Hello Art Lover's, it's 2nd Friday, and Valentine's Day! 

So, you say you don't like Valentines Day? Too commercial, too passe, a Hallmark Holiday. Think about this... the future Patron Saint of Love, Young People, Happy Marriages, Bee Keepers, and Lovers, lost his head on February 14th, in the year 269 at the hands of Claudius II. His crime you ask? Performing marriages for Christian couples, a serious crime of the day!

It wasn't until Pope Gelasius celebrated Valentine on February 14th, 496AD, that his efforts as a martyr were recognized, making Valentine a Saint. Poor Valentine!! He waited hundreds of years to be recognized for his commitment to Love. Don't keep your Valentine waiting, bring em' to 2nd Fridays, they'll "love" the work of our great crop of artists! No Valentine in your life? Come anyway, you never know when you might be pierced by Cupid's arrow!

NOT BORING ART examines love and life in the new show, Where there is Love, there is Life; New World Cartographic shares the romance of Wine Maps, Cheese and Chocolate Maps, yum!; Soham Dance Space invites you in to dance; Ground Level Platform presents Hold Space; Chicago Vintage Posters takes us back in time, sharing the beauty of this historic art form; and the CAD North Gallery presentsCyborgs.   

Keep reading, there's plenty of detail below on the shows of Chicago Art Department, NOT BORING ART, Elko Hardwoods, Fresh Frances, New World Cartographic, the Children's Museum of Art & Social Justice, Chicago Vintage Maps, Soham Dance, Mary Lou Stewart, Ground Level Platform and more.

After you've checked out the studios and galleries, be sure to show some support to our other local creatives. Pilsen East is home to several artisan haunts for food and drink, Pleasant House Pub, Del Toro and DeColores are all within a block or two of the studios and galleries, and many more options abound along 18th Street. 

2nd Fridays in the Chicago Arts District - February 14th, 2020, the studios and galleries open their doors from 6-10pm. Pick up a map and begin your self-guided walking tour at the Info Center, 1945 S. Halsted St., Chicago.

Culture, great food & drink, and  fun with your besties? Don't miss out!