Cultural Immersion

It is Mid-May and we are still freaking cold. Since scorching summer days seem oh-so far away, we scoured the city to see what our fine cultural institutions have to offer -because according to the 10 day forecast, we might be spending quite some time indoors.

Art Institute: While we will forever love the impressionist wing of the AI, they are currently showcasing the astounding collection of Judith Neisser a distinguished collector of international contemporary art. The Neisser Collection features an extraordinary selection of paintings, sculpture, and works on paper created from the 1960s to the present. Remarkable in its quality and focus, the Judith Neisser Collection gives special emphasis to a core group of artists emerging from Minimal and Conceptual art of the 1960s, most notably Sol LeWitt, Robert Ryman, Donald Judd, Brice Marden, Dan Flavin, and Blinky Palermo.

MCA: If you only go to the MCA on "First Fridays" it's time to change that. Starting on May 28 our favorite museum is housing the work of Mark Bradford This exhibition is the first survey of the artist's work to date. Spanning the years 2001 to 2010, it examines Bradford's work in all media, beginning with early sculptural projects, and culminating in a number of new commissions. Deeply influenced by his experience growing up in South Central Los Angeles, the titles of his works often allude to stereotypes and the dynamics of class, race, and gender-based economies that structure urban society in the United States.

Steppenwolf: Our favorite theater on Halsted is currently running "Hot L Baltimore" chronicling the lives of those who live in a formerly swanky hotel that is now run-down and home to a collection of mis-fits. This acclaimed play from the author of Balm in Gilead is filled with everyday humanity - unexpectedly intimate and moving. The "Hot L Baltimore" reveals the private lives of an unconventional community about to be turned inside out.

Chicago History Museum: Starting on May 21, the Museum will be exploring Chicago's relationship with the LGBT community with the exhibit "Out in Chicago." The exhibit spans diverse stories and perspectives and explores issues such as language, gender expression, formation of identity, the role of LGBT people in politics and culture, and family relationships. It balances private stories with public perspectives in relation to gender, community, and identity and spotlights the inspiring and charged heritage of our diverse Chicago community.

Photo credit: Mark Bradford: Thriller, 2009. Collection Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago Photo: Nathan Keay, © MCA Chicago.