Sarah Dahnke

With winter finally arriving, along with the sedentary lifestyle that often accompanies it, going to galleries outside of my immediate neighborhood is not always an appealing concept. But after finding myself on the 2000 block of South Halsted this past weekend, I've been inspired all over again to investigate the unique galleries and hidden apartment spaces that populate the area.

The Chicago Arts District is hosting its monthly 2nd Fridays event on February 9, and many of the galleries and studios in the 18th and Halsted area will be open to the public simultaneously. While there may be too many galleries to visit in just a couple of hours, there are some exhibits that are not to be missed. Read below for a north-to-south guide of must-see spaces in the area.

Chicago Art Department
1837 S. Halsted

"What would you do if your house was on fire?" This is the question seven Chicago Art Department members asked themselves before creating the work displayed in this newest exhibition, "House on Fire." This installation show, which marks the first collective show at CAD, is meant to inspire questions about value and identity.

Vespine Gallery
1907 S. Halsted

Lisa Whiting's "Synapse," based on the concept that "all things in humanity have the potential to be grotesque and beautiful," is an exploration of the miniscule in comparison to the colossal. It attempts to convey the age-old concept that we all may be a small part of this earth, but we're still important components.

Logsdon 1909 Gallery and Studio
1909 S. Halsted

This pristine gallery hosts a photographic exhibition by Rachael Kerley. Her photos are mounted in collage form after being manipulated by fire or simply being torn; other photos are merely displayed in a traditional format. The final products are meant to reflect her ultimate goal, which is to allow the viewer to understand that we are all a victim of "overwhelming temporality."

Lanza Studios
1917 S. Halsted

The dynamic artist duo of Gabe and Jill Lanza opens the doors to their joint studio for 2nd Fridays, as they display their newest works. Gabe's acrylic paintings are cartoonish and mod, often featuring toys, such as robots or spaceships. Jill's book and paper art is more demure, focusing on a single concept and color scheme in each work.

Get Knifed Gallery
1932 S. Halsted, #201

Although this gallery isn't the last destination on the north-to-south jaunt down Halsted, I suggest visiting it last. This brand-new gallery with an ominous name is sure to bring the apartment-space/party vibe, as their press releases brag about the prevalence of PBR at their openings. The inaugural exhibit features works by illustrator/painter Max Bare and former Time Out Chicago photo contest winner Nathaniel Bettinger.

Under the Wire
2210 S. Halsted

Glass blowing isn't just limited to hippies trying to make a sweet bong. Under the Wire's newest exhibit displays works by chemist David Fremgen, Ph.D., who used his twenty years in the field of science to create intricate glass works. This venue is also an "art boutique" where jewelry, ceramics and paintings are also found. Think of it as the Sacred Art of Pilsen.

If you get lost or need a map, there will be an information booth at 1821 South Halsted that should contain all of the information you need.

The Chicago Arts Districts's 2nd Fridays event runs from 6pm-10pm on February 9.

(2007-02-06)

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