Just a short ten minute walk from the Knickerbocker is Chicago’s own Museum of Contemporary Art located just two blocks behind the Michigan Avenue Visitor’s Center. Now through October, they have a very impressive exhibit of one of America’s most recognized modern artists Alexander Calder.
Alexander Calder is known for his large mobiles and stabiles located throughout the world. Calder became famous in the 1960’s after several of his large scale pieces were commissioned for the Olympics in Mexico City and JFK airport. Locally, Calder is the artist who created the “Flamingo” statue in front of the Federal Center Plaza and the city even had a parade in his honor in 1974.
The exhibit at the MCA displays many of Calder’s smaller works including several stabiles and mobiles. The large exhibit space is divided into his bronze work, animal imagery and centrally located is one of my favorites, Spiders. It really is a good representation of his work and legacy.
Across the hall are exhibits from various artists that have been influenced by Calder and his artistic style. It is a really nice mixture of and American iconic artist and his influences.
The MCA is open Tuesdays from 10am until 8pm. Tuesdays are also free all day. During the summer, there is a small farmer’s market that sets up in front of the museum with local vendors selling everything from pastries to produce. Wednesdays through Sundays, the museum is open from 10am – 5pm at a suggested admission of $12 for adults and $7 from seniors and students. Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant is available for lunch with an express counter available for food during open hours.
Enjoy!
Jeff
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