 N. Carpenter St.

ReThink ReCycle ReDesign Exhibition

The Chicago American Institute of Architects will exhibit the final phase of the reThink reDesign reCycle design competition on Daley Plaza. Come out to see 25 prototypes for a new public recycling receptacle for Chicago's neighborhoods. At noon, Mayor Daley will deliver the exhibition keynote address, the public can vote their favorite concepts for the "People's Choice Award", there will be informational booths on Chicago's Live Green campaign, and live music will be provided by the Middle West Pollywogs. The exhibition will be up from 10am to 8pm.

MONDO @ Darkroom

A MONDO show defies description. It's art. But many different kinds visual art, theatre, performance, music all together at once. In no particular order. So if you've seen one show, you still have no idea what to expect next time. This particular incarnation of MONDO will be an Operatic/Carnivalesque fashion show, with vintage opera and circus costumes. Plus performances by People Will Blink, Glass and rotating vinyl by deejays Onefiftyone, C-Mass and John Eldhart.

Then they have the nerve to promise more surprises. Can your heart take it? Go see this Sunday, August 14th, at 9pm at the Darkroom, 2210 West Chicago Ave. $5 cover. More info at Chicago Mondo site.

You Are/I Am Opening @ Foundation Gallery

Previously at Open End Gallery, the You Are/I AM Postcards settle in at Foundation Gallery tonight. The postcards are the result of the You Are Beautiful project, which has been circulating 112 books and 5,000 postcards around the world. The returned pieces will be on display, with the gallery acting as a reading room. The exhibition is open every Sunday through the end of August. 6-10pm at 700 N. Carpenter St. BN. Call 312-860-0740 for more information.

You Am I opens

Purveyors of the finest in positive street art, You Are Beautiful is showcasing it's "You Am I" book exhibition at Open End Gallery today from 6-11pm. The exhibition displays the 111 books that went out into the world to be creatively stamped by many and returned. A $5 dollar donation is suggested, which will go towards funding similar projects.

saturday, july 30th 6-11pm
open-end
2000 w fulton #310
chicago usa
312.738.2140

Hardcore Histories @ Mess Hall

Hardcore Histories is a new series at Mess Hall that will explore many facets of Hardcore Punk music and culture, from its origins in around 1980 up to what’s happening now. The series will provide concrete information and knowledge in a variety of social event formats. All events are free to attend and many will include opportunities for attendees to participate and share their knowledge, music, videos and ephemera.

Tonight we’ll be serving up a free pasta dinner, musically complimented by raging Italian Hardcore Punk records. Included on the menu will be rare records by Raw Power, Negazione, Cheetah Chrome Motherfuckers, Indigesti, Declino, High Circle, and Chain Reaction.

Anyone who has any Italian hardcore records, CDs, cassettes, or video is urged to bring music to share. Pasta dinner is free but please bring a beverage or dessert to share if you can.

Saturday, July 23, 2005, 5:00p - 7:00p at Mess Hall 6932 N. Glenwood Avenue, Rogers Park. www.messhall.org -- "Morse" stop on the Red Line.

Hardcore Histories @ Mess Hall

Hardcore Histories is a new series at Mess Hall that will explore many facets of Hardcore Punk music and culture, from its origins in around 1980 up to what’s happening now. The series will provide concrete information and knowledge in a variety of social event formats. All events are free to attend and many will include opportunities for attendees to participate and share their knowledge, music, videos and ephemera.

Series organizers Marc Fischer and Terence Hannum will kick things off tonight with a presentation and listening session: “Short, Fast, and Loud: A Seven-Inch Survey”.

The hardcore punk seven-inch record has a striking place in the history of recorded music. And let’s not call them “singles” because when hardcore bands started putting out 7”’s, they rarely conformed to the format’s previous function. There wasn’t a single “A-side” song which was the projected radio hit from the full length album, coupled with the “B-side” non album track. Though some hardcore seven inches have only two songs like a typical pop band, it is more common to find at least four. D.R.I. (Dirty Rotten Imbeciles) were arguably the early record holders for the most songs when they jammed 22 tracks onto the “Dirty Rotten” 7” in 1983.

In hardcore, the seven-inch record is a total package unto itself that frequently preceded the first album. Assuming your band didn’t break up before it was time to record an album, the full length may not have had any of the songs that appeared on the seven inch. Fans wouldn’t be expecting redundancy.

Tonight we will bust out lots of great 7”’s from our own record collections to play and discuss. We’ll be bringing out records by bands like M.D.C., D.R.I., Rattus, Enemy Soil, Born Against, The Ex, Poison Idea, HeWhoCorrupts, Palatka, Filthy Christians, Mob 47, and tons more. Many of these records are extremely obscure and hard to see or hear. You are invited to bring any hardcore seven-inches you may have to share. Bring the tunes, we’ll supply the stereo.

Thursday, July 21, 2005, 7:30p-9:30p at Mess Hall 6932 N. Glenwood Avenue, Rogers Park. www.messhall.org -- "Morse" stop on the Red Line.

Johnsonese Gallery Re-Opening

The Johnsonese Gallery has recently relocated to Bucktown to inhabit their new 3,200 square foot space. The new address will be 1822 N. Milwaukee, on the main level of a renovated 1880's building that will allow the gallery three times the space of their previous location. The gallery focuses on showcasing work by emerging artists and making it affordable so that it is accessible to a wide range of collectors, allowing them to follow artists as their careers grow. Join them tonight, 6-8pm, to celebrate the re-opening and to witness Phoenix, their grand opening show.


UPDATE: This show has been canceled.

4Art Opening: The Collection

4Art Inc., 1932 S. Halsted #100, is holding an opening reception for "The Collection." This latest exhibition features a collection of Chicago artists with works in everything from oil paintings to sculptures to digital art. Artists include Alexis Silk, Maureen Warren and Renae Lillie. The reception will last from 6-10pm and the show will run through August 24. Call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Die Kase Hause Closing Reception

From 1-5 PM today, Foundation Gallery will be holding a closing reception for its current exhibition, Die Kase Hause. Die Kase Hause is an artist collective comrpised of Jeremiah Ketner, David Phillips, Gregory Shirilla, Jeffrey Williams and Aaron Zimmerman. According to a recent release, "It is not philosophy or style that unites [them], but rather a true compulsion to make art. What was once a group of students working closely together in Columbus, Ohio now has become a loose collection of members dispersed nationwide." You can see their work on the gallery's website if you like, but the reception is open to all. Foundation Gallery is located in the River West district at 700 North Carpenter Street, one block southeast from the Chicago/Milwaukee/Ogden intersection. Call 312.860.0740 for more information.

Trashy Art

When you think of classic art, you possibly think about the female nude. Whitney Lee has taken that expectation and twisted it a bit. With a latch hook. She's taken the cheesy latch hook kits and combined this with cheesy soft porn imagery to create tasteful wallhangings. Brings a whole new meaning to the idea of having a job as a "fluffer". You can see her one-woman show "Trashy" tonight at the opening at Woman Made Gallery from 6pm to 9pm. But if you can't make it tonight, you can see her art through July 21. And you definitely want to see it. Not only is this one of my favorites that she's done, it's one of the best pictures of a piece of art ever.

Drawn Out @ Gallery 400

Our friend Terence Hannum informs us of an interesting art showing entitled Drawn Out at Gallery 400. The opening reception is today from 5-8pm. It sounds tasty: "Drawn Out explores expanded practices of drawing (for example, drawing as sculpture or drawing as video) with works that are both literally sculptural or time-based and works that remain two dimensional but are no less influenced by the new scope of possibilities in drawing."

Mandala creation @ Cultural Center

Starting today, a group of Tibetan Buddhist monks will begin constructing a sand mandala in the Chicago Cultural Center. Construction will apparently continue through Monday, June 27th, and the mandala will be dismantled and swept up Monday evening. Throughout the days, the public will be invited to watch the monks working on the mandala. See the Cultural Center site for a full schedule of the events surrounding the mandala construction. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. (312) 744-6630.

4Art: Love and Beauty

Tonight, from 6-10pm, 4Art is holding an opening reception for their new exhibition: a collection of oil paintings by Chicago-based artist Robert W. Lee. Although Lee's history of showing is broad -- "from Greenwich Village, and The Cleveland Museum of Art, to international arenas in Yugoslavia, Austria, France and Italy," -- he has not shown his work in Chicago for over eighteen years, making this exhibition quite significant. The pieces will be on display through June 30. 4Art is located at 1932 S. Halsted, #100; call 312-850-1816 for more information.

Aesthetic Eye Gallery Anniversary

Directors Elissa Ferguson and Alex Rodriguez announce the first anniversary of their gallery, Aesthetic Eye, and the opening of their new exhibition "Vim and Vinegar II." The exhibition is "a portrait of the Venn diagram -- a large-scale set of artworks highlighting opposing worlds while illuminating the over-lapping common ground that unifies these worlds." A $1 donation is requested at the door, with proceeds going to help the Tree House Animal Foundation. Aesthetic Eye is located at 1520 W. Chicago Ave. Call 312-243-1520 for more information.

57th St. Art Fair

Today, from 10am-5pm, the 58th annual 57th St. Art Fair will exhibit work from over 300 artists throughout the US and Canada. There will be everything painting to jewlery to photography and more. The two-day fair is free and open to the public. Read more about their history here or call 773-493-3247 for more information. The fair is held in Hyde Park, along 57th St., as is befitting to its name.

57th St. Art Fair

Today, from 11am-6pm, the 58th annual 57th St. Art Fair will exhibit work from over 300 artists throughout the US and Canada. There will be everything painting to jewlery to photography and more. The two-day fair is free and open to the public. Read more about their history here or call 773-493-3247 for more information. The fair is held in Hyde Park, along 57th St., as is befitting to its name.

Art Institute Groundbreaking Ceremony

Join the Art Instutite today as they celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Renzo Piano wing. Beginning at 8:30am, there will be performances in the North Garden, followed by a viewing of Mr. Piano's exhibition, Zero Gravity, at the top of the Grand Staircase. Throughout the day there will be lectures and gallery talks on modern art and architecture. It's shaping up to be a busy day for what will surely be remembered as an historical event.

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Chinese-American Museum of Chicago grand opening

Today Chicago's newest museum, the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, officially opens at 1:00 PM. Their debut exhibition is called "Paper Sons: Chinese in the Midwest, 1870-1945", and is the first exhibition anywhere to focus on early Chinese immigrants in the Midwest area. See the museum's site for full details. Chinese-American Museum of Chicago: 238 W. 23rd. (312) 949-1000.

"Gossip" by Kara Mallett

West Loop gallery ThreeWalls hosts the opening of "Gossip," an exhibition by Vancouver artist Kyla Mallett. Mallett has been in residency throughout the month of May, collecting anonymous tips to be reperformed and recorded for this sound installation. The exhibit opens tonight, with a reception from 6-9pm, and continues through June 25th. Hear this ultramodern soundtrack at 119 North Peoria St. #2a or call 312/432-3972 for more information.

Kathy McGinty release party @ Gallery Hamburger

Chicago is the home of one of the more notorious phone pranksters of recent years. That would be the infamous Kathy McGinty, which was actually Chicago artist Derek Erdman and his friend Julia Rickert trolling chat boards round about 2001, looking for horny guys to call them up and unknowingly interact with a series of audio samples ("I think you might be racist"; "I want to have your retarded babies"). The Kathy McGinty CD is finally getting an official release, and the release party is tonight from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM (!) at Gallery Hamburger, and will feature music by Common Factor and Meaty Ogre. Be there or be unfulfilled. Gallery Hamburger: 1909 S. Halsted. No phone number for the gallery given, but I don't think you want to be calling Derek up.

4Art Printmakers Opening Reception

"The Printmaker is not just an Artist, but a craftsman, a hands-on Laborer who's intensive process adds a new dimension to an original piece of artwork, transforming a mere drawing into something more sublime through one or another of the processes or techniques: etchings, woodcuts, silkscreen, lino cuts, etc." So says 4Art's press release for their new Printmakers show. Tonight's opening reception, from 6-10pm, will feature artists Maureen Warren, Ned Broderick, and Alex Carroll, among others, with special guest Mr. Nathanial, DJ. The show will run through June 3. Call 312-850-1816 for more information. 4Art Inc. is located at 1932 S. Halsted #100.

Gee's Bend Quilting Bee

This afternoon, from 1 to 4pm, hear stories from and see demonstrations by the famous quilters from Gee's Bend, Alabama, at the Field Museum. The event is free with admission, and more details are available via the Field's website. If you can't make it, other quilts and textiles are always on display at the Art Institute.

Talk Arts: The Legalities of Arts

The Evanston Arts Council announces the third free installment of Talk Arts, a series of informational gatherings for artists of all disciplines. This evening's event focuses on Legal Basics and will address legal issues concerning the creative and performing arts. A panel of lawyers, accountants and others will discuss intellectual property laws, the protection of creative expression, taxes and accounting for artists and the legal limits of marketing creative expressions. Stop by Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston, 927 Noyes St., Room 106, to join in the 6:30-8:30pm discussion. For more information contact Valerie Calloway at valerie.calloway[at]kraft.com or Brent Rizel at 847-866-3696, brentritzel[at]yahoo.com.

Monkey Steals the Peach

Mars Gallery, 1139 W. Fulton Market, presents "Monkey Steals the Peach," new paintings and prints by Frank Kozik, Guy Burwell, FERG and Jay Ryan. Tonight's opening reception, 7-10pm, will also feature Skiaphonoi, a sound and video installation by Mark Walter, and all of the artists will be in attendence. The exhibit continues until May 25. Call 312-226-7808 for more information.

Aesthetic Apparatus Opening @ Foundation Gallery

Foundation Gallery, 700 N. Carpenter, is holding an opening party for new works by Aesthetic Apparatus, a team of artists from Minneapolis, from 6pm to 9pm tonight. It's free. For more info, check the site or call 312/860-0740.

Lincoln Square Pottery Studio Student Sale

The Lincoln Square Pottery Studio, at 4150 N. Lincoln Ave, is hosting their 2nd Anniversary Student Sale and Show. From 6pm-10pm, student work will be on display, contests will be thrown, and food and drinks will be provided for all. 773-248-4430 for more information.

INterACTION Opening Reception

Tonight the Hyde Park Art Center hosts an opening reception for INterACTION, their new exhibiton addressing "the social disconnect inherent to the digital age by producing works that encourage viewers to get involved." Admission to the reception is free and lasts from 3-5pm, with an orchestrated performance at 4pm. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Patrick Killoran @ Hyde Park Art Center

New York artist Patrick Killoran visits the Hyde Park Art Center to discuss his exploration of public and private space. With his art based in sculpture and installation, he "focuses on changing our perception of how we experience common objects or structures, often drawing more attention to how we see the world around us rather than the object itself." Admission to the 5pm event is free and will be held at Gallery 400, 1240 W. Harrison. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Opening Reception: All-City Art Exhibition

4Art Gallery is hosting the selected works of twenty-one Chicago Public Schools 2005 Portfolio Scholarship winners. The exhibition, which is organized by the Bureau of Cultural Arts, celebrates talent in the visual arts in CPS high school students. Tonight's reception will last from 4pm-10pm with the show running through April 30. Get yourself to 1932 S. Halsted #100, or call 312-850-1816 for more info.

Spring Formal art show

Spring Formal is a group show for artists Kayde Anobile, Lisa Caplan, Daylene Christensen, Christa Holka, Lia Koo, Morrison Lyman, Alex Mcquilkin, Liz Nielsen, Danielle Paz and Tsurechka at Highschool Space, 1542 N. Milwaukee, tonight from 8pm to midnight. To further your pleasure, Bellafea, Blueberry and DJ QBOT perform. $5 donation gets you in the door. More info here.

Influence: Art + Design Edition

On Tuesday, April 5th, Interrupt Media Group and Subsystence present the next installment of their monthly INFLUENCE night at Sonotheque, this time with a focus on the local art and design community. Cody Hudson, Ray Noland, Chris Silva, and Juan Chavez will DJ after an informal preshow discussion about the state of the Chicago creative scene. Panelists will include Jim Coudal, Brian Ulrich, Michael Coleman, Elizabeth Cline, and GB's very own Naz Hamid and Andrew Huff. Sonotheque is located at 1444 W Chicago Ave, a few blocks east of Ashland. This event is free of charge, but only open to those 21 and up. For more information, or to download a copy of the poster, visit the INFLUENCE website.

GB staff members KM, AH, NH, and JD will be in attendance.

SAIC Undergrad Exhibition Opening Reception

The School of the Art Institute's 2005 Undergraduate Exhibition Opening Reception takes place tonight from 5pm to 8pm at the school's G2 gallery at 847 W. Jackson. It's free, and you better get there early, because it's hard to make it through three warehouse floors of amazing work by more than 280 young artists in that little time.

Lumpenthology

Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. 2nd Flr., hosts Lumpenthology, "the first annual celebration of artists whose work is featured in Lumpen magazine." The theme of the show is intervention, graphic activism, and subversive communications. Work by Melina Ausikaitis, Adam Berninger (The Heft Trade), Ethos, Silas Dilworth, Justin Fines (DEMO), Michael Freimuth, Wyeth Hansen, Joe Marianek, Anne Elizabeth Moore, Aaron Pedersen (C2AK), Alex Rearic (C2AK), Mike Renaud, Daniela Rosner, Kayo Takasugi, Jane Verwys, Chris May & David Weik (Souvenir) and Ryan Waller & Harsh Patel (ThingMaking) will be on display. Copies of the freshly minted Lumpen issue #95 and "other fine goodies" will be handed out to attendees. (This is free, as far as we can tell.)

The exhibition is concurrent with a special Lumpenthology-buddY performance zone. Small Bathroom Fire, Safety Pin, Rotten Milk and DJs Logan Bay and Elisa Harkins perform. Beverages and apps will be provided. Your $10 donation goes towards funding the Version>05 Festival.

Tragic Beauty show closes

"Tragic Beauty," a site-specific installation by Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson and Chris Silva, ends its run today at Open End Gallery, 2000 W. Fulton. The gallery will be open from noon to 6pm; ring buzzer 310 for admittance.

DWR Champagne Chair Tour

Design Within Reach, the fancypants furniture catalog and outlet company, recently sponsored a contest to create a chair prototype featuring elements of a Champagne bottle. The winners are currently on tour to DWR's stores across the country.

On Thursday, from 6pm to 8pm, you can see the winners. DWR will be providing complimentary Champagne and hors d' oeuvres in their historic Hill & Woltersdorf space at 10 East Ohio.

RSVP to treestudio@dwr.com by Tuesday, March 8.

Tragic Beauty

With the support of Bucket Rider Gallery and Chicago Public Art Group, four leading Chicago artists have embarked on a collaboration of unprecedented scale and scope. Tragic Beauty, as envisioned by Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva, will transform Open End Space into an engaging and innovative environment of found materials, natural elements, and multi-media constructions. Tragic Beauty will then be reassembled on the street where installations will take on added dimension and new meaning. Drawing from past collaborations together as well as individual artistic pursuits, Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva will host Tragic Beauty at Open End Space in March, 2005.

Tragic Beauty will be a site-specific installation at Open End Space. Selected for its high ceilings and large open areas, Open End gives the artists the freedom to create work on greater scales without limitations. The flexibility at Open End allows the artists to create an alternative space rather than fill a given space. The artists will have the ability to produce an art installation that uniquely co-functions as a set, a stage, and a venue.

Through innovative use of found material, the space will examine the dichotomies that exist in everyday livingrevealing creation within destruction, hope within despair, and beauty within tragedy. An assembled shipwreck will provide a platform for bands to perform and add a musical component to the month long show. Bands and artists scheduled to perform during the tragic beauty music series are Ulrich Schnauss (City Centre Office, Domino) [Germany], Montag (Carpark) [Canada], Kate Simko, Panthers (Vice), Zombi (Relapse), Pit er Pat (Overcoat Recordings, Thrill Jockey), Icy Demons (Cloud) & Babyteeth. Also at the opening reception, Tony Janda, Qualls, Ben Fasman, John Herndon will be djing.

Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva share a belief in the intersection of art and life and the potential for art and experience. They have established themselves as individual artists both in their studio work and their public work. Each artist pursues an individual career while maintaining strong ties and interests in collaborative work. Together, the artists of Tragic Beauty have backgrounds in street collaborations, graffiti, public art, graphic design, painting, and gallery installations. Their work reflects a unique urban consciousness and understanding. For them, this project provides an opportunity to expand the scope of their work and the scope of their audiences. Juan, Mike, Cody, and Chris are eager to see the realization of Tragic Beautys potential as an art object and as a community venue.

Tragic Beauty Music Series schedule:

Friday, March 4th : opening reception with djs:
Tony Janda
Qualls
Ben Fasmen
John Herndon

Friday, March 18th
Ulrich Schnauss (City Centre Office, Domino) [Germany]
Montag (Carpark) [Canada]
Kate Simko

Tuesday, March 22nd
Panthers (Vice)
Zombi (Relapse)

Friday, March 25th
Pit er Pat (Overcoat Recordings, Thrill Jockey)
Icy Demons (Cloud)
Babyteeth

www.tragicbeauty.org
www.mudstudios.com
www.genovesestudios.com
www.struggleinc.com
www.chrissilva.com

Behind the Lions

It's Behind the Lions Day (scroll to Special Programs) at the Art Institute! Today you and your family can visit the museum and do all sorts of arty, crafty, music type things, including going on a treasure hunt through the galleries and participating in a 20 minute guided tour. You can even meet Artie, the museum's mascot. Who doesn't love a giant, anthropomorphic, cartoon-faced lion?

7th Annual SPAM Sculpture Contest

Come on out to the Gallery Caberet at 2020 N. Oakley in Bucktown for a night of SPAM Carving fun. Bring your own can of SPAM and some handy things to use when decorating it, or purchase your SPAM on site. After all of the sculptures have been considered, win a prize medal to take home.

Costumes are strongly encouraged but not required, as is a food donation to benefit the R.E.S.T shelter in Uptown. 6-8pm at the Gallery Cabaret. Check out www.planetshwoop.com/noise for more info.

Nutshell of Unexplained Death @ Glessner House

Who knew the deep secrets lurking beneath the surface of the Glessner House Museum? Apparently, the Glessners. In a new exhibit, Frances Glessner Lee and The Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death, which opens today, visitors can explore Glessner Lee's own incredibly detailed dioramas of crime scenes, complete with tiny shell casings and blood stains. The exhibit is open until April 30, and the Glessner House is located in the South Loop at 1800 South Prairie Avenue, Chicago, call (312) 326-1480 for more information. Admission is a teeny tiny $2 (and is free tonight during the opening reception from 6-8pm).

Robert Blackburn's Printmaking Exhibit Reception

[C]Spaces and Glass Curtain Gallery present "Creative Space: Fifty Years of Robert Blackburn's Printmaking Workshop," January 31 March 25, 2005. Please come out at 6pm on February 24th as co-curator Deborah Cullen, curator El Museo Del Barrio, New York City, will discuss Blackburn's legacy. This is a Library of Congress exhibition realized in collaboration with International Print Center New York (IPCNY) and the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts, and features artwork from the Robert Blackburn Printmaking Workshop Archives and Collection, on deposit at the Library of Congress. Blackburn (1920-2003) changed the course of American art through his graphic work and the Printmaking Workshop, which he founded in New York City in 1948. His pioneering contributions to the technical and aesthetic development of abstract color lithography are as legendary as his generosity in encouraging and training thousands of diverse artists to experiment in the graphic medium. Creative Space includes a key selection of Blackburn's own work and a dazzling array of prints by students and noted collaborators and colleagues since the 1940s. The exhibit is on display at the Glass Curtain Gallery, 1104 S. Wabash, Chicago. Admission is free, call312.344.6650 for more information.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

This weekend marks the Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival, with visual art, theater, performances and film screenings taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Visual art can be viewed today, Sunday, from 11-6pm. There will be exhibitions and performances by more than 100 visual artists exhibiting a diverse collection of photography, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the Flat Iron Arts Building at 1579 N. Milwaukee. The ATC Winter Theatre Festival provides a venue to examine the unique collaboration between playwright and director. This festival features several short, raw plays--each of which has been born out of artistic partnerships between local playwrights and emerging directors. The ATC Short Film & Video will be held at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee, on Friday and Sunday. They'll have some of the moviemakers at the screening both nights to field your comments and question. There will also be voting for the winter winner of the Audience Choice Award. We will show two sets each night, one nice and the other "naughty".

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

This weekend marks the Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival, with visual art, theater, performances and film screenings taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Visual art can be viewed Saturday 11-10pm and Sunday 11-6pm. There will be exhibitions and performances by more than 100 visual artists exhibiting a diverse collection of photography, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the Flat Iron Arts Building at 1579 N. Milwaukee. The ATC Winter Theatre Festival provides a venue to examine the unique collaboration between playwright and director. This festival features several short, raw plays--each of which has been born out of artistic partnerships between local playwrights and emerging directors. The ATC Short Film & Video will be held at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee, on Friday and Sunday. They'll have some of the moviemakers at the screening both nights to field your comments and question. There will also be voting for the winter winner of the Audience Choice Award. We will show two sets each night, one nice and the other "naughty".

Chicago Critical Mass Art Show

The 8th Annual Critical Mass Art Show opens today from 6-11 pm at HighSchool (1542 N. Milwaukee, 3rd floor). The show features bike-themed art, anti-car art, and art about public transportation. The opening is a potluck, so bring food to share and meet some of Chicago's coolest cyclists while taking in all kinds of interesting art.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival

This weekend marks the Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival, with visual art, theater, performances and film screenings taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Visual art can be viewed Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11-10pm and Sunday 11-6pm. There will be exhibitions and performances by more than 100 visual artists exhibiting a diverse collection of photography, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the Flat Iron Arts Building at 1579 N. Milwaukee. The ATC Winter Theatre Festival provides a venue to examine the unique collaboration between playwright and director. This festival features several short, raw plays--each of which has been born out of artistic partnerships between local playwrights and emerging directors. The ATC Short Film & Video will be held at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee, on Friday and Sunday. They'll have some of the moviemakers at the screening both nights to field your comments and question. There will also be voting for the winter winner of the Audience Choice Award. We will show two sets each night, one nice and the other "naughty".

"Shot Through the Heart" Art Show

I'm not sure putting what we got about this one into sentence form would do it any justice, so here's the info we received:

an evening of Love and Pain featuring:
CRUSHIN'
a crush reunion & international art show curated by rebecca grady
after party with performances by:
HANDSTRING HEARTJOB
THE JEALOUSY
BRRRN
and special events:
LOVERS and FIGHTERS PRIZE BOXING
MULTIMEDIA KISSING BOOTH & CONFESSIONAL
ZINE SALE, VALENTINE & TELEGRAM DELIVERY
djs:
CASTRATION DJ, JOHNNY LOVE & SURRA THE HUN

*_Diamonds on Archer (1st floor)_
3012 S. Archer Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60608*
(on Archer between Lock St. and Broad St.)

*_To get there:_*_ _
*by train:* take the orange line to ashland, walk two blocks northeast along archer ave.
*by bus:* take the #9/ashland bus or #62/archer bus to lock st.
*by highway:* I55 - exit at Damen, head south on Damen, left on 33rd, left on Archer and continue to Lock St. I90/94 - exit at 18th, head west on 18th, left at Halsted, right on Archer

Nudes @ 4Art Gallery

4Art Gallery invites you to attend the opening reception of "Nude," an exhibition of all nude artwork, in many different styles and media. The human form will be portrayed through the sculptures, paintings, drawings, digital art, and video of more than a dozen Chicago artists. The opening reception is tonight from 6 pm to 10 pm. Featured Artists: M.R. Shebesta, Vince Chiaramonte, Jerod Schmidt, Susan Clinard, Nefty Centeno, Ned Broderick, E.K. Buckley, Phil Onofrio, Melanie Lieb, Clara Batton Smith, Zsofia Otvos, Andy Barker. The show runs through March 3, 2005. While you are there, explore the rest of the Chicago Arts District.There will be more than a dozen galleries and studios open this Second Friday, all within walking distance of each other. The 4 Art Gallery is located at 1932 South Halsted, Unit 100. Regular gallery hours are TuesdaySaturday, 10 am6 pm. For more information about the gallery or its services, please contact Jerod Schmidt or Robin Rios at 312.850.1816.

Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival Opening

This year's Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival gets going tonight with poetry by Chicago poet Cin Salach along with the Curator's Choice Exhibition & Silent Auction in the Flat Iron Arts Building's north entrance at 1939-1/2 W. North Avenue. Party-goers can enjoy complimentary food, drink, and music while bidding on their favorite piece of art, and unlike in the past, the Curators' Choice show and silent auction will close at 11pm the same evening. There's also plenty of Film, Theater and Performances to check out each of the three regular festival nights. See the Around the Coyote website for a full schedule.

Working Girl

The role of women in the working world has always been a heated point of contention. In A New Role: Images of Women in the Working World at the Turn of the Century, the Art Institute will discuss the debate's place in the art world through the depiction of women at labor in 19th and 20th century and how the artist's gender may have affected the presented view. The talk begins at 1:00pm and admission is free. Call 312-443-3600 for general information.

Art Prostitute Release Party

This Friday, at Chicago's Bucket Rider Gallery, the folks behind Art Prostitute magazine will be in town to celebrate the release of their fifth issue, Still Alive. Featuring work from Gary Baseman, Tiffany Bozic, Kozyndan, and Cody Hudson, this should be a nice way to start off the weekend. The party is free, but a 20-spot in support of the cause gets you a copy of the new issue. If you're lucky, Cody might even sign it for you. What more could you ask for?

African American Vernacular Art @ Intuit

Intuit: The Center for Outsider and Intuitive Art presents a discussion of African American vernacular art, or artwork created and used in everyday life. Members of the discussion panel will include artist Lonnie Holley and women quliters from Gee's Bend, Alabama, and the presentation will also feature a slide presentation by scholar, curator and author William Arnett. For more information on the event, see this press release from Intuit. The event starts at 2:00 PM, and is free and open to the public. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Tony Fitzpatrick Book Signing @ Myopic

Artist Tony Fitzpatrick - whose work includes many of Steve Earle's album covers - will be signing his new book The Wonder: Portraits of a Remembered City Volume 1 at Myopic Books, 1564 N. Milwaukee, tonight at 7:30pm. Dig.

Ed Paschke interview on Artbeat Chicago

One of the final interviews with the late Chicago artist Ed Paschke will be broadcast tonight on WTTW's Artbeat Chicago. Showtime is 10:00 PM.

FOUND: The Magazine, The Stuff @ Intuit

FOUND Magazine, the wonderful periodical that prints items found by its readers (mostly notes, photographs and writings of all kinds) is opening an exhibit of found items today. The show, titled "FOUND: The Magazine, The Stuff", will be at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art. In a magazine piece about the upcoming show, FOUND co-editor Jason Bitner mentions that there are a number of three-dimensional pieces that aren't included in the magazine proper, so there will probably be a number of never-before-seen found objects in the show. There will be a reception tonight from 5:00 to 8:00 to celebrate the opening of the exhibit, and the show will run at Intuit through January 29th. Intuit is open 12:00 to 5:00 Wednesdays through Saturdays, and admission is free. Call or check their Website for more details. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

First Fridays @ MCA

You knew it was coming: First Fridays at the MCA kick off the new year tonight. Enjoy the museum after-hours with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and music by DJ Madrid. Featured exhibition: Olivia Block. This month's theme: celebrate the body. Hip -hop demo by Holmes Place representatives, bodypainting by Anthony Larrissey; and Bring your swimsuit for the post-party at the Holmes Place pool. $14 ($7 MCA members) 610pm, cash bar until 9:30 p.m. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., one block east from Michigan Avenue.

Zhou Brothers' Exhibit

Chicago-based Zhou Brothers have a great exhibit up at the Cultural Center of Chicago. From the center: "This exhibition marks the 30th anniversary of the Zhou Brothers artistic collaboration and will consist of paintings, prints, drawings and sculpture. The exhibition itself is a collaboration, a co-presentation by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs at the Chicago Cultural Center and the Elmhurst Art Museum, with complementary portions presented in each location. The Zhous came to Chicago from China in 1986 and have since garnered international acclaim for their synthesis of Eastern traditions and Western abstraction." The exhibit is free and is up in the exhibit hall until January 2, 2005, so hop to it! The Cultural Center is located at 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. For more information, call (312) 744-6630.

Drawing to an End

Drawing to an End is, erm, drawing to a close. Today marks the final day for Foundation Gallery's latest group show, which highlights work from gallery staples Jay Ryan, Nick Butcher, Dan Grzeca, Justin Fines, and Seripop. Using time as a common theme, "this exhibition allows the artists to demonstrate what a drawing means to each of them." Foundation is located at 700 North Carpenter, and is open from 1 to 5 on Sundays. Admission is free.

Preparations, Multiples, & Outcomes Closing

Closing today is an excellent show at Columbia's Center for Book and Paper Arts, featuring work from Chicagoans Jay Ryan, of Dianogah fame, as well as Archer Prewitt, of local favorites The Sea and Cake. Blessed not only with musical talent, both Ryan and Prewitt are equally well-known for their abilities as visual artists. There is a massive amount of work on display here, showcasing Prewitt's Sof'Boy character as well as a comprehensive selection of Ryan's work as The Bird Machine. Be sure to catch this one before it's gone — it comes highly recommended.

Winter Festival of Art

Head on down to the Chicago Arts District this weekend at South Halsted and 18th Street for their gala Winter Festival of Art. More than 50 artists will have their galleries and studios open all weekend long. The monthly Second Friday gallery openings will kick-off the festival tomorrow starting at 6pm. Then the event continues Saturday from 12-7pm and Sunday from 12-5pm. Visit the website for more information.

Winter Festival of Art

Head on down to the Chicago Arts District this weekend at South Halsted and 18th Street for their gala Winter Festival of Art. More than 50 artists will have their galleries and studios open all weekend long. The monthly Second Friday gallery openings will kick-off the festival tomorrow starting at 6pm. Then the event continues Saturday from 12-7pm and Sunday from 12-5pm. Visit the website for more information.

Winter Festival of Art

Head on down to the Chicago Arts District this weekend at South Halsted and 18th Street for their gala Winter Festival of Art. More than 50 artists will have their galleries and studios open all weekend long. The monthly Second Friday gallery openings will kick-off the festival tomorrow starting at 6pm. Then the event continues Saturday from 12-7pm and Sunday from 12-5pm. Visit the website for more information.

Art for Charity Holiday Party

The Art for Charity Holiday Party takes place at the Johnsonese Gallery tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. All are invited to the gallery to enjoy contemporary art, seasonal refreshments and live entertainment from Jesus impersonator and singer Jeff Vezain! The event is free. Shop for holiday gifts--partial proceeds from all sales will be donated to the AIDS Legal Council of Chicago.Plus see the original holiday tree by political commentator Topher Vid Son. There will be holiday cookies, eggnog and live music. The Johnsonese Gallery is located in Lake View at 867 W. Buckingham Place (on the lower level), at the corner of Clark and Buckingham, just north of Belmont approximately 3200 North.Look for the State Bank of Countryside on the main level. Contact the gallery at 773.525.5877 or email info[at]johnsonese.com.

MCA First Fridays: Holiday Edition

Tonight's First Fridays at the MCA offers you some holiday fun from 6 to 10 p.m. First, the Steve Evans Quartet plays some sweet sweet music, while you munch on Puck's appetizers and guzzle chocolate martinis. Plus, you can create personalized wrapping paper and crafty cards at the holiday creation station. Best of all, you can check out Between Past and Future, a stellar exhibit of Chinese photography and video before it closes. Tickets are $7 for members and $14 for nonmembers. Tickets are available at the door. A special $20 ticket includes admission to one screening of RESFEST Digital Film Festival in the MCA theater. A cash bar is available until 9:30 p.m. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

DJ Spooky "Rebirth of a Nation" @ MCA

DJ Spooky comes to Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) to present "Rebirth of a Nation" for four nights (Nov. 1821) at 7:30 p.m. From the MCA: "Every culture has mythmakers, storytellers who can capture the essence of today and push it into the future. Paul D. Miller, also known as DJ Spooky, That Subliminal Kid, is a multitalented trickster of the imploding digital age whose mercurial mind crisscrosses cultures. Now he tackles one of the defining images of America D. W. Griffith's profoundly racist, controversial and prophetic 1915 film Birth of A Nation. Tracing the roots of America's quick-cut, media-saturated popular culture, he remixes Griffith's film, fragmenting and melding it with new footage on three screens set to DJ Spooky's illbient score creating a counter-narrative in which new stories can rise from the ashes." Look at his website for more information on DJ Spooky. Tickets are $22, $18 (MCA members). For tickets, please call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010 or visit TicketWeb.

DJ Spooky "Rebirth of a Nation" @ MCA

DJ Spooky comes to Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) to present "Rebirth of a Nation" for four nights (Nov. 1821) at 7:30 p.m. From the MCA: "Every culture has mythmakers, storytellers who can capture the essence of today and push it into the future. Paul D. Miller, also known as DJ Spooky, That Subliminal Kid, is a multitalented trickster of the imploding digital age whose mercurial mind crisscrosses cultures. Now he tackles one of the defining images of America D. W. Griffith's profoundly racist, controversial and prophetic 1915 film Birth of A Nation. Tracing the roots of America's quick-cut, media-saturated popular culture, he remixes Griffith's film, fragmenting and melding it with new footage on three screens set to DJ Spooky's illbient score creating a counter-narrative in which new stories can rise from the ashes." Look at his website for more information on DJ Spooky. Tickets are $22, $18 (MCA members). For tickets, please call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010 or visit TicketWeb.

DJ Spooky "Rebirth of a Nation" @ MCA

DJ Spooky comes to Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) to present "Rebirth of a Nation" for four nights (Nov. 1821) at 7:30 p.m. From the MCA: "Every culture has mythmakers, storytellers who can capture the essence of today and push it into the future. Paul D. Miller, also known as DJ Spooky, That Subliminal Kid, is a multitalented trickster of the imploding digital age whose mercurial mind crisscrosses cultures. Now he tackles one of the defining images of America D. W. Griffith's profoundly racist, controversial and prophetic 1915 film Birth of A Nation. Tracing the roots of America's quick-cut, media-saturated popular culture, he remixes Griffith's film, fragmenting and melding it with new footage on three screens set to DJ Spooky's illbient score creating a counter-narrative in which new stories can rise from the ashes." Look at his website for more information on DJ Spooky. Tickets are $22, $18 (MCA members). For tickets, please call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010 or visit TicketWeb.

DJ Spooky "Rebirth of a Nation" @ MCA

DJ Spooky comes to Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) to present "Rebirth of a Nation" for four nights (Nov. 1821) at 7:30 p.m. From the MCA: "Every culture has mythmakers, storytellers who can capture the essence of today and push it into the future. Paul D. Miller, also known as DJ Spooky, That Subliminal Kid, is a multitalented trickster of the imploding digital age whose mercurial mind crisscrosses cultures. Now he tackles one of the defining images of America D. W. Griffith's profoundly racist, controversial and prophetic 1915 film Birth of A Nation. Tracing the roots of America's quick-cut, media-saturated popular culture, he remixes Griffith's film, fragmenting and melding it with new footage on three screens set to DJ Spooky's illbient score creating a counter-narrative in which new stories can rise from the ashes." Look at his website for more information on DJ Spooky. Tickets are $22, $18 (MCA members). For tickets, please call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010 or visit TicketWeb.

Photography Opening @ 4Art Gallery

Five local photographers of various styles present a new show titled The MEDIUM at the 4Art Gallery (1932 S Halsted) in the Pilsen neighborhood.An opening reception will take place Friday from 6-10pm. The show will run through January 1, 2005.

Photography from The MEDIUM highlights a variety of styles including realism, fantasy, fashion, organic emotions and fetishes.

The opening will also feature a fashion show from designer Agnieszka Kulons Kreatia line; four one-of-a-kind natural fabric garments based on Vivaldis Four Seasons with music mixed by local sound editor, Lesley Fogle. DJ Nathaniel (Bez) will provide additional music for the opening, spinning down tempo records along with original work.

The featured photographers are Adam Bielawski, Piotr Buczynski, Agnieszka Kulon, Stan Malinowski and Mariah D.Smith.

Furilla Opening Party @ Rotofugi

Head to Rotofugi, 1953 W. Chicago, tonight between 7pm and 11pm for "Furilla: The Untold Story," the opening party for the designer toy store's latest gallery show.


"Meet Furilla artist/discoverer Toren Orzeck and party down as we celebrate
the opening of "Furilla: The Untold Story" in our humble little gallery
space. OK, it's more like a gallery corner, we admit it. Regardless, stop
on by Friday night for drinks and listen to Clayton Counts spin an
eclectic mix of jazz, rock and hip-hop. Win signed Furilla goodies (or buy
them and get Tory to sign them). Good times."


Free. Call 312/491-9501 for more info.

SOFA 2004

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art, or SOFA, rolls into Navy Pier closes today. Come see what's happening in the art world, and pick up a cool sculpture or two. Noon to 6pm. Tickets are $12.

SOFA 2004

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art, or SOFA, rolls into Navy Pier today through Sunday. Come see what's happening in the art world today. The show runs today from 11am to 8pm and tomorrow from noon to 6pm -- tickets are $12 a day or $20 for a weekend pass.

First Fridays @ MCA

At First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.

First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors doeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 610 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

SOFA 2004

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art, or SOFA, rolls into Navy Pier today through Sunday. Come see what's happening in the art world today. The show runs Friday and Saturday, 11am to 8pm, Sunday noon to 6pm -- tickets are $12 a day or $20 for a weekend pass.

SOFA Public Preview

Tonight from 7pm to 10pm is the public preview of SOFA Chicago at Navy Pier. Officially known as the "International Expo of Sculpture, Objects and Functional Art," SOFA is one of the best ways to find out what's going on in the art world today -- and buy it, if you've got the money. Tickets to the preview are $25 at the door.


The show runs Friday and Saturday, 11am to 8pm, Sunday noon to 6pm -- tickets are $12 a day or $20 for a weekend pass.

Halloween Party @ The Field

Check out Halloween Play the Field inside Stanley Field Hall @ The Field Museum on Thursday, October 28, from 6 p.m.-11p.m.

Get into the spirit of Halloween at the Field Museum, home to the scary movie Relic and countless ghost stories of spooks haunting the Fields halls. This is a great way to enjoy the Field Museum and Chicagos downtown culture. Join the monthly event Play The Field! for a chance to mix culture with cocktails. Experience some of the nations top live bands inside the magnificent Stanley Field Hall and explore the Fields amazing exhibits.

Ticket price includes a complimentary beverage. Advance Tickets $15 available through www.fieldmuseum.org or call 866-FIELD-03. $20 at the door. 21 & over only. All proceeds benefit The Field Museum

Andersonville Arts Walk Weekend

Join friendly Andersonvillians around their neighborhood this weekend for the annual Andersonville Arts Walk. Galleries, shops, and restaurants will be open special hours to display local art and performances. Highlights include the NeoFuturist production of "Alice" told via a walking tour of the neighborhood plus visual art from over 100 artists. Call 773-728-2995 for more information, or look for the great brochures in Andersonville businesses with the kinda creepy lady on the front.

Steve Brodner @ Quimby's

Steve Brodner is one of the most savage editorial cartoonist to work in the U.S., with work in The New Yorker, "Mother Jones," "Rolling Stone" and more. He will be signing copies of his first book Freedom Fries and drawing the 2004 presidential candidates, live on the spot at 4 p.m. at Quimby's Bookstore, located at 1854 West North Avenue, Chicago. Call 773/342-0910 for some more info.

Andersonville Arts Walk Weekend

Join friendly Andersonvillians around their neighborhood this weekend for the annual Andersonville Arts Walk. Galleries, shops, and restaurants will be open special hours to display local art and performances. Highlights include the NeoFuturist production of "Alice" told via a walking tour of the neighborhood plus visual art from over 100 artists. Call 773-728-2995 for more information, or look for the great brochures in Andersonville businesses with the kinda creepy lady on the front.

Andersonville Arts Walk Weekend

Join friendly Andersonvillians around their neighborhood this weekend for the annual Andersonville Arts Walk. Galleries, shops, and restaurants will be open special hours to display local art and performances. Highlights include the NeoFuturist production of "Alice" told via a walking tour of the neighborhood plus visual art from over 100 artists. The kick-off party is tonight from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. At Atmosphere, 5355 N. Clark. Meet participating artists, enjoy food provided by Angels Restaurant. Cash bar. The Kick-off party will feature a silent auction of works donated by participating artists. All proceeds will benefit the after-school programs of Peirce Elementary School. Call 773-728-2995 for more information, or look for the great brochures in Andersonville businesses with the kinda creepy lady on the front.

"License to Live" Opening @ Foundation Gallery

The Foundation Gallery opens a new solo show tonight featuring the work of local artist Dan Grzeca (see some of his older work, including gig posters, ads, etc. here). Titled "License To Live: Portraits and Oddities Painted, Drawn and Printed" this show is running in conjunction with Chicago Artists' Month and will be up through November 14. The exhibition features Grzeca's newest body of work exploring myth and storytelling in the form of head studies painted on wood panel in acrylic, metal leaf and enamel, mixed media drawings and limited edition silk-screened prints. The influences and inspiration for the imagery and style comes from such places as sideshow banner painting, Max Ernst, contemporary underground comics and screen printed posters, punk rock and free jazz. The opening celebration is tonight from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 312-860-0740 or email info@foundation-gallery.org or check out their online backroom. The Foundation Gallery is located at 700 N. Carpenter Street (just south of the intersection of Milwaukee and Chicago in River West).

Drag King Art Exhibit

International Drag King Extravaganza 6 (IDKE6) kicks off at HotHouse with dis/locator, an art exhibit showcasing gender-bending art from some of the most talented artists within and friends of the drag king community. Meet the artists from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and enjoy special entertainment until midnight. The event is free.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Dis/locater Opening @ HotHouse

Tonight at The HotHouse located at 31 E. Balbo, between State & Wabash from 6:309 p.m. is the grand opening of the exhibit Dis/locator. Dis/locator is an exhibition in conjunction with IDKE that includes work by artists within the gender queer community curated for the same population, with the intent of encouraging the voyeurism of outsiders. The exhibition's aim is to take the temperature of this sub-group while allowing the outlying society to view a sincere look into the compounded perspectives of an already radicalcommunity. Free admission, free wine, great art. 18 and over only, please.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Immediate Consumption @ Heaven Gallery

Immediate Consumption, a touring video rap show featuring rapper B-Lite, hits the Heaven Gallery, 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor, tonight at 8pm. $6 gets you in the door. Call 773/342-4597 for more info.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Illinois Arts Week

This year, October 39 is Illinois Arts Week. Check out the vast Arts Week brochure (PDF) for a full schedule of events all around the state. Events in Chicago include a walking tour of Rogers Park galleries, an experimental Chinese photography and film exhibit at the University of Chicago Film Studies Center and the MCA, and a performance of "A View from the Bridge" at the American Theater Company. Check the Illinois Arts Council website for more information about other Arts Week programs.

Pilsen East Artists' Open House

The 34th annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House takes place this weekend. Open house hours are Saturday & Sunday, October 2 and 3, from 12 to 7 p.m. For more information and a map (PDF) check out the Chicago Arts District website, or call Cynthia West at 312-738-8000, ex. 108, or email cwest@chicagoartsdistrict.org or info@chicagoartsdistrict.org.

Will Travel: New Paintings by Russ Pope

From the Foundation Gallery website: "Russ Pope has made a career of integrating his art and dedication to skateboarding for the past twenty years. From start-up skateboard ventures to his current position as director of operations for Black Label Skateboards, Russ creates an aesthetic that reiterates the energy of skateboard culture...The exhibition will feature acrylic works on both canvas and paper, as well as a new 2 dimensional, 5 foot tall pop-up character standing guard of the exhibition." Foundation Gallery is located at 700 N Carpenter, near the intersection of Milwaukee and Chicago. Open Sunday, October 3rd from 1-5 pm or by appointment.

Outsider Art sale

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents a two-day sale of folk and outsider art from all across the country. The sale runs today at 847 W. Jackson, 2nd floor. Hours are 11:00 - 6:00. In addition to the sale, there will be an open house this morning at Intuit (756 N. Milwaukee) from 9:00 to 11:00. For more details, see the Intuit Website, or call them at (312) 243-9088.

Pilsen East Artists' Open House

The 34th annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House takes place this weekend. Open house hours are Saturday & Sunday, October 2 and 3, from 12 to 7 p.m. For more information and a map (PDF) check out the Chicago Arts District website, or call Cynthia West at 312-738-8000, ex. 108, or email cwest@chicagoartsdistrict.org or info@chicagoartsdistrict.org.

Outsider Art sale

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents a two-day sale of folk and outsider art from all across the country. The sale runs today and tomorrow at 847 W. Jackson, 2nd floor. Hours are 11:00 - 7:00 today, 11:00 - 6:00 tomorrow. In addition to the sale, there will be a Sunday morning open house at Intuit (756 N. Milwaukee) tomorrow morning from 9:00 to 11:00. For more details, see the Intuit Website, or call them at (312) 243-9088.

First Fridays @ MCA

At First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.

First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors doeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 610 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

Pilsen East Artists' Open House

The 34th annual Pilsen East Artists' Open House takes place this weekend. The opening night and 3rd year anniversary party is tonight, October 1, 6 to 11 p.m. Open house hours are on Saturday & Sunday, October 2 & 3, from 12 to 7 p.m. For more information and a map (PDF) check out the Chicago Arts District website, or call Cynthia West at 312-738-8000, ex. 108, or email cwest@chicagoartsdistrict.org or info@chicagoartsdistrict.org.

Outspoken: Chicago's Free Speech Tradition Exhibit Opens

The Newberry Library presents: Outspoken: Chicago's Free Speech Tradition which runs today thru January 15, 2005. The exhibit is "designed to prompt reflection and provoke discussion about how freedom of speech has been and continues to be defined, impeded, championed, and exercised in Chicago. This exhibit about Chicago's vibrant history of free expression includes approximately 130 objects from the collections of the Newberry Library and the Chicago Historical Society. Objects on display include artifacts, photographs, letters, magazines, newspapers, and ephemera relating to: slavery, immigration, labor relations, women's suffrage, communism, women's liberation, 1960s counterculture, presidential elections, Indian rights, Black Power, gay rights, and anti-war protests." The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton Street. Admission is free.

Cineme International Animation Festival

This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 2426. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.

Cineme International Animation Festival

This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 2426. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.

Cineme International Animation Festival

This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 2426. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.

Around the Coyote Arts Festival

Tonight's the last night of the 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival which takes place this weekend in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.

Around the Coyote Arts Festival

The 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival takes place this weekend in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.

TOJO Gallery Opening

Around the Coyote brings lots of people to the area who don't come there on a regular basis. It can be fun (and stuffy and crowded) wandering through the live/work studios. So if you want to get away, hit some of the area galleries and revel in more art, and less stuffiness. Tojo Gallery is opening up this weekend and seems like a great new place to pop by for ideas, and maybe a beautiful photo, a sculpture, or a unique fused-glass bowl. They're having a special reception tonight beginning at 8 p.m, so stop by 1418 W. Division.

Around the Coyote Arts Festival

Tonight's the opening night for the 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.

DEPART-ment

Stock up on your unique objects and fabulous crafty things at the latest DEPART-ment, kicking off tonight from 7-11 and going on Saturday and Sunday from 11-5. DEPART-ment takes place at Open End Gallery, located at 2000 W Fulton.

Sneaker Pimps

Sneaker Pimps comes to Chicago! Tinta Roja gallery will be hosting the Sneaker Pimps exhibition, which will feature a collection of rare, limited, vintage and artist designed sneakers, as well as sneaker inspired art. The opening night festivities are from 8pm until late. Tinta Roja is located at 2701 W Division.

TOJO Gallery Opening

Around the Coyote brings lots of people to the area who don't come there on a regular basis. It can be fun (and stuffy and crowded) wandering through the live/work studios. So if you want to get away, hit some of the area galleries and revel in more art, and less stuffiness. Tojo Gallery is opening up this weekend and seems like a great new place to pop by for ideas, and maybe a beautiful photo, a sculpture, or a unique fused-glass bowl. They're having a special reception tonight beginning at 8 p.m, so stop by 1418 W. Division.

Cody Hudson @ Bucket Rider gallery

"The Life and Times of Cody Hudson Volume 2 b/w The Parrot on Your Shoulder" opens tonight at Bucket Rider. The reception is from 6-9, and the show will be up through October 16. To see some more of Cody Hudson's work visit his website here.

Local Comics Scene Talk & Film Screening

In conjunction with the exhibit "Raw, Boiled & Cooked: Comics on the Verge," local guitarist and artist Archer Prewitt of The Sea & Cake will be joined by Alex Wald, tonight at 6 p.m. to provide a brief overview of the local comics scene before a screening of the films "Hooked on Comix, Volumes 1 & 2" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center.

Transfigured Transformers @ Rotofugi

"The next show in the Rotofugi Gallery is by Chicago artist Jefrey Lacson. Titled Transfigured Transformers, the show will exhibit several of Lacsons large format prints and constructions based upon Transformer toys. Weve seen about half of the work that is going into the show and are super excited to have this in our gallery. Very cool stuff. Think Transformers turned into religious icons and mandalas. The show will up for viewing beginning August 31, and the opening reception (where you can meet and hang out with Jefrey) will be September 3 beginning at 7pm. Free drinks. Oh yeah." kk (Rotofugi).

First Fridays @ MCA

At First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.

First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors doeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 610 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

Tense Forms Showcase at the Subterranean

Tonight, local record label Tense Forms presents a showcase of art and music at the Subterranean. This evening marks Tense Forms' re-formation as a 10-person collective whose mission is "to continue supporting painters and poets and photographers and musicians while carefully growing into a tiny media empire." Tonight's show features: Casey Meehan and the Delta Still's bluesy New Orleans influenced swamp rock, Andy Wagner's thick and sad and dusty folk/country songs, the autumn-waking's swirling fierce space/art rock and The Treatment's stuttering scrappy post-punk sounds. As well as prints, paintings and photographs by: Mark Benson, Craig Blakeman, Kirk Bravender, Leah Dickey, Steve Eck, Nora McComiskey, Dasha Posedel, Kate Raney, Matt Rose. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the cover is 5 dollars. The Subterranean is located at 2011 W. North Ave, at the corner of Milwaukee, Damen and North.

Video Machete Attic Sale and Open House

Today, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Video Machete will open its doors for a sale and open house. Video Machete is a community organization that relies on public support to serve over 400 youth annually, local and nation-wide educators, artists, media makers, minorities and underserved Chicago communities. Drop by Saturday to tour their workshop facilities and meet the staff. Learn about their numerous programs and projects and get involved in your community. Theyll be accepting innovative ideas, artist and educator resumes, and volunteer applications. If youre an artist, an administrator, an advocate or a community member, they hope to see you there.

On sale will be: tons of computer hardware, 4-foot poster printer, video editing and design loaded iMACs, furniture, etc. all incredibly priced. They are also accepting donations and providing tax donation receipts for larger item sales. It all goes to support their media arts programming and Video Machetes 10-year anniversary celebration this fall!

Video Machete is located at 1180 N. Milwaukee Avenue, # 2F, Chicago, IL. (Division stop off the Blue Line)

Perpetual Motion Roadshow @ Quimby's

The famed indie press tour The Perpetual Motion Roadshow features broken-hearted comic artist Willow Dawson from Toronto, poet & librarian & sex educator Megan Butcher from Ottawa, and king of the roadkills Bucky Sinister from San Francisco. The crafty lo-fi vids of Jon Sasaki will be featured between the acts. Chicago filmmaker Paul Brittain, winner of this winter's Vidiocy contest, will show his winning film, "The Invitation." 8pm at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave. Free/Pay what you can; more info at No Media Kings.

"8 Ball" Artists' Reception

Tonight's the opening night for a new show at 4 Art Inc. The show features the varied work of eight Chicago artists: Thomas Masters, Lee Tracy, Tim Anderson, Ned Broderick, Janine Clevenger, Peter Hurley, Matt Hagemann, Brenda Barnum, and Don Copper. The reception runs from 610 p.m. at the gallery, located at 1932 S. Halsted #100. The show runs through September 18th. For more information, call 312.850.1816, or check out their website. The show is being presented in coordination with the Thomas Masters Gallery.

Gold Coast Art Fair

Hey, art lovers. Don't forget that the 47th Annual Gold Coast Art Fair is taking place this weekend. More than 350 artists from across the country have gathered between Superior, Huron and Erie Streets at LaSalle in the River North neighborhood. Admission to the fair is free, and the River North galleries will be open for the duration of the event. The Gold Coast Art Fair takes place today from Noon-6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Gold Coast Art Fair

Hey, art lovers. Don't forget that the 47th Annual Gold Coast Art Fair is taking place this weekend. More than 350 artists from across the country have gathered between Superior, Huron and Erie Streets at LaSalle in the River North neighborhood. Admission to the fair is free, and the River North galleries will be open for the duration of the event. The Gold Coast Art Fair takes place today from Noon-6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Comics exhibit @ Cultural Center

Raw, Boiled and Cooked: Comics on the Verge is a new exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center that contains artwork inspired by Raw, the highly influential magazine of the 1980s. Many artists are represented in the show; local favorites include Lynda Barry, Ivan Brunetti, Chris Ware, and Daniel Clowes. The free exhibit is on display through October 3; check the Cultural Center Website for visiting hours. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. (312) 744-8032.

Gold Coast Art Fair

Hey, art lovers. Don't forget that the 47th Annual Gold Coast Art Fair is taking place this weekend. More than 350 artists from across the country have gathered between Superior, Huron and Erie Streets at LaSalle in the River North neighborhood. Admission to the fair is free, and the River North galleries will be open for the duration of the event. The Gold Coast Art Fair takes place today from Noon-6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Make your own Bottlecap Centerpiece!

As part of the current exhibit of outsider art at Intuit, the gallery is offering a "Make your own Bottlecap Centerpiece" workshop today at 1:30 PM. The workshop is $20 per person and includes materials. Call for reservations. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

The Monkey Show

Rotofugi celebrates its grand opening tonight with its first show, the Monkey Show, an exhibit of customized "Fling the Monkeys" from AdFunture. The show starts at 7pm at the store, 1953 W. Chicago Ave. Free.

Bob Newhart statue unveiled

Today at 8:00 AM at 430 N. Michigan Avenue, TV Land will unveil a bronze statue of Bob Newhart, whose "Bob Newhart Show" took place in Chicago, and whose character had a psychiatry office in that building. Bob Newhart (who was born in Oak Park, oddly enough) will speak at the ceremony. So you should attend, and then shout out, "Hi, Bob!" And then take a drink. Ha!

Chicago Modern exhibit @ Terra Museum

The Terra Museum of American Art presents its final exhibition, "Chicago Modern, 1893-1945: Pursuit of the New." Be sure to check it out before the museum's doors close at the end of October. The exhibit runs through October 31, and is free and open to the public. Terra Museum of American Art: 664 N. Michigan. (312) 664-3939.

James Kochalka & Craig Thompson @ Chicago Comics

Comic artists James Kochalka (who is also a rockstar of note) and Craig Thompson show up at Chicago Comics tonight on the Chicago stop of the Chunky Monkey 2004 Tour. Whatever that means. You should go; they're good artists and funny-ass people. Ask James Kochalka when his new album is coming out; it's 3 years overdue! The appearance/signing runs from 8:00 to 10:00 tonight. Chicago Comics: 3244 N. Clark. (773) 528-1983.

Magnificent Mile Art Festival

This free art festival will feature more than 200 local and national artists exhibiting their stuff at the Chicago Tribune Pioneer Court located at 435 N. Michigan Avenue. Hours are July 9: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., July 10: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and July 11: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Did I mention that it's free?

Magnificent Mile Art Festival

This free art festival will feature more than 200 local and national artists exhibiting their stuff at the Chicago Tribune Pioneer Court located at 435 N. Michigan Avenue. Hours are July 9: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., July 10: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and July 11: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Did I mention that it's free?

Magnificent Mile Art Festival

This free art festival will feature more than 200 local and national artists exhibiting their stuff at the Chicago Tribune Pioneer Court located at 435 N. Michigan Avenue. Hours are July 9: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., July 10: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and July 11: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Did I mention that it's free?

Suicide Girls Book Release @ Quimby's

The new SuicideGirls coffee table book -- featuring 200 photos of the women of suicidegirls.com -- is out now, and Missy Suicide, founder of the site, and eight of the SuicideGirls will be at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., tonight at 7pm to sign copies of the book and possibly perform a short set of their punk rock-inspired burlesque act. Free, so get there early.

Art Institute's "Long Day"

Visiting hours at the Art Institute change today. The museum's "long day," or the weekday on which the museum will be open in evening hours, moves from Tuesdays to Thursdays as of today. The museum will be open Thursdays from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM. The change accompanies an increase in the museum ticket price: from $10 to $12 for adults, $6 to $7 for children, seniors and students. The museum's free admission day will remain on Tuesday. Art Institute of Chicago: 111 S. Michigan. (312) 443-3600.

Paint-By-Numbers discussion

Ever wonder who invented Paint-By-Numbers sets? They were co-created in 1949 by Oak Park resident Dan Robbins and a business partner. Tonight, Mr. Robbins gives a talk about his most famous creation at Intuit: the Center for Outsider and Intuitive Art as part of their current show, "Outside the Lines: Ordinary Pastimes, Extraordinary Art." Copies of Robbins' autobiography, "Whatever Happened to Paint-By-Numbers?", will also be available for purchase. The talk starts at 6:30 PM, and is free and open to the public. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Lazy FM versus "The Warriors"

DJs Lazy FM (Josh Werner and Hiroki) create a live-mixed soundtrack to the cult classic The Warriors at 7pm at the Chicago Cultural Center, 75 E. Washigton Ave. It's free! Here's the press release:

"Lazy FM vs. The Warriors is presented as part of the ohm performance series that incorporates new media in the arenas of theater, music and visual art. The event is held in conjunction with HairStories, a thematic exhibition exploring the imagery, cultural significance and aesthetics of black hair, on view through July 3 at the Cultural Center.

"Afros play into the costumes of this 1979 borderline-camp film that explores race relations through urban street gangs. Directed by Walter Hill, the action begins when representatives from all of New York City's street gangs attempt to unite into one group. When the resultant shooting is wrongly blamed on a gang called the Warriors, they face the violent revenge of the rival gangs in enemy territory on their journey back to their respective turf. The Warriors will be shown in DVD projection (94 mins.).

"Josh Werner of Antennae International and Gramaphone Records and Hiroki of Milk Cru team up as Lazy FM and spin live music to The Warriors. As Lazy FM, their soundtrack to The Warriors has been featured at the electronic music nights on Mondays at Danny's. They will also prepare soundtracks for The Breakfast Club and Caddyshack for viewings this summer at Danny's."

Make your own Popsicle Stick Creation!

As part of the current exhibit of outsider art at Intuit, the gallery is offering a "Make your own Popsicle Stick Creation" workshop today at 1:30 PM. There will be one other workshop in the coming weeks: "Make your own Bottlecap Centerpiece" on July 31. Each workshop is $20 per person and includes materials. Call for reservations. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Beverly Arts Fair

The Beverly Arts Fair is also taking place this weekend at the Beverly Arts Center at 111th & Western. The two-day fine arts festival features fine art booths, food, drink and live music. Head on over June 19 - 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and June 20 - 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Artists of the Wall Festival

The 11th annual Artists of the Wall Festival also takes place this weekend. More than 100 local artist will collaborate on a 600-foot long mural along Chicago's lakefront at Loyola Park Beach. If you want to participate, pick up your entry form at the Loyola Park Fieldhouse at 1230 W. Greenleaf Avenue. The cost to enter is $20. Or, just come and watch and enjoy the entertainment including live music. The festival takes place June 19 and 20. The mural must be completed by 2 p.m. on June 20 with an awards ceremony at 5 p.m.

Make your own Sock Monkey!

As part of the current exhibit of outsider art at Intuit, the gallery is offering a "Make your own Sock Monkey" workshop today at 1:30 PM. There will be two other workshops in the coming weeks: "Make your own Popsicle Stick Creation" on June 26, and "Make your own Bottlecap Centerpiece" on July 31. Each workshop is $20 per person and includes materials. Call for reservations. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Beverly Arts Fair

The Beverly Arts Fair is also taking place this weekend at the Beverly Arts Center at 111th & Western. The two-day fine arts festival features fine art booths, food, drink and live music. Head on over June 19 - 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and June 20 - 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Seurat exhibit @ Art Institute

The latest Art Institute special exhibition, Seurat and the Making of La Grande Jatte, opens today. The main feature of the collection of the 130-piece display will be a computer-reconstructed version of Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte," with the colors adjusted to appear as it would have when the painting was first unveiled in 1886. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Art Institute. Check the Website for hours of the exhibit. The Art Institute of Chicago: 111 S. Michigan. (312) 443-3600.

My Dog Ate My Painting

4Art Gallerypresents "My Dog Ate My Painting," an exhibition of artwork created by students from Steinmetz Academic Centre, a local Chicago high school located on the west side of the city. The artists' opening reception is from 4pm-10pm. For more information, please contact Jerod Schmidt or Robin Rios at 312/850-1816.

Outsider art show @ Intuit

Outside the Lines: Ordinary Pastimes, Extraordinary Art is a new exhibit of outsider art that premieres tonight at Intuit, the gallery for intuitive and outsider art. The exhibit will contain various pieces of hand-made artwork: sock monkeys, Christmas ornaments, junk sculptures, Christmas ornaments, needlepoint, macrame, etc. The reception for the show runs tonight from 5:00 to 8:00. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

57th Street Art Fair

The 57th Street Art Fair is celebrating its 57th year this weekend in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. More than 300 artists from across the country will be on hand. The fair will be open Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. And, unlike some of those other Chicago art fairs, admission to the 57th Street fair is free! Check out the official website for more information.

57th Street Art Fair

The 57th Street Art Fair is celebrating its 57th year this weekend in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. More than 300 artists from across the country will be on hand. The fair will be open Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. And, unlike some of those other Chicago art fairs, admission to the 57th Street fair is free! Check out the official website for more information.

First Fridays @ MCA

First Fridays @ the Museum of Contemporary Art from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

An opening-night reception for this month's featured 12X12: New Artists/New Work artist CarianaCarianne and live blues by Katherine Davis. Tickets include museum admission, Wolfgang Puck appetizers and a cash bar.

Behind the Scenes @ The Field

The Field Museums presents three nights of Behind the Scenes, a look at the activity that goes into the exhibits and research that the museum does. Previously a members-only event, the Field Museum is now allowing the general public to attend. Behind the Scenes happens June 2, 3 and 4, from 5:00 to 10:00 PM. Pre-registration is required. Field Museum: 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. (312) 922-9410.

Columbia Photography MFA Exhibit

Columbia University's photography MFA candidates, including Brian Ulrich present their thesis show at the Glass Curtain Gallery, 1104 S. Wabash, today. The opening reception is at 11am-1pm and 5-7pm. More info here.

Manifest Festival @ Columbia

As the latest class of Columbia students prepares to graduate, the college will be promoting their work during today's all-day Manifest festival. There'll essentially be four festivals running in tandem -- art, music, performance and readings -- all spread out along the South Loop Arts Corridor, with free trolleys running between the five major locations. Among the myriad styles of art on display: photography, puppetry, pop, painting, product design, poetry, papermaking ... and dozens of others. All events are free and open to the public.

Public Square's Cafe Society at MCA

Get together with Public Square's Cafe Society participants from all over the Chicagoland area for a free tour of Lee Bontecou's exhibit, "A Retrospective," refreshments, and discussion tonight from 5:308 p.m. at the MCA, located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Please RSVP to Public Square by either calling (312) 993.0682 or sending an email to events@thepublicsquare.org. Everyone is welcome at this event co-sponsored by TEN by TEN magazine.

Gross Park sculpture invitational

Today's the opening reception for the annual Gross Park Sculpture Invitational, which prsents sculptures from a couple dozen artists on a specific theme. This year's theme: "Rejectamenta." Local artists found or bartered for art supplies to create their works. Along with the sculpture, there will be a sale of limited edition art & poetry books happening, the sale of which benefits the Gross Park Neighbors Foundation. The reception begins at 3:00, and the show runs through July 18. Gross Park: 1700 W. Henderson, one block south of the Lincoln, Roscoe & Paulina intersection. For more information, contact the Gross Park Neighbors Foundation: 773/248-1762.

The Stray Show

The Stray Show happens this weekend. Now in it's third year, it brings a diverse and vast collection of galleries, artists and other creatives together to foster progression of the arts. Quite a veritiable group of Chicago's finest representing. Be sure to do so as well. Opening night celebrations happen this evening with the Stray Show proper from the 7th - 9th. Check the site for details.

Fuck art, let's fuck

Celebrate Art Chicago week with the Modernist Society Second Sundays at The Darkroom: Fuck art, let's fuck. Sunday May 9, The Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago, 21+, 8pm-2am, no cover.

The Stray Show

The Stray Show happens this weekend. Now in it's third year, it brings a diverse and vast collection of galleries, artists and other creatives together to foster progression of the arts. Quite a veritiable group of Chicago's finest representing. Be sure to do so as well. Opening night celebrations happen this evening with the Stray Show proper from the 7th - 9th. Check the site for details.

First Fridays @ MCA

At First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.

First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors doeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 610 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

Opening @ Defiance Gallery

Defiance Gallery is presenting the work of two local artists Chris Silva and Michael Genovese. It's going to be a whole bunch of good. The opening reception is from 6-9. The show runs until May 29.

The Stray Show

The Stray Show happens this weekend. Now in it's third year, it brings a diverse and vast collection of galleries, artists and other creatives together to foster progression of the arts. Quite a veritiable group of Chicago's finest representing. Be sure to do so as well. Opening night celebrations happen this evening with the Stray Show proper from the 7th - 9th. Check the site for details.

Stray Show Opening Night

The Stray Show happens this weekend. Now in it's third year, it brings a diverse and vast collection of galleries, artists and other creatives together to foster progression of the arts. Quite a veritiable group of Chicago's finest representing. Be sure to do so as well. Opening night celebrations happen this evening with the Stray Show proper from the 7th - 9th. Check the site for details.

Frank Sadorus Photography at Thompson Center

"A Family Farm Album: The Photographs of Frank Sadorus" is a show about a self-taught photographer who captured images of his farm, family, and surroundings on glass-plate negatives, during the early 20th Century (approximately 1904-1912). His photography stopped with the sale of the farm and his subsequent commitment to an asylum in 1917. The opening reception is from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the J.R. Thompson Center (state of Illinois building), located at 100 W. Randolph, 2nd Floor. The show will be up all summer, so if you can't make it today, come by any weekday between 9am and 5pm. Call (312) 814-5320 with questions or check out the Illinois State Museum" site.

Art for Charity Days

The Cornelia Arts Building usually houses dozens of artists, toiling away at their crafts, but during this two-day event, artists and artisans will donate a percentage of their sales to charities of their choice. This free reception runs Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18, from 12 noon to 4 pm. Charities to be supported include the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Lambda Legal, MoveOn.org, NAMES Project Chicago and many more. The Cornelia Arts Building at 1800 West Cornelia, is a multi-arts complex housing studios of over 40 artists and artisans making a variety of crafts and fine art. For more information about the event contact Jason Messinger at JasonMessingerArt@hotmail.com or call (773)255-0993.

Paper Politics: poster exhibit

As part of the currently running Version>04 festival, the art exhibit "Paper Politics: A Show of Socially Engaged Printmaking" opens tonight at the offices of In These Times. More than 50 artists contributed posters to the show, and much of the art will be on sale for $25 or less. The opening reception runs from 7:00 to 11:00 tonight, and is free and open to the public. In These Times: 2040 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor. (773) 342-8251.

Art for Charity Days

The Cornelia Arts Building usually houses dozens of artists, toiling away at their crafts, but during this two-day event, artists and artisans will donate a percentage of their sales to charities of their choice. This free reception runs Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18, from 12 noon to 4 pm. Charities to be supported include the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Lambda Legal, MoveOn.org, NAMES Project Chicago and many more. The Cornelia Arts Building at 1800 West Cornelia, is a multi-arts complex housing studios of over 40 artists and artisans making a variety of crafts and fine art. For more information about the event contact Jason Messinger at JasonMessingerArt@hotmail.com or call (773)255-0993.

American Artists in Paris @ Terra Museum

The Terra Museum of American Art is closing at the end of October, and the second-to-last exhibit opens today. "A Transatlantic Avant-Garde: American Artists in Paris, 1918-1939" is a focus on three aspects of the Parisian avant-garde: Cubism, Geometric Abstraction, and Surrealism. The exhibit runs through June 27, and is free and open to the public. Terra Museum of American art: 664 N. Michigan. (312) 664-3939.

Chicago Artists Space & Housing Expo

Are you a Chicago artist in need of a home or other physical space? Then you might be interested in the the Chicago Artists Space and Housing Expo taking place today at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) from 9am to 3pm. You'll get free access to information on how to buy a home, make a studio safe, get health insurance, and many other city programs provided by bankers, housing experts, developers, not-for-profit agencies and the like. There will be many workshops. To register or get more info, call (312) 747-8529.

Poetry Center of Chicago Broadside Gallery Exhibition

The Judy A. Saslow Gallery and The Poetry Center of Chicago have teamed up to celebrate National Poetry Month (that's April, for those of you who don't know) by presenting an exhibition of limited edition art prints (broadsides) that feature original poetry and visual art by outsider and established artists. Broadsides are available for purchase at the gallery. The exhibit runs March 19-April 23. The opening reception is April 3, from 4-7 p.m. at the gallery.

Sulzen Exhibition

For the past three years, art teacher and artist Julie Sulzen has turned her home into an elegant gallery space for one night only. This Saturday April 3, she will exhibit works by over 20 artists in a variety of mediums. Visit the Sulzen Fine Art Studio located at 2720 Saint Georges Court this Saturday from 5 - 9 p.m. The Studio is located one block east of California and Milwaukee.

First Fridays @ the MCA

At at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.

First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors doeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 610 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.

Inspired Art Auction

The
Inspiration Corporation provides social services, housing, and employment training in Uptown and Woodlawn. One of its biggest sources of funding is the annual Inspired Art Auction. This years event, from 6-10 p.m. in the Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center, will feature more than 100 pieces of jury-selected artwork donated by leading Chicago-area artists. A silent auction will run throughout the evening as well as a live auction beginning at 8:00 p.m, and live music, cocktails and hors doeuvres will be served. Tickets are $75 in advance and $90 at the door with all proceeds benefiting Inspiration Corporation.

T.C. ORourke Photo Exhibit

Documentary photographs by T.C. O'Rourke of the 2003 and 2004 seasons of the Tour Da Chicago Alleycat Series, a city-wide, messenger style bicycle race. Show opens tonight at the Handlebar, 2311 W. North Ave., with a reception at 10pm, and runs through the end of April. For more info, call 773/384-9546 or click here.

Laura Letinsky Photo Exhibit

at the University of Chicago presents Laura Letinsky: Hardly More Than Ever Photographs, 1997-2004. The exhibition captures "domestic arrangements" from couples to formal still-lifes of abandoned tables with half-finished meals. The show opens Wednesday March 24th and continues through April 19, 2004. For more information, call 702-8670 or email info@renaissancesociety.org.

Chicago, Creativity, and Playboy

The
Hyde Park Art Center presents "I Read it for the Art: Chicago, Creativity and Playboy." The show, which runs through April 24, brings together 20 Chicago artists from the Playboy collection. An opening reception begins at 4 p.m. at the center, 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. For more information, call 324-5520.

A Great Midwestern @ Heaven

"A Great Midwestern" opens at Heaven Gallery, featuring work by Jim Finn, Craig Prehn, Peter Thompson, Tema Stauffer and Deborah Stratman. The show will be running through March 27th. The opening reception will be held from 8-11pm.

2nd Fridays in Pilsen

Chicago's oldest artist neighborhood, the Chicago Arts District (aka Pilsen), opens the doors to its alternative galleries and working studios every second Friday of every month in 2004. Friday March 12th kicks off a busy month for the district. Three galleries are holding opening receptions tonight from 6-10, Unit B, Chicago Artists Collective and 4Art Inc. Other galleries in the neighborhood will be keeping their doors open late to the public.

Forbidden City exhibition @ Field Museum

At the Field Museum today, they're opening up a new exhibit: Splendors of China's Forbidden City, which contains nearly 400 artifacts from 18th century China. On loan from the Palace Museum in Beijing, the exhibit will be at the museum through September of this year. Field Museum: 1400 S Lake Shore Drive. (312) 922-9410.

Crowning Glory

Are you fascinated with hats and other headgear? Then wear your favorite hat to the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.) tonight at 6pm for free admission to a one-of-a-kind fashion event to celebrate headcoverings across time and cultures. As well as traditional hats representing cultures as varied as a Korean wedding headpiece, a horned crown from Ghana, and Arabic veils you'll also get to see modern creations from artists like Nick Cave, Veronica Chin, Nina Joy Lichtenstein, Jo Jo Baby, and Ann Repp.

Uses of Art in Renaissance Italy

A new exhibit at the David and Alfred Smart Museum of Art, titled "The Uses of Art in Renaissance Italy", opens tonight at 5:30pm. The exhibition, which runs through August 22, considers the daily life of various Renaissance objects within their historical context, calling attention "to the rich interplay of form and function in early modern material culture." The Smart Museum is located on the University of Chicago campus at 5550 S. Greenwood Avenue. Admission to the museum is free. Visit the museum website for more information.

Premier Show @ Chicago Photography Center

The newly opened Chicago Photography Center, 3301 N. Lincoln, is celebrating with a premier exhibit. "Foundations" features the photographers and individuals who are part of the Center's Founders' Circle. The gallery opening, held from noon to 4pm. Free. More information here.

Shift at Heaven

Shift, a collaborative exhibition at the Heaven Gallery featuring work by Jeffrey Sfire, Serena Stucke, and Sara Zimmer among others, has its opening reception. SubK and M50 will DJ the event, which goes from 7-11pm. 1542 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor.

Rembrandt's Journey @ AIC

Rembrandts Journey: Painter, Draftsman, Etcher opens today at the Art Institute of Chicago. The exhibition, which runs through May 9, features over 200 works by famed 17th century artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Tickets are $12 from Monday-Thursday and $15 Friday-Sunday, but City of Chicago residents receive a $3 discount off tickets purchased in-person at the museum. See the museum website for more information.

My Secret Valentine 2004

Sneek a peek at some lovely art created by local artists for Verge's "My Secret Valentine Show". Stop by 1431 W Chicago avenue between 7-10 to have a look at the creations. An afterparty will follow at Sonotheque, located at 1444 W Chicago. There's no cover if you get there early (before 11:30)!

Lee Bontecou Opening @ MCA

Lee Bontecou sculpture and drawing retrospective opens tonight at the MCA. Bontecou was widely recognized in the early 60's for her welded steel sculptures, which incorporated various fabrics and found objects. She has not been the subject of a major exhibition since 1972. Admission is free for members and $15 for non-members. Free appetizers and a cash bar will be provided. The reception will be from 6-9. The show will be running through May 30.

Annual Art Exhibition

Tonight at Fizz (3220 N. Lincoln) artists will be selling their creations from 6 pm to 11 pm. If you'd like to grab a martini and some cool art, drop by with some cash.

Weisman Scholars Exhibit @ Columbia College

The work of more than 60 Columbia students goes on display today as part of this year's Weisman Scholars Exhibit, a showcase for recipients of grants from the Albert P. Weisman Memorial Fund. The free exhibit runs through March 13th at Columbia's Hokin Gallery, 623 S. Wabash. Gallery hours: 10-5 weekdays and 11-3 Saturday. More info: (312) 344-7696.

Crafty Collective

The craft just keeps on coming. This time, it's the Crafty Collective who are putting together a craft show at 1205 N. Milwaukee Ave (just at the corner of Milwaukee and Division). Doors open today at 11am and close at 6pm. If you're going to be going, be polite and give the organizers an email: rsvp@craftymonkey.com.

Around The Coyote Winter Festival

Didn't stock up on enough art this fall at the usual Around The Coyote? Another art festival by the same people is being held this weekend, Feb 6 and 7th in the Flat Iron Building at North, Damen, and Wells. In addition to the usual visual art on display, you'll also have a chance to see theater, hear poetry readings, and see some short films. Details and performance schedule at http://www.aroundthecoyote.org/.

Crafty Collective

The craft just keeps on coming. This time, it's the Crafty Collective who are putting together a craft show at 1205 N. Milwaukee Ave (just at the corner of Milwaukee and Division). Doors open today at 11am and close at 6pm. If you're going to be going, be polite and give the organizers an email: rsvp@craftymonkey.com.

Opening Reception @ Foundation Gallery

"S&M", a show featuring new paintings by Sayre Gomez & Matthew Rodriguez, will be on view from February 6 until March 14 at Foundation Gallery. There is an opening reception tonight from 6-10. The gallery is open Sundays 1-5 and by appointment.

Around The Coyote Winter Festival

Didn't stock up on enough art this fall at the usual Around The Coyote? Another art festival by the same people is being held this weekend, Feb 6 and 7th in the Flat Iron Building at North, Damen, and Wells. In addition to the usual visual art on display, you'll also have a chance to see theater, hear poetry readings, and see some short films. Details and performance schedule at http://www.aroundthecoyote.org/.

Crafty Collective

The craft just keeps on coming. This time, it's the Crafty Collective who are putting together a craft show at 1205 N. Milwaukee Ave (just at the corner of Milwaukee and Division). The reception gets kicked off tonight from 6-10 pm. If you're going to be going, be polite and give the organizers an email: rsvp@craftymonkey.com.

Photocollages -In the Flesh

Phineas X. Jones presents his wonderfully amazing and beautiful Photocollages at Uncommon Ground all through January. Meet him and other photography collage afficionados in the flesh at the official opening this Wednesday, January the 7th where there will be wine! Cheese! and lots of brou-ha-ha and general hipster elitist behaviour. We're kidding about that last one. From 5-8pm at Uncommon Ground in Wrigleyville at 1214 W. Grace (Grace and Clark).

Illegitimate Arts Festival

The Associated Colleges of the Midwest's Chicago Arts Program presents its semi-annual Illegitimate Arts Festival, in which artists from ACM's 14 schools exhibit and/or perform their work. The show is free, and runs from 6pm to midnight at 3340 N. Clark. Call 773/529-4458 ext. 10 for more information.

Alex Ross/Chip Kidd signing

Wilmette-based comics artist Alex Ross and designer/author Chip Kidd sign their new book, Mythology: The DC Comics Art of Alex Ross, at Chicago Comics, 3244 N. Clark, 3-6 pm.

Only if You're Not Invited

Mixed media and photography curated by Matt Kellen, including new work by Alan Froberg, Matt Kellen, Tom L. and Marshall Peheim. Opening reception 6-10 at Open End 2000 W Fulton *310.

The Untitled Project

Opening reception for Matt Siber's The Untitled Project at Peter Miller Gallery . In The Untitled Project, Matt removes all traces of text from photographs he has taken of various urban settings. This same text is then reintroduced by placing it in its correct position on another print hanging to the right of the original, albeit altered, photograph. Reception is from 6-9pm. The Peter Miller Gallery is located at 118 N Peoria.

Jesus Saves

In Jesus Saves, five emerging Chicago artists tackle the iconography and beliefs of the Christian religion through the use of painting, photography, textile, installation, and a small dose of humor here or there. Featuring work by Katie Baker, Michael Coleman, Jeremiah Ketner, Dustin Mertz, and Gregory Shirilla. Showing at Buddy Gallery December 11, 2003 - January 11, 2004. Opening receptions: Thursday, December 11th, 6-10pm and Friday, December 12th, 8-12pm

Robbie Conal @ Quimby's

Robbie Conal, an artist whose amazing posters of political figures have graced many a plywood construction wall, will be making an appearance at Quimby's tonight at 7:00 to discuss and sign his new collection, Artburn. Fans of political cartooning will definitely not want to miss this. Quimby's: 1854 W. North. (773) 342-0910.

Outsider Music Videos

Irwin Chusid, author and DJ who coined the term "outsider music" as a parallel with the outsider art world, will be appearing at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art tonight. He will be screening videos and films starring such outsider musicians as Richard Peterson, Wild Man Fischer, Sid Laverents, Alvin Dahn, Klaus Beyer, Peter Grudzien, Bingo Gazingo, and others. Fans of unusual music will not be disappointed. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.

Robbie Conal @ Barnes & Noble

Robbie Conal, an artist whose amazing posters of political figures have graced many a plywood construction wall, will be making an appearance at Barnes & Noble tonight at 7:30 to discuss and sign his new collection, Artburn. Fans of political cartooning will definitely not want to miss this. (If you're worried about supporting The Man™ by buying at a chain bookstore, go see Conal tomorrow night at Quimby's.) Barnes & Noble: 1441 W. Webster. (773) 871-3610.

Fine Art of Fiber

The Fine Art of Fiber is being held this weekend, Friday Nov. 7 to Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. This free, annual event sponsored by Illinois Quilters Inc., North Suburban NeedleArts Guild and North Shore Weavers Guild features handmade quilts, wall hangings, weavings, clothing, beadwork, fabrics and dolls on display and for sale along with lectures and fashion shows. Hours are 10am-5pm each day.

Fine Art of Fiber

The Fine Art of Fiber is being held this weekend, Friday Nov. 7 to Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. This free, annual event sponsored by Illinois Quilters Inc., North Suburban NeedleArts Guild and North Shore Weavers Guild features handmade quilts, wall hangings, weavings, clothing, beadwork, fabrics and dolls on display and for sale along with lectures and fashion shows. Hours are 10am-5pm each day.

Fine Art of Fiber

The Fine Art of Fiber is being held this weekend, Friday Nov. 7 to Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. This free, annual event sponsored by Illinois Quilters Inc., North Suburban NeedleArts Guild and North Shore Weavers Guild features handmade quilts, wall hangings, weavings, clothing, beadwork, fabrics and dolls on display and for sale along with lectures and fashion shows. Hours are 10am-5pm each day.

Chicago Photography Center open house

The Chicago Photography Center is hosting an open house for the dedication of its new building at 3301 N. Lincoln. Enjoy the live music, free snacks, and pretty pictures from 2-6 pm.

Critical Mass

This year's October Critical Mass falls on Halloween, so it should be even more spectacular than usual. (Past October rides: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001.) Bring your bike and costume to Daley Plaza, Dearborn and Washington, around 5:30 p.m. Afterwards there will be a party at the Handlebar, 2311 W. North.

WPA Mural Tour

As part of the Chicago Neighborhood Tours series, author Heather Becker leads a bus tour of some of the recently rediscovered and restored WPA murals around the city. Stops include the Chicago Conservation Center, Lucy Flower High School, Nettlehorst Elelmentary and Lane Tech. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center at Michigan and Randolph at 10am (check-in is at 9), returning at 3:30pm. Tickets are $50 adults, $45 for seniors and students; includes lunch. Call 312/742-1190 for more information or to order tickets.

AfterHours at the Art Institute

The Art Institute's AfterHours offers a chance to tour the new exhibit, "Manet and the Sea," as well as mingle with other art lovers over drinks, apps and DJ Madrid's fine beats. Ticket price includes admission to the museum and select galleries, tours and appetizers, but it's a cash bar. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave. 5:30-9pm. Tickets are $20-25; call 312/575-8000 for the box office.

Andersonville Arts Smorgasbord

Andersonville has been filling up with galleries and artist studios over recent years. Here's a chance to see what kind of art is being produced in the area, presented at more than 20 venues throughout the neighborhood. It's free, and it runs from 11am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. Check Andersonville.org for the full schedule.

SOFA Expo

The 10th annual SOFA Expo is at Navy Pier Oct. 17-19 -- go see the impressive array of "Sculpture Objects and Functional Art" in this gigantic show -- you will be tired by the end. Admission is $12 or $20 for a three-day pass, open 11am-8pm Friday and Saturday, 12-6pm Sunday.

Original Sewing & Quilt Expo

The Original Sewing & Quilt Expo is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL this weekend, October 16-18. Daily general admission is $10 at the door for access to the exhibit hall. Or, register for any one of the over 100 different classes and workshops being offered. View the full schedule at the website.

Andersonville Arts Smorgasbord

Andersonville has been filling up with galleries and artist studios over recent years. Here's a chance to see what kind of art is being produced in the area, presented at more than 20 venues throughout the neighborhood. It's free, and it runs from 11am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. Check Andersonville.org for the full schedule.

Chicago Printmakers Collaborative

Throughout October, works by the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative will be shown in restaurants and businesses all over Lincoln Square. On October 18 from noon-5pm, visit the CPC's workshop at 4642 N. Western and see a printmaking demonstration before going on a guided tour of the neighborhood and the prints.

SOFA Expo

The 10th annual SOFA Expo is at Navy Pier Oct. 17-19 -- go see the impressive array of "Sculpture Objects and Functional Art" in this gigantic show -- you will be tired by the end. Admission is $12 or $20 for a three-day pass, open 11am-8pm Friday and Saturday, 12-6pm Sunday.

Original Sewing & Quilt Expo

The Original Sewing & Quilt Expo is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL this weekend, October 16-18. Daily general admission is $10 at the door for access to the exhibit hall. Or, register for any one of the over 100 different classes and workshops being offered. View the full schedule at the website.

Chicago Art Open

Tonight is the artists' reception for the 6th annual Chicago Art Open, featuring works by 275 professional and 50 student artists. Meet nearly all 325 artists from 6-9pm in the 3rd Floor Gallery at 847 W. Jackson St. The show itself runs October 12-19. Sponsored by the Chicago Artists' Coalition; more info on their site.

SOFA Expo

The 10th annual SOFA Expo is at Navy Pier Oct. 17-19 -- go see the impressive array of "Sculpture Objects and Functional Art" in this gigantic show -- you will be tired by the end. Admission is $12 or $20 for a three-day pass, open 11am-8pm Friday and Saturday, 12-6pm Sunday.

Original Sewing & Quilt Expo

The Original Sewing & Quilt Expo is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL this weekend, October 16-18. Daily general admission is $10 at the door for access to the exhibit hall. Or, register for any one of the over 100 different classes and workshops being offered. View the full schedule at the website.

Ravenswood Corridor Arts & Industry Walk

Check out all the great galleries and studios -- as well as the manufacturing companies -- along Ravenswood Avenue from Cornelia to Lawrence. Start at the new Lillstreet Art Center (formerly in Lincoln Park on, well, Lill Street), 4401 N. Ravenswood,and work your way up from there, live music and great restaurants along your path. Noon to 6pm, free. Hosted by the Jane Addams Resource Corporation and The Chicago Women's Caucus for Art. More info here, or call 773.728.9769.

Inside Acme Arts

Acme Arts Community the first artist planned and owned community in Chicago, is offering a guided tour of the resident artists' living and work spaces at 1pm on Saturday, and studios will be open from noon till 6pm Saturday and Sunday. 2418 W. Bloomingdale Ave. (1700 N. Western). Call 773/612-6584 for more information.

South Loop Gallery Tour

Head down to the Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., between noon and 5pm to pick up a map for your self-guided tour of the many galleries in the South Loop, "Chicago's newest arts district." Visit galleries between Madison and Roosevelt, Michigan and Dearborn. Make sure you're back at the Fine Arts Building Gallery to catch a lecture by Frank Vodvarka at 2pm.

Art is Not Dying, It's Dreaming

New works of art at the opening reception at Chicago's Sound Gallery by Andrew Gill, Lacey Graves and Matt Granstrom. Friday Oct. 10, 6pm-10pm. The exhbition runs through from Oct 10th - 31st. 1821. W. North Ave.

Dead Show

Each artist in the Dead Show presents their interpretation of their own funeral, casket, service or eulogy. Artists include Eric Medine, Dave Pearson, Tom Waters, Ralph Barton, Dan Layne and E.K. Buckley. Opens tonight 6-10pm at Drive-Thru Studios, 626 W. 18th St., and runs through the end of the month.

Artisans 21: 25th Anniversary

Artisans 21 Gallery, one of the coutry's oldest artist-run co-op galleries, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a gallery opening from 6-9pm, showcasing the works of its 23 members. Free. 5225 S. Harper Ave. (Hyde Park). Call 773/288-7450 for more information.

33rd Annual Artists' Open House

More than 70 artists show their work in over 40 locations around 18th and Halsted during this long-running artists' open house. Pick up a map at CS:33/The Curated Show, 2003 S. Halsted St., and head out to explore artists' studios in the area. Runs Saturday and Sunday 12-7pm. Free. More info here.

Outrageous Open Studio Walk

The Glenwood Avenue arts district, a loose collection of artist studios, galleries and shops along Glenwood on both sides of the Red Line tracks in Rogers Park, is holding a studio walk and street fair from noon to 6pm. Live music, kids activities and a chili cook-off suppliment the peak into artist studos. Jump off at the Morse stop and head north. For more info, call 847/982-3211.

33rd Annual Artists' Open House

More than 70 artists show their work in over 40 locations around 18th and Halsted during this long-running artists' open house. Pick up a map at CS:33/The Curated Show, 2003 S. Halsted St., and head out to explore artists' studios in the area. Runs Saturday and Sunday 12-7pm. Free. More info here.

33rd Annual Artists' Open House

More than 70 artists show their work in over 40 locations during this long-running artists' open house. The opening night party is Friday October 3, 6-11pm at CS:33/The Curated Show, 2003 S. Halsted Street. The show at CS:33 features both established and emerging artists, including Marcos Raya, Ned Broderick, Deva Suckerman, Kelly Brannon and Gary Borremans. Pick up a map there and head out to explore artists' studios in the area. The Open House continues Saturday and Sunday 12-7pm. More info here.

Jay Ryan Gallery Opening

"Seatbelt for My Head," an exhibition of silkscreen collage monoprints by Jay Ryan of The Bird Machine, opens tonight at Foundation Gallery, 700 N. Carpenter. A free reception is from 6-10pm, featuring snacks and coffee from Jinx Cafe.

American Craft Exposition

The 19th annual American Craft Exposition is being held August 22-24, 2003, at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion in Evanston, Illinois on Northwestern University's campus. Over 150 artists are exhibiting this year, selected from a pool of more than 1000 applicants. Handcrafted works in media such as ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, mixed media, paper and wood will be displayed. The exposition is open to the public. Tickets are $10 for unlimited entry throughout the three days of the show. The hours are Friday, August 22, 10am-9pm; Saturday, August 23, 10am-6pm; and Sunday, August 24, 11am-5pm. Check out the website for more information.

American Craft Exposition

The 19th annual American Craft Exposition is being held August 22-24, 2003, at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion in Evanston, Illinois on Northwestern University's campus. Over 150 artists are exhibiting this year, selected from a pool of more than 1000 applicants. Handcrafted works in media such as ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, mixed media, paper and wood will be displayed. The exposition is open to the public. Tickets are $10 for unlimited entry throughout the three days of the show. The hours are Friday, August 22, 10am-9pm; Saturday, August 23, 10am-6pm; and Sunday, August 24, 11am-5pm. Check out the website for more information.

American Craft Exposition

The 19th annual American Craft Exposition is being held August 22-24, 2003, at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion in Evanston, Illinois on Northwestern University's campus. Over 150 artists are exhibiting this year, selected from a pool of more than 1000 applicants. Handcrafted works in media such as ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, mixed media, paper and wood will be displayed. The exposition is open to the public. Tickets are $10 for unlimited entry throughout the three days of the show. The hours are Friday, August 22, 10am-9pm; Saturday, August 23, 10am-6pm; and Sunday, August 24, 11am-5pm. Check out the website for more information.

Graves/Wodnick Art Sale

Lacey Graves and Beth Wodnick's Art Sale and Open House!
1468 W. Berwyn Ave. in Andersonville, 1:00-5:00pm. Free.
Watercolors and ink drawings by Lacey Graves, photography by Beth Wodnick.
Various sizes, prices ranging from $10-$200.

More info at lay-c.com/art/

"Supernatural" Grass Photograph

"Supernatural" is a grass photograph (as in, it takes advantage of the photosynthetic properties of grass to create a photograph -- not a photo of grass, a photo made of grass) by British artists Heather Ackroyd and Dan Harvey, on display July 10 till September 28 in the Yates Gallery at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington (at Michigan). It's pretty darn cool. Ackroyd and Harvey will also create a grass photograph in an empty storefront at 151 N. State St., where we'll be able to watch the process from start to finished image.

Artist of the Wall

For the past 10 years, artists in Roger's Park have been gathering at the lake front and painting the breakwall. There are prizes ($300 for the first place in the adult category), there will be food booths, merchant booths, and many musicians have agreed to donate their time to keep people entertained. The painting will begin at noon on the 14th and will end at 2pm on the 15th. The painting will stay in place until a week or so before next year's contest. There is an entry fee of $20, and artists must provide their own supplies. Entry blanks are available online, at the Loyola Park Fieldhouse, or at the Heartland Cafe. Call 773-250-FEST for more info.

Artist of the Wall

For the past 10 years, artists in Roger's Park have been gathering at the lake front and painting the breakwall. There are prizes ($300 for the first place in the adult category), there will be food booths, merchant booths, and many musicians have agreed to donate their time to keep people entertained. The painting will begin at noon on the 14th and will end at 2pm on the 15th. The painting will stay in place until a week or so before next year's contest. There is an entry fee of $20, and artists must provide their own supplies. Entry blanks are available online, at the Loyola Park Fieldhouse, or at the Heartland Cafe. Call 773-250-FEST for more info.

Wesley Willis art exhibit

Still can't get anough of Wesley Willis, the 350-pound schizophrenic whose insane musical rantings were all the rage in about 1995? There's going to be a show of his drawings at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee, from June 13 to August 30. Opening reception is on the 13th, from 5 to 8PM, with a Wesley Willis performance at 7:30. Rock over London, rock on Chicago!
 

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