Before rock poster creators became sought-after illustrators, fielding Q&A sessions, exhibiting in gallery shows and producing what have become highly collectible pieces of visual music history, they were an underground community of talented pioneers working for little recognition and less pay. From it's origins amidst the classic rock shows of the '60s, to the photocopied punk flyers of the '80s, to the multi-color screenprints adorning the walls of indie rock venues across the nation today, forged on sweat, empty pockets and paint, rock poster art has evolved into a significant movement in American contemporary art. more ›

Tonight kicks off the annual Pitchfork Music Fest and music is on everyone's mind. There is no better complement to good music than good art and as you spend the weekend checking out your favorite bands, set some time aside for Flatstock, located inside the Pitchfork grounds. more ›

If you’ve ever wanted to get into Steve Albini’s pants, now’s your chance. more ›

A couple of things caught our attention yesterday and we thought we’d share them. First off Ike Reilly will be on NPR’s World Café today. Now this would be easier if Chicago’s WBEZ carried the show, but it doesn’t so we all have to continuously check the Archives in order to see when they have that up to hear the stylings of Libertyville's finest. And far be it from us to not break news... more ›

"Funny Club" is the name of the figure featured in a new exhibit at Rotofugi, "The Funny Club Show." And in case you're wondering, the figure is a "hyper-articulated bear/monkey/rabbit/cat figure" by B.B. Birdy of Taiwan. Over 140 artists from all over the US and the world were given a blank Funny Club figure to alter however they wanted. The results are a wide range of customizations varying from simple painted figures to elaborate constructions. Since the figures are a part of a travelling exhibit that will hit LA and Taiwan next, they're not for sale. more ›

Chicagoist was going to write something about local poster artist Jay Ryan today, but wouldn't you know it, our friends over at Gapers Block beat us to the punch. (Damn... rival... blogs...) As part of their ongoing Audible City series, they have a great interview with the man behind posters for area shows of The Flaming Lips, Built to Spill, Stereolab, and basically every other quality band that's ever come through town. And Chicagoist learned yesterday that he is providing the cover art and six interior pictures to accompany the hardcover release of Michael Chabon's latest novella, The Final Solution. Check out Ryan's website to see/buy some of his amazing work. And blame Gapers Block for scooping us. more ›