Nestled just a block east of Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile, in the vibrant Near North Side community area of Cook County, Illinois, stands a unique institution: the Arts Club of Chicago. More than just a private club, it serves as a dynamic public exhibition space dedicated to showcasing international contemporary art, playing a pivotal role in the city's rich cultural tapestry for over a century.

A Visionary Founding in the Heart of Chicago's Art Scene

The Arts Club of Chicago first opened its doors in 1916, a period when art was increasingly recognized as an essential component of civilized urban life. Its establishment wasn't a random event; it was directly inspired by the resounding success of the Art Institute of Chicago's handling of the groundbreaking Armory Show. This foundational moment immediately signaled the Club's forward-thinking ethos, positioning it as decidedly pro-Modernist from its very inception. Unlike institutions that focused on accumulating works by established artists, the Arts Club was conceived with a bolder mission: to consistently break new ground with its exhibitions, introducing Chicago and the broader United States to the cutting edge of artistic expression.

Pioneering Exhibitions and Lasting Influence

True to its innovative spirit, the Arts Club of Chicago quickly became a crucible for artistic discovery, hosting exhibitions that left an indelible mark on the art world. One of its most celebrated achievements was presenting Pablo Picasso's first-ever United States showing, a monumental event that offered American audiences their initial intimate encounter with the groundbreaking Cubist master. The Club's commitment to challenging conventions continued through the decades. In 1951, it hosted a significant exhibition by French artist Jean Dubuffet, complemented by his provocative "Anticultural Positions" lecture. This event proved to be a tremendous influence, laying crucial groundwork for what would emerge as the influential mid-1960s Imagist movement. Another pivotal presentation in the history of the Arts Club was the showcasing of Fernand Léger's avant-garde film, "Le Ballet Mécanique," further solidifying its reputation as a haven for experimental and influential art.

Architectural Legacy and Modern Evolution

The Club's journey through the years also involved significant architectural considerations. For a considerable period, its interior space boasted a design by none other than the legendary architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. However, a major transition occurred in 1997 when the Arts Club of Chicago relocated to its current address at 201 E. Ontario Street. This move was not without its share of controversy. In the process of creating its new gallery, the Club controversially demolished the original Mies van der Rohe interior, preserving and relocating only its central staircase as a symbolic link to its past. Despite the debate, the new space offers substantial benefits; at 19,000 square feet (approximately 1,800 square meters), it is a generous 7,000 square feet (about 650 square meters) larger than its predecessor, providing ample room to continue its tradition of grand and impactful exhibitions of international contemporary art.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Arts Club of Chicago

What is the Arts Club of Chicago?

It is a private club and public exhibition space located in Chicago, Illinois, dedicated to showcasing international contemporary art.

When was the Arts Club of Chicago founded?

The Club was founded in 1916, with a clear pro-Modernist stance from its inception.

Where is the Arts Club of Chicago located?

It is situated in the Near North Side community area of Chicago, Illinois, just a block east of the Magnificent Mile.

What made the Club unique at its founding?

It was inspired by the Art Institute's handling of the Armory Show and aimed to "break new ground" with exhibitions of cutting-edge art, rather than just collecting works by established artists.

What are some notable exhibitions hosted by the Arts Club of Chicago?

The Club presented Pablo Picasso's first U.S. showing, hosted a 1951 exhibition and lecture by Jean Dubuffet (influential to the Imagist movement), and showcased Fernand Léger's "Le Ballet Mécanique."

What is the significance of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe to the Club?

The Club's former interior space was designed by the renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, though only the central staircase was preserved during its 1997 relocation.