Chicago is home to many art & design museums that display the city’s rich cultural heritage. Michael Ferro loves to visit these museums and experience the history of the city.
Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute is arguably the most well known Chicago cultural institution. It hosts an extensive and diverse collection of pieces. Michael finds himself drawn to the timeless classics, as well as contemporary works found within the galleries. Some of his favorites include:
- American Gothic by Grant Wood
- Nighthawks by Edward Hopper
- The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso
- The Basket of Apples by Paul Cezanne
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
For those with their thumb on the pulse of contemporary art, The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is the place to go. Michael finds himself a frequent visitor of their constant rotation of new exhibitions. The work on display inspires him with new perspectives and techniques to try in his own work. This museum is truly a place that pushes the boundaries and challenges convention by bringing together local and international artists.
The MCA has several upcoming exhibitions that Michael is excited to visit:
- Rebecca Morris: 2001-2022 (September 30 2023-April 7 2024)
- Faith Ringgold: American People (November 18 2023-February 25 2024)
- Descending the Staircase (December 16 2023-August 18 2024)
- Chicago Works: Maryam Taghavi (December 20 2023-July 14 2024)
Smart Museum of Art
Nestled in the University Chicago campus, this museum is one of the best free destinations for art enthusiasts. Michael loves their commitment to ensuring that fine art is accessible to all. The museum has an intimate setting where the public can engage in thought provoking discussion about the works on display.
One of his favorite parts of the museum is their Sculpture Garden. The garden features works by Scott Burton, Jene Heighstein, Richard Hunt, Arnaldo Pomodoro, and Richard Serra.
Michael is excited to visit the Smart Museum’s exhibitions:
- Calling on the Past: Selections from the Collection (March 21 2023-February 4 2024)
- Haegue Yang: Quasi-Legit (September 22 2022-August 2024)
