photo: Courtesy of Jennifer Greenburg.
No lounging by the pool side, napping in hammocks, or days off for Chicago gallery owners this week. With more than 35 exhibits opening as part of VISION 11, an annual event hosted by the Chicago Art Dealers Association, and a host of other galleries debuting new work, this is summer's hottest week for art.
"Vision 11: Inside Chicago Galleries"
Opening receptions at participating galleries: Friday, July 14, 5-9 p.m.
through July 29
Second to the city's annual art fairs, VISION is one of the biggest art events in Chicago. In its 11th year, the Chicago Art Dealers Association sponsors two weeks of programs devoted to contemporary art galleries. From panel discussions on how build a collection to gallery tours to puppet performances, the list of things to do runs long. We think the most exciting is Friday's opening night/kick-off party, when 25 River North and 10 West Loop galleries synchronize openings. Hop on a free shuttle provided by CADA to go between 'hoods, where wine will be flowing at each gallery. Two exhibits not to be missed: "Under the Influence: Group Show of Photographic Homages" at Catherine Edelman Gallery and "Art of the Sensual" at Aldo Castillo Gallery.
"Are You Ready?" at artLedge
Opening reception: July 15, 6-11 p.m.
Adhering to the "save the best for last" adage, artLedge closes shop this month with a powerful show. One of Chicago's most accomplished installation artists, Jo Hormuth, has created the final site-specific work to sit on the "ledge." Hormuth's playful installations, which were oft featured at Tough Gallery and have appeared in Donald Young Gallery, are fresh takes every time. While we don't want to give any surprises away, you can be sure that "Are You Ready?" is a Fluxus-inspired, conceptual installation that memorializes the moving on of artLedge and then zooms out to consider the larger sociopolitical and cultural implications of moving, domesticity, maturation and the concept of security in a variety of inventive ways. Don't consider this a farewell to art, though, as co-directors Caleb Lyons and Brandon Alvendia plan to continue producing art projects in spaces around town.
"Recalling Americana: Photography by Jennifer Greenburg" at Hyde Park Art Center
Opening reception on Sunday, July 16, 6 p.m.
Even if you don't have a pompadour or obsession with all things Elvis, this photography show promises to be a rockin' good time. Jennifer Greenburg shares 40 examples of her six-year-long documentation of the Rockabilly community. You'll feel voyeuristic as you walk through the exhibit, as Greenburg captures men, women and children from within their homes, which appear not just retro, but frozen in the 1950s. This fascination with a bygone era is fascinating in and of itself, as it points to a level of integrity and innocence missing from America today. Rev up your classic car and head down to Hyde Park for Sunday's opening reception. Mark your calendar for July 27 as well, when there will be an Artist's Talk at 6 p.m.
"101 Talismans for a Happy Death" at Aron Packer Gallery
Opening reception Friday, July 14, 6-9 p.m.
In the five years before he died of AIDS, artist Joseph Conlon created a series of photographs and videos dealing with the possibility of a happy death. Ranging from heart-wrenching to campy, the series demonstrates the emotional roller coaster ride of his dying and allows us to peek into an incredibly lonely experience. An abstract soundscape by Sally Station accompanies the exhibit. Though the topic extends beyond the art world and into the universal terrain of death and dying, the show still speaks to beauty as the photos and videos are saturated in alluring colors. It's strange how images of death, suicide and violently dangerous sexual situations can be so aesthetically delightful. The exhibit was scheduled in conjunction with the Gay Games, which kick off this Saturday with an opening ceremony at Soldier Field.
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