I recently became aware of an art community just south of downtown Chicago, in Bridgeport. I've been meeting with artists to review work for upcoming exhibitions, and came upon the Zhou Brothers Art Center and—almost right across the street—the Bridgeport Art Center. Both locations house artist studios and both host a 3rd Friday event at which time the studios and galleries within the buildings, are open to the public.
The Zhou Brothers Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th Street, Chicago, is open from 7-10pm and includes an opening for an exhibition of work by the Zhou Brothers from their American Period. The show, described on their web site, presents... "a selection of works from the 1990's as one of the most pivotal periods in the art career of the Zhou Brothers. A decade that was characterized by permanently establishing themselves in Chicago while projecting exponentially in Europe and throughout the world."
NIU's MFA exhibition is presented in the second floor gallery. The ten artists include five painters, two sculptors, a metalsmith, a printmaker, and a video installation artist.
While you're in the building, make sure you attend the opening reception of "Monochrome" the spring, Galley Artists, exhibition at 33 Contemporary Gallery. The works presented in the exhibition range from painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and mixed media.
When you're finished there... head over to the Bridgeport Art Center, located at 1200 W. 35th Street, Chicago. Make sure that you see the 2nd Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition on the 4th floor. The show opened a couple of weeks ago and it's been touted as "a diverse and fascinating overview of contemporary art in Chicago." If you don't have an opportunity to attend tomorrow's event, the show continues through April 18th. I should also mention that one of my paintings was included into the 2nd Annual Bridgeport Art Center Competition... It was awarded "Best in Show". The 3rd Friday event at the Bridgeport Art Center runs from 6-10pm.
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