I'm so happy to be able to post the first review of 1100 Florence! First and foremost I love that…read morethis former Polish grocery store has taken on a creative and artistic life. The owners--local artists and arts advocates, are giving back to the community by repurposing the front of the building into a gallery space, event space, and pretty much a space for any and all things creative. I recently had the pleasure of attending a photo shoot there. The morning light was absolutely ideal, and the white walls with the wood floors made for a perfect backdrop. The owner, Lisa, also in attendance, mentioned that she rented the space to the photographer on an hourly basis (can't remember, but the rate was very reasonable). Such a great addition to Evanston, and I loved the vibe so much I want to dream up my own exhibit for the future. Note: If you're lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the really cute bunny that takes up residence in the building and roams freely.

The craziest part is that I grew up a block from this gallery and I remember what it was a butcher…read moreshop and for years it was vacant. Along comes a visionary couple who turned it into an art gallery. The first exhibit featuring artist Ben Blount is politically charged in mind opening. Don't miss it!

Housed in the historic Lake Bluff train station, the Artists on the Bluff gallery offers a…read morewonderful opportunity to enjoy beautiful, original art work and purchase unique gifts or home decor items. Prices are reasonable and items for sale range from small note cards to large oils to reproductions of the train station's murals and jewelry. The entrance to the gallery is track-side. Browsing is welcomed by volunteers from the local artists' organization who staff the gallery Wednesdays and Fridays 10am -1pm and 3pm - 6pm and Saturdays 9am - 1pm.

Amazing selection of communion gifts. Reasonable price and friendly staff. I would definitely go…read moreback again.

A hidden gem. This place is so amazing and they have so much to offer. Not to mention the employees…read moreare great!

I have been able to purchase 3 works of art from this gallery. I love their knowledgeable staff…read moreand that they are willing to work with and educate the buyer, without being at all pushy. The caliber of artists they represent is the highest and very diverse. I hope to be able to add to my collection soon.

So your local theater is closed, the mall is too dangerous, and your favorite symphony has been…read morereduced to digital noise. Now, right now, is the time to bravely walk into an art gallery and get acquainted with a few creative souls whose livelihoods are jeopardized by our present pandemic. Find a gallery whose artists enrich your soul, whose works belong in your home. Get to know their work. Buy a few pieces. My personal favorite is Zia Gallery in Winnetka. Zia's small space houses the work of 19 extraordinary artists. I have followed their works for several years, have purchased a few pieces, and cherish every opportunity to see new additions. Without fail, my visits there are enriched by talking to Anne Hughes, who not only can illuminate her own creative process, but is as intimately familiar with every other artist's work as with her own. Visit Zia's website to see examples. Then adopt one of their artists. You don't have to spend a fortune. The pieces I have bought at this gallery have ranged from $200 to $1200 and I cherish them. Others I've admired cost much more. Buy what you can afford, but don't let these vibrant galleries die. Just. Do. It.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a lovelier antique store in town. Ed, the manager, is so gracious…read more-- and knowledgeable. This is my new favorite go-to for lamps, and the beautifully curated pottery keeps ones eyes on the move. Lovely period pieces, stunningly beautiful china, an assortment of artwork, and a feast for the senses!

Free (f)art gallery housed in the first-and-a-half floor of the University of Illinois at Chicago's…read moreArt and Design Hall. For a school that attempts so hard to be cutting edge and up to date, they sure hate the idea of accessibility and simplicity. First, to park, you have to battle condo and greektown street parking (not to mention student parking) or fall into the trap known as UIC lot parking. Word to the wise, take the train or bus (bike/walk) to get here, if you seriously need to take a car come early and hunt down a street spot because you'll be trapped in lots or be towed if you don't. Second, it is pretty hard to find. Its in the nondescript building marked by a bland painted steel sign, walk through the door with the glass facade and follow the hall to the left and up some stairs. If you do not do stairs, you have to take the elevator the ever-annoying 1/2 flight of stairs, delineated in the elevator as "1F" rather than "1." Perhaps the F is for "fuck, what moron built an art gallery 1.5 floors up?" Third, the reason its free is due to the fact that they happen to think the graduate work that is rotated in is.. get this, worth viewing. The redeeming quality about this place is its free. You can't vote someplace that is free with one star unless you get suckerpunched, in my opinion. I haven't been hit visiting the gallery yet. Currently there are some fantastic graduate works (MFA show) for the next few weeks, but it can be hit or miss. C. Britt and M. Jinks are showing work until April, when E. Fleischauer and D. Carter (amongst others) are showing work, shouldn't be missed. Hey, at least its not SAIC..

Solid gallery with amazing history. If you're looking for a place that has been around for a long…read moretime, worked with a slew of Chicago artists, with the funkiest/weirdest floors you'll ever see, this is the place. UIC connected, in the arts building, fitting...and great staff!

Shop here often. Never disappointed. Well curated selection with character and fair price point.read more

I just bought a lovely signed serigraph of Venice from here. It will remind me of our actual visit…read morethere with family.

The display window is one of the better ones I saw during the recent River North gallery opening…read morenight. Wouldn't you want a room in your house to look like this?

Great gallery tucked into a small-ish space on Superior. I went to the Lee Grantham show in early…read more2018, and it's stayed with me. Very friendly, helpful staff and reasonable price points. Good for both collectors and regular art enthusiasts!!