From popular Rembrandt masterpieces to recent works by lesser-known artists, the Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the finest art collections in the world. Spanning centuries of human creativity, exhibits include a distinguished collection of prints and drawings, an internationally acclaimed collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, sculptures, photographs, Asian, African, and American arts, architectural drawings, textiles, and more. Many pieces are on loan from the famed Terra Foundation for American Art. Educational programs and guided museum tours are available. Artbooks, reproductions, postcards, and other items are available in the museum shop.
It’s the age of modern art, and if you love and appreciate contemporary collections of art, then you cannot afford to miss the Museum of Contemporary Art while in downtown Chicago. This museum, which may seem small but boasts stylish architecture and cutting-edge interior design, will astound you with its incredible collection. This innovative gallery next to Lake Michigan features avant-garde works produced by well-known worldwide painters, sculptors, and video artists between 1945 and the present. Works by Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, Franz Kline, and other artists are included in the permanent collection. The museum's cutting-edge 296-seat theater hosts performances, talks, seminars, and lessons. There are guided tours available, and you may check for free visit days here on their website before scheduling a tour.
Loyola University Museum of Arts is a recent addition to the art circuit of Chicago. Started in 2005, its notable collection includes Martin D'Arcy Collection that has more than 300 objects. Check website for more details.
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The Joel Oppenheimer Gallery specializes in original antique natural history art, with particular emphasis on the works of John James Audubon. Established in 1969, the gallery has recently expanded to a second location in historic Charleston, South Carolina. The inventory includes significant holdings of the great artists from the golden age of natural history art of the 17th through 19th centuries, such as Pierre-Joseph Redouté, John Gould, and Bassilius Besler. In addition to being an incredible art resource, the gallery also provides custom archival framing, nationally recognized paper conservation, and restoration services for museums, dealers, and private collectors around the country.
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum is housed in the historic 1883 Samuel M. Nickerson Mansion, one of the finest buildings constructed during Chicago's Gilded Age, which makes for a stunning attraction on its own. Once inside, you will get a peek at what life was like for Chicago's wealthy in the late 19th-century. The opulent art nouveau furnishings and decor on display are quite a sight, and make for an interesting trip back in time for history buffs.
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At the National Museum of Mexican Art, explore the vibrant and varied aspects of Mexican heritage through a range of exhibitions. Pre-Cuauhtémoc antiquities, modern painting and sculpture, photography, prints and drawings, and popular art are the main themes of the permanent collection. Incredible compositions by renowned and up-and-coming musicians, writers, and artists highlight Latin America and its strong sense of community. The museum's yearly "Day of the Dead" show, which takes place in October, is well-known and brings a sizable throng to the city.
