Just as Obama brought Chicago to the forefront of politics, the opening of the Modern Wing at the Art Institute cements our place in the upper echelon of preeminent art cities.
A decade in the making, the breathtaking 264,000 square foot wing contains extensive collections of modern and contemporary art, painting, sculpture, architecture, design and photography. It also makes the Art Institute the second largest art museum in the U.S.
Opening day festivities began Friday at 10 a.m. with a ribbon cutting, and continues throughout the day with performances and lectures.
Insider Info: Stop by on your lunch hour for the right to drop the "Oh yeah, the new Modern Wing? I've been there, it's fabulous" line. Admission to the museum will be free the first week of the Modern Wing's opening (May 16-22). Check out a full list of grand opening activities.
Rachael Scholten is a contributing writer for TheChiGuide.com.
