It’s been a long time coming, but the Alsdorf Galleries and Galleries of Indian and Islamic Art will open to the public on Saturday, December 13th, at the Art Institute.
After more than a year of construction (and a new design by Renzo Piano) the galleries feature the Institute’s extensive collection of Indian, Southeast Asian, Himalayan and Islamic art. Though one of the largest collections around, the items have never been displayed all together because of space constraints.
Centuries of artistic expression are reflected in the 435 pieces on display, showing the diversity of cultures and religions in the area.
The new galleries are situated to form a bridge between Eastern and Western art, and were designed to be a clean, light-filled space with views of Millennium Park and the city.
The changes are just another part of the museum’s ongoing renovation project.
