The Chicago Academy of Design was born on Dearborn Street in 1863. The intention of the 35 artists who founded it was to run a free school with it's own gallery. The Academy was granted a charter in 1867 and classes commenced in 1868 meeting daily at a cost of ten dollars a month.
Initially the Academy was successful enough to build it's own five story building. Made of stone and located at 66 West Adams Street the new location opened on November 22, 1870. Sadly, in 1871 the Great Fire of Chicago destroyed the Academy building and threw the endeavor into financial crisis.
The Academy struggled on in rented quarters but failed in spite of best efforts. Bankruptcy occurred in 1879 and the members then formed the Chicago Academy of Fine arts and bought the assets of the Academy at auction. In 1882 the name was changed to the Chicago Art Institute.
Today the Art Institute is a world recognized school of fine arts and museum. The offerings include one of the world's best collections of impressionist and post impressionist paintings. American classic works such as Grant Wood's American Gothic are on display here.
Many exhibits will appeal to children's fertile imaginations. There is an impressive collection of masks, shields, and spears. Miniature homes from modern architecture and examples dating to the 13th century. Games and other hands on activities for children are found at the Kraft Education Center and there is even a nursing area in the women's room on the lower level.
There is a cafe, aptly named The Cafe, and The Garden Restaurant on site. The Cafe is self service with a grill, carving station, salad, and pizza. The Garden Restaurant offers a full menu and bar with a wine list. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day The Garden Restaurant offers free live music from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
The exhibits begin outside with the famous Bronze Lions guarding the West Entrance on Michigan Avenue. In the event that a Chicago sports team makes the playoffs the lions may be festooned with the team's uniform. Inside the East Entrance is a reconstruction of the trading room from the old Chicago Stock Exchange made using salvage from the original.
Normal admission fees are twelve dollars for adults and seven for seniors and students. During the summer season Thursday and Friday evenings offer free admission. Discount packages are available at local hotels. With over 40 centuries of art and artifacts on display, a superb downtown location. and exhibits and amenities for all the The Chicago Art Institute Museum needs to be on every art lovers list of places to see.
