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What Is the Art Institute of Chicago?

Jessica Ellis
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 6,814
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The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most famous and popular art museums in the United States. The museum serves both entertainment and educational purposes; in addition to its art collection, it is also home to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned art and design college. In addition to the museum's famed Impressionistic and Post-Impressionism art collection, it also features an extensive library and large wing devoted to modern art.

The history of the Art Institute dates back to the mid-19th century, when a group of local artists started an admission-free collective institute to train new artists. After the initial building was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, the assets of the original institute were purchased by a like-minded organization, which established the Art Institute of Chicago in 1883. In 1893, the Institute moved to a new permanent building near the banks of Lake Michigan, where the collection remains in the 21st century.

The art collection of the museum contains thematic works from many different periods and cultures, including African-American arts, works from local Chicago artists, artwork that depicts children, and portraits. An extensive modern art wing opened in 2009, marking the largest expansion in the history of the museum. Possibly the most famous feature of the museum is the extensive Impressionism and Post-Impressionism collection, which includes more than 30 works by Claude Monet, as well as famous paintings and sculptures by Paul Cezanne, Edgar Degas, and Vincent Van Gogh.

The Art Institute of Chicago remains committed to art education, primarily through its relationship with the School of the Art Institute. This accredited school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of art-related subjects, including architecture, film, painting, and art administration. One of the largest art programs in the world, the school maintains about 3,000 students per year. Distinguished alumni from the school include painter Georgia O'Keefe, humorist David Sedaris, and illustrator Edward Gorey.

Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most popular tourist activities in the city, though the museum also boasts a large local membership program. The museum is open nearly every day of the year, with the exception of some holidays. Special discounts and free admission on certain days are frequently available for local residents and school groups. In addition to seeing the regular collection, visitors may also be able participate in a wide variety of lectures, guided tours, and special exhibitions that change regularly.

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Jessica Ellis
By Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis brings a unique perspective to her work as a writer for WiseGeek. While passionate about drama and film, Jessica enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics, creating content that is both informative and engaging for readers.

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Discussion Comments
By truman12 — On Mar 11, 2012

Can anyone tell me about the discounts and free days? I am headed to Chicago at the end of the month and I will be there for a week. I would love to stop by the art institute but I will be traveling with very limited funds. If there is any way at all I could save a few bucks on the admission price that would be a big help.

By jonrss — On Mar 10, 2012

@chivebasil - I couldn't agree more. I love Chicago and I especially love the art institute. I make a point to go to it every time I visit Chicago.

It makes for a wonderful day trip because there are so many other sights and sounds within walking distance. I will often go to the art museum in the morning, stop off for a delicious lunch and then spend the afternoon shopping or strolling down Michigan avenue. On a nice spring day I think that it's Chicago at its best.

By chivebasil — On Mar 09, 2012

I have lived in Chicago for most of my adult life and I make a visit to the art Institute at least three times a year. They have a few works in their permanent collection that are amongst my all time favorites and they have a great line up of touring exhibitions and one off shows. I always see something I like when I go.

But more than that they are a first class art institution that does a great job of getting the public engaged in the art conversation. They have events throughout the year that cater to families, young people, mothers, art professionals and others. I often go to hear speakers or to take a specialized tour. There is so much more there than just art on the walls.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis...
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