Free McCormick Place Art Collection. McCormick Place has a new app called Marty (which I’ll cover in a later post after I test it). While checking out the app I discovered that McCormick Place has an art collection (the app contains a link to a pdf). Who knew? How you get access to it is another matter.
Where: McCormick Place, 2301 South Lake Shore Drive, (312) 791-7000 press 3 for security.
Here’s what the website says:
Viewing Hours: The Art Collection is available for viewing by those attending events held at McCormick Place. Requests for individual and group tours by the public will be considered on the basis of availability only, as portions of the buildings may be closed during scheduled events.
They give an email address to contact but it doesn’t work! After a big cluster you know what of emailing I couldn’t get any answers so I would not recommend just going over there. You should be able to get access during the Chicago Auto Show Feb. 10-19, 2018. Link to discount tickets here.
Here’s what security says:
I called security several times and was told: when a convention is going on at McCormick Place you can enter the buildings and view the bulk of the art collection, most of which, is located outside the Convention Center rooms. No admission fee required. OR when the building opens daily between 6AM-9AM anyone can enter and also view the collection. I haven’t tried either of these yet. would not recommend just going over there. YMMV.
The Collection
The collection is made up of more than 100 commissioned pieces of artwork in the South and West Buildings. Thirty Chicago and Illinois artists created 50 original works for the West Building. There are more than 70 contemporary works from around the world are in the South Building. McCormick Place Art Collection Collection
North and South Buildings, West Building and Lakeside Center Giant PDF entire facility
McCormick Place is comprised of 2.6 million square feet in four buildings. They’re connected via concourses and bridges. If you arrive via Metra Electric you will be on Level 2.5 in the South Building. The CTA Green Line stops a few blocks west of West Building. The CTA # 3 King Drive bus stops east of the West Building near the Hyatt Regency. Take Uber to 2301 S. King Drive. I wouldn’t wander around this area at night.
