HOPE Comes to Chicago, and All Eyes on KM

Last night was thankfully not like our dreary day today. It was mild and pleasant for the unveiling of SAIC grad Robert Indiana's HOPE sculpture that will be placed outside of the John Hancock Center, on the northeast corner of Michigan and Delaware until about Valentine's Day 2012.  KM Fine Arts directors Anna Hollinger and Tom Kivisto welcomed the group and celebrated the fact that this sculpture will no doubt become a fixture of the public's art engagement during the next few months. Crowds of visitors will be taking pictures with and around this uplifting installation. 

The artist could not attend the opening after all, as he has been ill the past few months.  The 2,000 lb + installation was there in his place.  HOPE has travelled to other art institutions and destinations around the country so far, and the 'hope' is that some day it will end up in the Smithsonian.  So just in case you're wondering, it's also not for sale. 

Following the unveiling, there was a lovely reception for the gallery's Eyes Wide Shut exhibition on the 25th floor of the Hancock.  The exhibition features European Masters, as well as work by contemporary Spanish artist Lita Cabellut, whose large-scale portraits crackle with drama and intensity. 

The gallery is hosting a second reception this Saturday evening in honor of SOFA.  The public is invited to attend to enjoy drinks and food from 6-9pm.  Free trolleys will take you there from SOFA (Entrance 2 at Navy Pier) and the MCA (220 E Chicago) from 5-7pm.