Art Chicago, the annual gathering of international modern and contemporary art galleries at The Merchandise Mart, is, as one would imagine, a people-watching goldmine. Art curators, collectors, artists, gallery owners and other creative types from around the world congregate in Chicago from Friday, May 1 through Monday, May 4, making our city the center of the art universe for four days. Once the gallery shows close, here's where the beautiful people will be partying.
Savvy, sexy fashion mag Factio is teaming up with hot Fulton Market lounge Lumen to host "Art Rocks," the official Art Chicago after-party from 7-10PM on Friday, May 1. Works by local artists, including Michael Brucks, SIN-R8, Edyta Stepien, STOPTIME341 Productions and M5, will be on display throughout the visually stimulating space, while specialty Corzo Tequila cocktails make the rounds. Factio has gathered an A-list host committee for the event, including editor Melissa Maynard, publisher Henrique Kerch, fashion designers Cynthia Rowley and Claudia Kleiner, socialite Candace Jordan, jewelry designer Tracey Mayer, artist Christine Sanderson and Elite model Kasia Koniar. An RSVP is required to attend.
Speaking of Chicago's very own Cynthia Rowley, she is going to be very busy during the Art Chicago festivities. In addition to taking part in a one-on-one discussion with artist Nick Cave from 4-5PM on Friday during the Art Chicago seminar series, Rowley is also hosting a party that evening from 6-8PM in her Wicker Park boutique (1653 N. Damen Ave.). The fundraising event will benefit RxArt, a nonprofit group that provides children's hospitals with contemporary artwork. Rowley will be in attendance at the soiree, styling guests and signing copies of her book. Party-goers will also receive discounts on purchases made throughout the evening. RSVP to 212-242-0847 or publicrelations@cynthiarowley.com.
The arty parties don't stop on Saturday. The official Art Chicago after-party on May 2 will take place from 10-11PM at JBar in the chic James Hotel, a high-profile sponsor of the fair. The fashionable fete is open to all, and guests can flash their Art Chicago black passes for complimentary ARTini cocktails. DJ-of-the-moment Rock City will set the high-energy tone with his signature mix of pop, hip-hop and old school beats.
