If you’re a photography enthusiast living in or visiting Chicago, you’re in luck! The city is home to a thriving art scene, including a variety of Chicago photography galleries. From contemporary to traditional, these galleries offer a wide range of photographic styles and genres. In this article, we’ll explore the best Chicago photography galleries that you won’t want to miss.
1. Catherine Edelman Gallery
First on our list of Chicago photography galleries is the Catherine Edelman Gallery. This contemporary art gallery has been a staple of the Chicago art scene since 1987 and features a variety of photographic styles, from documentary to abstract. The gallery represents both emerging and established photographers and is a great spot to see some of the most innovative and thought-provoking photography in the city.
2. Stephen Daiter Gallery
The Stephen Daiter Gallery is another must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts. This gallery specializes in vintage and contemporary photography, with an emphasis on 20th-century modernist photographers. The gallery has an impressive collection of works by some of the most important photographers of the 20th century, including Ansel Adams, Diane Arbus, and Walker Evans.
3. Museum of Contemporary Photography
The Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the exhibition and study of contemporary photography. The museum features a rotating schedule of exhibitions, with a focus on emerging and mid-career photographers. In addition to its exhibition program, the MoCP also offers educational programs and lectures, making it a great spot for both photography enthusiasts and students.
4. Art Institute of Chicago
While not exclusively a photography gallery, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to an impressive collection of photographs. The museum’s photography collection includes over 21,000 works, ranging from daguerreotypes to contemporary digital prints. Some of the highlights of the collection include works by Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Cindy Sherman.
5. Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is not only a beautiful building, but it’s also home to the Chicago Rooms exhibition space, which features a rotating schedule of exhibitions by Chicago-based artists. The space often includes photography exhibitions, making it a great spot to see some of the most exciting and innovative work being produced in the city.
6. Filter Photo Festival
While not a permanent gallery, the Filter Photo Festival is a must-attend event for photography enthusiasts. The festival takes place annually in September and features a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and lectures by some of the most talented photographers in the country. The festival also includes a portfolio review program, providing emerging photographers with the opportunity to get feedback from industry professionals.
7. Gage Gallery
The Gage Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that features a variety of mediums, including photography. The gallery represents both emerging and established artists and is committed to promoting socially and politically engaged artwork. The gallery’s photography exhibitions often explore themes of identity, memory, and social justice.
8. Perspective Gallery
Last but not least on our list of Chicago photography galleries is the Perspective Gallery. This nonprofit organization is run by a collective of photographers and features a variety of photographic styles and genres. The gallery’s exhibitions often explore social and cultural issues, making it a great spot for those interested in socially engaged photography.
Chicago is home to some of the most exciting and innovative photography galleries in the country. From contemporary to traditional, there’s a gallery to suit every taste and interest. We hope this list of Chicago photography galleries has inspired you to explore the city’s vibrant art scene and discover some of the most exciting photography being produced today. So grab your camera and get ready to be inspired!
