Chicago Arts District

Chicago Arts District is a gallery and studio area at 1945 S Halsted St in Chicago. Its appeal is the chance to step inside working artists’ spaces and see art in the places it is made. On the second Friday of each month, an exhibition brings artists and visitors together, with wine and beer served at the venue. Browse the galleries and shops for paintings and other work at a range of prices, and check the calendar for events such as the Renegade Art Fair.

Inside the studios

The district gives visitors a chance to see artists’ working spaces from the inside. During gallery walks, you can meet artists and talk with them about the ideas behind their work. It is a more direct way to encounter art than viewing finished pieces alone.

The district’s galleries and shops include paintings for sale at a range of prices. Bryan Sperry’s work is another point of interest, located in one of the large buildings on Halsted Street. Nadine Lollino’s dance studio adds a performing-arts stop to a visit focused on galleries.

Monthly exhibitions and events

A group exhibition takes place on the second Friday of each month. Wine and beer are served at the venue, and the evening gives visitors a chance to speak with artists about their paintings and the thinking behind them.

The Renegade Art Fair is among the district’s special events, with art and other goods for sale. Check what is scheduled before setting out, since events provide a different way to explore the area than a regular studio visit.