The renowned comic book artist unmasks his methods for capturing Spider-Man, Black Panther and other Marvel superheroes in his new book “Marvelocity.”
Stories by Marc Vitali
The Weird and Fanciful Art of the Hairy Who
A new show at the Art Institute explores the work of a group of Chicago artists who made a strong impression on the art world in the 1960s.
Fall Theater Recommendations from Hedy Weiss
Hedy Weiss reviews a provocative new play about sex offenders at Steppenwolf Theatre, plus a new musical based on the movie “Tootsie.”
New Book ‘Art in Chicago’ an Ambitious Historical Overview
Chicago has been the creative home to many unusual artists over its history. A new book looks at the big picture, from the Great Chicago Fire to the art scene of today.
South Side Artists of the ‘60s and ‘70s Get Spotlight in 2 Exhibitions
How South Side artists charted new courses for Chicago art – and created a cultural legacy that echoes to this day.
Transforming the Merchandise Mart Into a Canvas for Digital Art
This weekend, the largest digital art projection in the world will be projected onto a Chicago landmark. Here’s a preview of Art on the Mart.
Singer Paul Marinaro ‘Blessed’ to be Performing in Chicago
One of Chicago’s hottest singers is on the comeback trail following a severe health scare. We catch up with Paul Marinaro at the Green Mill.
Fall Gardening Tips From Eliza Fournier of the Chicago Botanic Garden
Cooler weather can present challenges to local gardeners. How to make the most of the season.
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art ‘Lions’ Exhibit Taps into Its Roots
A jewel of a museum in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village has emphasized contemporary art for more than 40 years. We visit the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art for a look at its past – and future.
On Eve of CSO Season Opener, a Conversation with Riccardo Muti
Chicago Symphony Orchestra music director Riccardo Muti joins Hedy Weiss in conversation.
Argonne National Laboratory Assists Hurricane Florence Response
The important role computer models play in predicting the impact of hurricanes. We speak with David Brannegan of Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois.
‘Strange Worlds’ First Solo Show for Late Chicago Artist Todros Geller
Industry in Chicago and old world traditions in a rare show by a 20th century Chicago artist at Spertus Institute. We go for a look.
New Home and Vision for Chicago Architecture Foundation
After more than 25 years on Michigan Avenue, the cultural organization has moved into a spectacular new space on East Wacker Drive, expanding its mission and its footprint on the city.
‘Peacebook’ Festival 2018 Gets Assist from the Wu Tang Clan
Tap, rap, and a whole lot more when Collaboraction’s performance festival visits the West Side.
‘America to Me’ a Story of High School in Black and White
A conversation with “Hoop Dreams” director Steve James, who tackles an ambitious series about racial disparity in a Chicago-area high school.
Mysterious Box of Photographs Inspires a Globe-Trotting Art Show
East meets West in an art show that began with a collection of photos found at an estate sale 27 years ago.
Skateboarders Grapple with Adulthood in New Documentary ‘Minding the Gap’
A new film looks at skateboarding as an escape from violence and boredom for three friends in Rockford, Illinois. We speak with director Bing Liu.
Chicago Band Ohmme a ‘Force to be Reckoned With’
Soaring harmonies and grinding guitars combine on a new record by a dynamic Chicago duo. We visit the basement headquarters of Ohmme.
Chicago Jazz Festival Expands to Neighborhoods for 40th Anniversary
The Chicago Jazz Fest is expanding its scope and reach. We discuss what’s new – and what to expect this weekend – with Mark Kelly, commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Stony Island Arts Bank Remembers Historic Johnson Publishing Company
An exhibition conveys the role of the publishers of Ebony and Jet magazines in spreading the word on black culture from their onetime offices at 820 S. Michigan Ave.
At the Art Institute, the Opulent Paintings of John Singer Sargent
Chicago museums and collectors played a critical role in the life of an American artist with an international profile. We take a look at the spectacular paintings of John Singer Sargent.
Checking Out the Menu at Chicago’s New US Pizza Museum
An appetizing new museum just opened in Chicago. We check out the collection of a curator with a craving.
Meet Ada Grey, the Veteran Chicago Theater Critic Who is Almost in High School
She’s been on the scene for 10 years – and just turned 14 years old. Ada Grey tells us about her experiences as a Chicago theater critic.
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art ‘Lions’ Exhibit Taps into Its Roots
Inside a new exhibition that looks at the art and legacy of the founding fathers of the museum.
3 Years After Tragedy, Mother Motivated to Strengthen ‘Annie’s Law’
A change in state law will ensure first responders are equipped with EpiPens. Meet the mother of the girl who inspired the legislation.
