666 N. Michigan Ave.
(312726-3939
Admission: $5 adults; $2.50 seniors. Free for all teachers,
students, veterans, and children under 14. Also
Tuesdays.
www.terramuseum.org
Chicago has a wealth of art to suit the tastes of most
visitors to the city - everything from ethnic art to modern art,
outdoor sculpture to the vast exhibits in the Art Institute of
Chicago. If your preference runs to American art, you’ll find
one of the most comprehensive collections in the world at the
Terra Museum of American Art. Visitors can learn about America’s
artistic heritage through permanent and visiting exhibits, and
educational programs.
The Terra Museum of American Art was founded in 1980 by
Daniel J. Terra, former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Cultural
Affairs. The museum moved from its location in Evanston,
Illinois to Chicago in 1987. Its Michigan Avenue address
increased its accessibility and exhibition space. The current
building was designed by Booth-Hansen and was awarded the
American Institute of Architects Award.
Inside this five-story museum you’ll find more than 800
important works of art including paintings, prints and
sculptures. Some of the artists represented include Homer,
Sargent, Cassatt, O’Keeffe, Hopper and Avery. Don’t miss the
group of 69 works by Maurice and Charles Prendergast, including
oil paintings, watercolors, monotypes and objects. The American
Impressionist works of Theodore Robinson, Frieske and others are
also of note. An early American masterpiece by Samuel F.B.
Morse, "Gallery of the Louvre," (painted 1831-1833) is
considered a museum highlight.
Contact the museum for information on upcoming visiting
exhibits. Past traveling exhibitions included "N.C. Wyeth
and His Grandson: A Legacy," and "Robert Capa:
Photographs." The museum offers scheduled public tours at
12 noon daily, (except Monday when the museum is closed), and at
2 p.m. weekends.
After your visit, consider browsing the museum store for an
unusual souvenir. Items for sale include children’s books,
posters, note cards, jewelry, textiles and pottery by regional
artists.
The museum is open Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday
through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 12 noon
to 5 p.m. General admission is $7.00 for adults; $3.50 for
seniors; free at all times to teachers, students, U.S. veterans
and children under 12.
For information on the Terra Museum of American Art, call
312.664.3939.
