The Art Institute of Chicago's Modern Wing
Grand Opening of the Modern Wing Spring 2009
Jun 22, 2009
Designed by Renzo Piano, the architecture of the Art Institute of Chicago's new wing is in perfect harmony with the art collections it complements: Modern and European, Contemporary, Architecture and Design, and Photography. Art lovers can meander from gallery to gallery taking in the works of familiar masters, as well as learning about recent famous artists.
The Art Collection
Starting at the top of the building under the expansive steel roof and dramatic skylights, visitors can explore the Modern European Collection. Since 1913 when it hosted the Armory Show, the Art Institute of Chicago has been one of the leaders in forming this specific art collection. Over the years, it has grown to include works by Henri Matisse, Constantin Brâncusi, Salvador Dali, and Pablo Picasso. Other notable pieces are by Joan Miró and Max Ernst.
On the second floor, the Contemporary Collection houses masterpieces from Chicago and around the world, featured in thematic or single artist groupings. Works of artists like Jason Pollock, Gerhard Richter, David Hockney and Jason Johns are presented along with those of Sylvia Plimack Mangold, Kerry James Marshall, and Andy Warhol. Significant art movements from the 1940s to the present are represented, too. Film and video collections complete this collection.
Although many of the works in the Architecture and Design Collection are part of the Burnham Library group associated with Chicago, other national and international works are now part of the display. The first room features objects by Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Elizabeth Diller, among others. The second room displays more contemporary functional designs by such well-known artists as Ingo Maurer and Patrick Joulin.
Completing the contents of the first floor Modern Wing exhibits, the Contemporary Photography gallery contains two main attractions – rotating art works from the permanent collection combined with works by invited artists. The displays created by Gaylen Gerber, a teacher at the School of the Art Institute, lure the art lover to the works of Liz Deschenes, Irving Penn, Richard Prince – and more.
Additional Spaces of Interest in the Modern Wing
Even the most enthusiastic gallery vistor needs time to relax from the visual stimulation. There are spaces in the Modern Wing to do just that.
- A rooftop terrace overlooks Millennium Park
- A balcony cafe provides a restful place to have a snack
- Two shops, The Modern Wing Shop and the Kids Shop, provide a place to browse merchandise with an artistic theme
- An educator resource center houses books, workspaces, computer stations and provides professional development for teachers
The Modern Wing of the Art Institute sits like a jewel near the shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago. Art lovers will want to treat themselves and their muse to its splendor.
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