Located in Downtown Chicago not far from Lake Michigan is the Art Institute, one of the largest collections of art in America. Protected out front by two large cast bronze Lions who have become unofficial guardians of the city. The pair were unveiled on May 10th 1894 and were sculpted by Edward Kemeys who was a self taught artist but went on to become one of the countries greatest animalier (sculptor of animals). The lion positioned north of the steps is titled “on the prowl” and the other to the south “in an attitude of defiance.
Once inside there is so much to see from paintings to sculptures, ancient antiquities to modern furniture. We only had the one day so we decided to concentrate on our passions of painting.
There are some hugely important names in this museum. Monet, Picasso, Warhol, Van Gogh, Hockney, Rembrandt, the list goes on and on. This is a very special place and a must see for anyone visiting the mid west. Here are a few of my favourite exhibits below.
