The city's buzziest art event just got a little bit cooler. Actually, a lot cooler. We're talking about EXPO Chicago, an annual international exposition of contemporary/modern art and design that garners the interest of seasoned cultural enthusiasts...and the curious. This year, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago has announced the return of Vernissage (varnishing day in French), the opening-night benefit and preview of EXPO Chicago, which hasn't taken place for eight years. It's a big deal considering the preview party used to be considered one of the most influential art events of the year.
Taking place on Wednesday, September 19, attendees of Vernissage will get an exclusive sneak peek at the work from over 100 prestigious international galleries that will be showcased at EXPO Chicago September 20 through the 23. There will also be live entertainment, plenty of libations, and food tastings from restaurants like Tavernita, Province, and Graham Elliot. Not a bad way to get a little culture in if you ask us.
Where: Navy Pier Festival Hall, 600 East Grand Avenue (at Illinois Street), 312-595-7437.
Details: The art preview will begin with a Patron Reception featuring spirits from Hart Davis Hart Wine from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by the Opening Night Reception from 7 to 9 p.m.
Tickets: Benefactor for $600, Patron for $400 and Individual for $100. For more information visit the MCA Chicago website.
Photo: Courtesy of the MCA Chicago