School of the Art Institute of Chicago MFA grad and current teacher Justin Cooper is known from here to Rio for his wacky artistic touch, with works that often incorporate a humorous performance element. Tonight, Monique Meloche Gallery in the West Loop hosts an opening of his latest work: Paranormaldise, in which he presents a series of sculptures manipulating mostly ready-made materials from familiar places like Home Depot or the Party Store. (6-9 p.m. 118 N. Peoria.) Recently he took some time to answer a few questions about his penchant for pumpkins and thing for party bling. more ›