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Chicago’s art scene is not just defined by its major exhibits and institutions, but also by its thriving network of independent art galleries. These smaller, often artist-run spaces play a crucial role in shaping the city’s creative landscape, and offer platforms for emerging and established artists to showcase their work.
Unlike the large museums, independent galleries tend to provide more of an intimate and less formal environment, where visitors can engage with art in a more direct way. Here, we will explore eight of the best independent art galleries that can be found in Chicago.
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Founded by Scott Speh in 2002, Western Exhibitions located in Ukrainian Village has established itself as a key player in Chicago’s independent art scene. The gallery is known for showcasing diverse groups of artists who explore a wide range of themes and mediums, from painting and sculpture to performance and digital art. The gallery is particularly keen on supporting artists working in conceptual and avant-garde practices.
Zolla/Lieberman Gallery has been a fixture in the Chicago arts scene since 1976, making it one of the longest-running independent galleries in the city. Located in River North, the gallery is popular for its diverse programming, which includes abstract paintings to large-scale installations. Over the years, Zolla/Lieberman has earned a reputation for curating exhibitions that are both thought provoking and visually engaging.
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The Mission is a gallery that focuses on promoting artists from the Americas, particularly those from Latin America and the United States. Since its founding back in 2010, The Mission has been focused on displaying innovative contemporary art that examines themes related to cultural, social, and political issues.
The exhibitions at this gallery tend to challenge conventional narratives and offer new perspectives on identity and belonging. The Mission’s concentration on diversity and inclusion is strongly reflected in its roster of artists, many of whom belong to cultures that are otherwise underrepresented in the broader art world.
Corbett vs. Dempsey is a gallery that aims to showcase artists who push the boundaries of their respective mediums, and has become a prime location for those interested in the intersection of visual art and other creative disciplines. Located in the West Loop , the gallery was founded by John Corbett and Jim Dempsey in 2004. The gallery is well-known for its eclectic programming, which includes paintings, sculptures, film, and experimental music.
Document is a contemporary art gallery in West Town that specializes in photography, video, and new media. Since it opened its doors in 2012, Document has been one of the leading galleries for artists who work with digital and lens-based media. The exhibits at Document often explore the relationship between technology and art, and allow visitors to rethink the meaning of art in the digital age.
One of Chicago’s most respected independent art galleries is Rhona Hoffman Gallery, also located in West Town. Since 1976, the gallery has established itself as a platform for artists that create work based on social and political issues.
Many of the artists who have been featured at Rhona Hoffman Gallery have gone on to achieve international acclaim. The gallery is celebrated for its strong conceptual art themes, with exhibitions that often explore topics like identity, gender, and power dynamics.
Vertical Gallery first opened in Ukrainian Village back in 2013, and ever since then has made a name for itself as a premier destination for urban and street art in Chicago. The exhibits here often feature works that merge fine art and street culture, and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary art.
Heaven Gallery is a non-profit gallery that has been a staple of Chicago’s independent art scene since 1997. Situated in Wicker Park, the gallery primarily supports emerging artists and provides a platform for experimental and interdisciplinary works.
Heaven Gallery tends to gravitate towards artists whose subject matter includes themes pertaining to community, identity, and social justice. In addition to its exhibits, Heaven Gallery also hosts various events, including live music performances, film screenings, and artist talks.
Art galleries in Chicago make up an essential part of the city’s cultural identity, and offer necessary spaces where creativity and experimentation can flourish. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or just a casual observer, exploring these galleries, and the dozens of others found throughout the city is a great way to support artists and engage with art in an accessible setting.
