Art Institute of Chicago

Nestled in downtown Chicago, IL is the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the city. The Art Institute of Chicago houses a global collection of art in various mediums. The lawyers of Salvi Schostok & Pritchard are proud of the cultural heritage of our fine city and love to share it with our clients.

Art Institute of Chicago

History of the Art Institute of Chicago 

The Art Institute of Chicago was founded in 1879, making it one of the oldest art museums in the United States. It is also one of the largest art museums in the country with collections curated by 11 independent departments and 300,000 regular works of art. The Art Institute of Chicago also has a conservation science department, five conservation laboratories, and an art history and architecture library. 

7 Things You May Not Know About the Art Institute of Chicago

While the Art Institute of Chicago is a cultural icon of the city, some of the lesser-known facts about it are:

  • The Roof Over the Pritzker Garden is Known as the “Flying Carpet” to Museum Insiders. 

The roof appears to float in seemingly thin air, which gives it this quaint name.

  • The Atrium Exists Because the Art Institute Was Broke.

While the atrium is now perceived as one of the most beautiful aspects of the art institute, there was originally supposed to be a dome. The Art Institute ran out of money to construct it, so there is now an open atrium instead. 

  • The Japanese Pavilion Panels Used to Be Under the Seats at Soldier Field.

The horizontal panels that flank the entrance to the Ando Gallery were originally part of the Japanese Pavilion from the 1893 Columbian Exposition. They were formerly below the seats at Soldier Field, but they’ve been at the institute for several years now. 

  • The Chicago Stock Exchange Room Is a Recreation. 

While the Chicago Stock Exchange Room looks real, most of it is just a recreation. 

  • The Ando Gallery Is Modeled After Traditional Japanese Architecture.

The Ando Gallery includes 16 columns, which is a traditional element of Japanese architecture. This is supposed to help visitors feel peaceful and soothed.

  • The Art Institute Is Very Green. 

While the Art Institute is about 150 years old, it currently uses tons of green technology, including windows and lights that are programmed to maximize energy. 

  • There Is More to Be Revealed.

A few paintings above the auditorium stage have not yet been uncovered. 

Directions to Salvi Schostok & Pritchard

The Art Institute of Chicago is located at 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 just one mile from the law firm of Salvi Schostok & Pritchard. To get to our firm from the Art Institute of Chicago:

Head north on S Michigan Ave toward E Adams St. Use the left two lanes to turn left onto E Randolph St. Turn right onto N LaSalle St. Turn right at the first cross street onto W Lake St. Turn right at the first cross street onto N Clark St. Salvi Schostok & Pritchard, P.C. will be on the left at 161 N. Clark Street, Suite 4700, Chicago, Illinois 60601.

If you have any trouble finding our office, contact us today.