The Bridgeport Art Center is a gallery and artist complex in a former industrial warehouse at 1200 W 35th St in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood. Exposed brick, industrial details and large gallery spaces set the scene for exhibitions, resident artists’ studios and public art. Visit on the monthly Third Friday Open Studios to see work by more than 150 artists, or stop by to explore the building and its art. BASE Community Café and the Chicago Maritime Museum are also on site.
A warehouse turned arts center
The Bridgeport Art Center occupies the former Spiegel Catalog Warehouse at 1200 W 35th St in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood. The building dates to 1911 and has been adapted from an industrial warehouse into a center for artists, exhibitions and events. Its brick walls, wood and metal details retain an industrial character, while large rooms and natural light give the interior a different feel from a conventional gallery.
The building’s architecture is part of the visit. Look for the exposed brick, old industrial sinks and details left from its working past as you move between exhibition spaces. The center also has open-air sculptures and public art around the property.
Studios and exhibitions
The center brings together resident artists working in fields including sculpture, fashion, painting and woodworking. Its gallery spaces cover more than 10,000 square feet and host rotating exhibitions. Open studios give visitors a chance to see artists’ work in the building where it is made, as well as browse pieces that may be available to buy.
Third Friday Open Studios take place once a month and include work by more than 150 artists. The open-studio format makes this a good time to explore a broader range of practices and spaces. Art classes are also held at the center, and Shared Floor Ceramics is among the places to look for during a visit.
Café, museum and event spaces
BASE Community Café and the Chicago Maritime Museum are additional stops within the art center. You can combine them with a gallery visit or an open-studio event. The center is also used for weddings and other gatherings, with event spaces including the Skyline Loft and the ground-floor Sculpture Garden.
The Skyline Loft is on the building’s top floor and has views across the Chicago skyline. The Sculpture Garden has brickwork, chandeliers and natural light. These spaces are used for private events, so the experience there depends on what is scheduled; the public art and gallery areas are the focus for a regular visit.
Häufige Fragen
When are Third Friday Open Studios?
They take place on the third Friday of each month and feature work by more than 150 artists.
Is there an admission fee?
The Third Friday studio tours are free. The provided information does not specify admission terms for other events.
Is parking available?
Yes. The art center has a free parking lot.
What else can I visit at the art center?
BASE Community Café and the Chicago Maritime Museum are on site. Shared Floor Ceramics is another space to look for.
