It is part of growing up. You get older and you take on more responsibility. It is true for people. It is true for organizations. And, it seems to be true for Wiggleworms… more ›

Hop on that bike saddle and crank your chain, bike likers. On Saturday, May 30 Chicago cyclists will trek to the Hyde Park Art Center for Chicago Public Radio Presents’ panel discussion, Hubs & Spokes: Threading the Wheels of Chicago’s Bike Culture. The event begins with a free bike ride from five city locations and then converges at the Art Center for a ticketed panel chat about the cycling community’s reclamation of the bike as a respectable, practical mode of everyday transport. more ›

In recognition of its 70th anniversary, the Hyde Park Art Center is rediscovering its roots as an artist-run space with Artists Run Chicago—a showcase of Chicago's most noteworthy alternative venues that continue the DIY legacy. Like creative incubators, these transformed apartments, storefronts, and warehouses support and showcase unconventional work that tends to flip the finger at the confines of capital “A” art. (And thank God because sometimes the austere wine and cheese scene makes us want to break things.) In spite of spatial setbacks, shoestring budgets, and the day job juggle, these alternative galleries persevere. Unfortunately, some fold, yet others—like the HPAC—succeed. more ›

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Artropolis takes over the Merchandise Mart this weekend with five shows, dozens of special events, and thousands of visitors roaming the halls for a dose (or overdose) of culture. Two years ago, Art Chicago made an eleventh hour deal with the Mart to stave off cancellation. Last year, the partnership was formalized and Bridge Art Fair, Artist Project, Intuit Show, and Antiques Fair happily coexisted with the big show by the river. Actually, Bridge’s organizers weren’t so happy after all. Bridge guru Michael Workman told the Reader he didn’t want his enterprise to be Art Chicago's “reject show.” more ›

Here are some things to do this evening to consider bringing your voter receipt. more ›

Wal-Mart is reporting that the store that opened in Chicago has produced $2 million in state and local taxes and has created 443 jobs since it opened 6 months ago. The USPS in Chicago is hiring 200 more letter carriers. Comcast is buying Fandango and starting a website for watching TV and movies. Should the Lakeshore Athletic Club be a landmark? Some are saying it should after finding out that a prospective buyer wants... more ›

"Xing" via swanksalot. more ›

Ah, it seems fall is here with all its beauty and crisp air. In addition to the indescribable color of the leaves, we look forward to everyone putting away the cargo shorts and sandals and bringing out the scarves and sharp jackets. We should all get out and see the beautiful people before they lock themselves inside underneath down comforters. We have put together a few things for you to do this weekend to get out of the house. Feel free to add more random events in the comments section. more ›

Chicagoist never gets the last word. Shows run long after we’ve weighed in, discussions evolve beyond our ramblings, companies grow, companies fold, artists work hard to make a living or to make the next news cycle. For our curious and attention-deficient readers, some quick updates on previously reported stories. Art Fairs and Festivals At the eleventh hour, the Merch Mart saved Art Chicago 2006. Soon after the exhibitors packed up came word that Merchandise Mart... more ›

Years ago, in more innocent times, the Museum of Contemporary Art held an annual marathon party to commemorate the Summer Solstice and reacquaint us with the institution. Those days, like the MCA’s outsized hospitality, are no more. But this weekend the Hyde Park Art Center steals a page from that playbook, celebrating their newly christened home during the 36-hour Creative Move. more ›

This week brings an embarrassment of riches for art lovers. Longer, warmer days inspire artists, collectors, and curious bystanders to hook up, talk art, and put some serious coin in a few dealers’ and artists’ pockets. Everyday through Friday we’ll be featuring the highlights of another spring festival, helping you stay sane in these frenzied days of wheeling and dealing. more ›