Art on theMART
Another first post for me is dedicated to art! This past weekend was the grand opening of the Art on theMART. A public exhibit that will be ongoing through weekdays at the Merchandise Mart. Shutting down parts of Wacker b/t Wells and Lake, the premier was a big deal and great for the city of Chicago.
The Art on theMART provides 4 artists with an enormous canvas for their work to be displayed. Using numerous projectors, they are able to illustrate this "digital art" on one of the most famous buildings in the city (also where my wife works!). It was quite a site to see, and beautiful. Each artist brought a unique piece of work to the table, ranging from realism, to abstract, to classical Chinese ink. I didn't quite understand all the stories that were being told, but enjoyed the journey each one presented.
If I'm being honest, it wasn't my favorite exhibit. I felt it dragged at times, and my limited background in art probably hindered my overall appreciation. It wasn't always clear what was being projected, and this may have been due to our placement for the show. We were on the street, in a large crowd, with multiple street lights blocking the view. If I were to do it again (which I absolutely will!), I would get there earlier and watch from the River Walk instead of street side. The grand finale for the show was spectacular, using fireworks to celebrate this grand moment.
Overall, I feel the installation is great for the city. It will be played 5 days a week from 7-9pm (hoping for no car accidents!), for 10 months of the year! It is sure to bring tourists, and shows off the city in a unique way. Even if you don't like art, it's free! Being close to the river walk you can even grab a bite to eat, and have a drink while you enjoy. I love the idea and am excited to go back. It will be fun to watch the program grow and see how new artists interpret their canvas.
The Art on theMART provides 4 artists with an enormous canvas for their work to be displayed. Using numerous projectors, they are able to illustrate this "digital art" on one of the most famous buildings in the city (also where my wife works!). It was quite a site to see, and beautiful. Each artist brought a unique piece of work to the table, ranging from realism, to abstract, to classical Chinese ink. I didn't quite understand all the stories that were being told, but enjoyed the journey each one presented.
If I'm being honest, it wasn't my favorite exhibit. I felt it dragged at times, and my limited background in art probably hindered my overall appreciation. It wasn't always clear what was being projected, and this may have been due to our placement for the show. We were on the street, in a large crowd, with multiple street lights blocking the view. If I were to do it again (which I absolutely will!), I would get there earlier and watch from the River Walk instead of street side. The grand finale for the show was spectacular, using fireworks to celebrate this grand moment.
Overall, I feel the installation is great for the city. It will be played 5 days a week from 7-9pm (hoping for no car accidents!), for 10 months of the year! It is sure to bring tourists, and shows off the city in a unique way. Even if you don't like art, it's free! Being close to the river walk you can even grab a bite to eat, and have a drink while you enjoy. I love the idea and am excited to go back. It will be fun to watch the program grow and see how new artists interpret their canvas.
Photo taken by: Patrick Nielsen
Review: 3/5
Project Information:
https://www.artonthemart.com
Location:
222 Merchandise Mart Plaza
Chicago, IL 60654
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