A Snapshot of Chicago Art Fairs: 1948-2004 features information on 22 art fairs and visual art festivals throughout Chicago and presents materials from 16 archival collections in the holdings of 8 Chicago Collections Consortium members. The exhibit documents Chicago’s rich history of art fairs and festivals and their impact on the diverse communities they serve, focusing on non-corporate events organized by artists or community organizations to provide vibrant new spaces for artists and the public to interact. Questions explored in the exhibit include: Why were Chicago art fairs necessary? Who was permitted to show their artwork at these events, and on what terms? What happens to art fairs when local artists are pushed out of the community or when the event outgrows the neighborhood? How have Chicago art fairs and festivals benefited local artists, collectors, students, and communities?
The exhibition launched with a virtual conversation featuring the curators, Autumn Mather and Molly Szymanski.
Watch the video recording.
Curated by Autumn Mather and Molly Szymanski, A Snapshot of Chicago Art Fairs: 1948–2004 highlights 22 art fairs and festivals that shaped Chicago’s art scene. Drawing on 16 archival collections, the exhibit examines artist-led and community-driven events, exploring their necessity, inclusivity, and impact on local artists, collectors, and neighborhoods.
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An initiative of the Terra Foundation for American Art in partnership with artists and organizations across the city, Art Design Chicago is a series of events and exhibitions that highlight the city’s artistic heritage and creative communities.
