The Art Institute has relegated a gem of an exhibit to the basement, sandwiched between offices and long, dim hallways, but Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments is worth leaving the airy Modern Wing for. It features the work of three photographers—John Szarkowski, Richard Nickel, and Aaron Siskind—who documented Louis Sullivan’s architecture in the 1950s, three decades after Sullivan died in near obscurity. more ›

Preservation Chicago placed the Richard Nickel House at 1810 W. Cortland on its "Chicago 7" list of architecturally significant buildings slated for demolition. Nickel, a photographer and architecture preservationist, dedicated his life to preserving Louis Sullivan's classic architecture as Sullivan's buildings were being torn down rapidly during the 60's and 70s. Nickel's home often store rescued artifacts from buildings before being sold to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where they remain on display. more ›

What more is there to say about Carson Pirie Scott? We’ve said so much already. There isn’t much left, much like the slim pickins inside the store, as yesterday was the last day customers were able to buy retail merchandise. We took the opportunity (although we hadn’t planned to and, truthfully, had forgotten the occasion) to scope out the place one last time. more ›

In an interview last month, veteran West Loop gallery owner Rhona Hoffman reflected on how art collection has evolved throughout her career, how the internet has supersized the art fair and made the global scene more accessible than ever. But this interview came not from Art in America or an academic panel but from a Bad At Sports podcast event at ThreeWalls gallery. Art enthusiasts have access to more information, images and, thanks to last... more ›

For the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois, the answer is simple: put down the blowtorch. This year, two high-profile historic buildings have been destroyed by torch-related accidents. The Pilgrim Baptist Church, a centenarian Adler and Sullivan beauty, smoldered in January, and just a few weeks ago, scrap workers accidentally torched the Wirt Dexter Building using the same tool. The LPC calls for new laws restricting such cutting and welding operations at historic sites. Beyond these... more ›