The Art Institute of Chicago is widely considered to be the main art museum in Chicago. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago and just a short walk from Millennium Park, the museum has a world-renowned collection of over 300,000 works of art from all over the world. From European Old Masters to modern and contemporary pieces, the museum offers something for everyone.
The Art Institute of Chicago dates back to 1879 when it was founded as both an art school and a museum. Since then, it has become one of the most significant art museums in North America, with an exceptional collection that includes Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, ancient Greek pottery, sculptures from Africa and Asia, photography, prints and drawings. The museum also houses an impressive collection of American art including works by Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keeffe.
The museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions throughout the year, with something new always coming into view. Recently they hosted ‘Monet & Chicago’ – an exhibition celebrating Monet’s influence on artists in Chicago – along with ‘Van Gogh’s Bedrooms’ which featured reproductions of Van Gogh’s three iconic bedroom paintings from different times in his life. Other exhibitions have included ‘American Revolutionaries: From Copley to Homer’ which looked at works by American artists between 1750–1880, as well as ‘The Great American Hallucination: Photorealism 1969–1972’ which focused on early photorealism.
In addition to its extensive permanent collections and diverse exhibitions, The Art Institute of Chicago also offers educational programs for adults, children and families alike. From weekly tours to art classes and lectures there is something for everyone at this great institution. There are even free days throughout the year where admission is free!
The Art Institute of Chicago is without question the main art museum in Chicago. It is home to an outstanding permanent collection as well as numerous exhibitions throughout the year that educate and inspire visitors from all walks of life. With its convenient location near Millennium Park it is easy for anyone visiting or living in the city to drop by this cultural hub for some wonderful artwork surrounded by history and culture.
Conclusion: With its world-renowned collections, diverse exhibitions and educational programs The Art Institute of Chicago is undeniably the main art museum in Chicago – providing a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else!