From Chicago Sun-Times · · 2m
Young Collectors Hunt Chicago’s Next Art Stars
Chicago’s Exhibition Week draws young collectors to find emerging talent in galleries.
In brief
Chicago’s Exhibition Week draws young collectors to find emerging talent in galleries. Young art collectors in Chicago are seeking new talent through Exhibition Week’s gallery events. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Exhibition Week Launches
Chicago’s Exhibition Week, organized by Gertie, runs through Sunday and highlights over 40 galleries.
“She’s a genius.”
Gertie’s Strategy
Gertie incentivizes visitors to collect stickers from four galleries for free Museum of Contemporary Art admission.
“We want people to keep coming back.”
Ventriloquist Show
Sophie Becker’s ventriloquist dummy Ronnie Woods performs in '82 Nights Only' at Gertie Hub.
“It’s a little cheeky.”
West Town Galleries
Art lovers visit West Town galleries to see works by local and international artists.
“I don’t consider Little Village a ghetto.”
Sara Toussaint’s Story
Sara Toussaint, a Florida collector, bought Clotilde Jiménez’s 'Ghetto Wizard' piece inspired by her South Side roots.
“At that moment I was like, I do want to support artists that I feel like I can identify with.”
Erinne Brown’s Advice
Erinne Brown, a Chicago collector, started small with a $200 painting and now builds a strategic art budget.
“I started off super small and I mean that literally.”
Garett Schwindt’s Journey
Garett Schwindt, a Chicago psychotherapist, began collecting art accidentally 10 years ago.
“Everybody in Chicago is gonna be so generous with their information and time.”
Local Artists Shine
Slovakian artist Alexandra Barth and Puerto Rican artist Clotilde Jiménez showcase works at Chicago galleries.
“The work kind of gravitated towards me.”
Art School Events
Art school events help collectors find pieces that could become professional careers.
“If you see something you love, the next thing you know, that could be someone who grows in their career professionally.”
Exhibition Week Focus
Exhibition Week emphasizes accessible, community-driven art experiences over traditional gallery culture.
“We’re in on the joke with you: We’re going to bring you to this space and show you very serious, interesting contemporary art.”
Collectors’ Advice
Collectors recommend checking layaway plans and asking artists about prints within their price range.
“Check out some of the art school events.”
Chicago’s Art Scene
Chicago offers a welcoming environment for art collectors to connect with artists and galleries.
“Coming to Chicago, I felt it to be a very welcoming environment.”
Exhibition Week Impact
Exhibition Week helps young collectors build relationships with artists and galleries.
“Developing relationships with artists and gallerists is key to building a great collection.”
Art Shows in Chicago
Chicago’s galleries host diverse art shows featuring local and international talent.
“It really impacted the rest of my life and career.”
Exhibition Week Details
Exhibition Week runs through Sunday and includes rotating art shows and performances.
“We want people to keep coming back.”
Collectors’ Goals
Young collectors aim to find emerging artists and build meaningful art collections.
“I would say check out some of the art school events.”
Here's the gist
Young art collectors in Chicago are seeking new talent through Exhibition Week’s gallery events.
