I’ve been enjoying the virtual aspects of my art-viewing experience the past few months. People got a little experimental; they had to think outside of the box to get folks to view work. I, by no means, plan to attend opening receptions or risk my health to commute around the city to check out art on a wall, but now that physical spaces are reopening I will travel to a gallery or two to see a show if proper regulations are put into place (like I did with Western Exhibitions).
Dank Haus Gallery The German American Cultural Center Gallery is having its first public event with the Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists (CAVA) since the pandemic started. “Urban Lives/Social Fabric” will open with the theme of how artists cope, view, and emotionally traverse turbulent times. The artists involved in the group show focus on the city’s industry, Chicago neighborhoods, festivals, and the diversity that make up the city. The opening of the reception will adhere to strict mask requirements and hand sanitizing stations. Located in the heart of Lincoln Square, the gallery requires visitors to RSVP to the exhibition’s two reception sessions, which are Fri 7/24, 5 PM-6 PM and 6:30 PM-8 PM.
John McKinnon, the executive director of the museum, explains that while they were closed, the museum regularly checked in with other organizations, reviewed CDC guidelines, and watched the reopening of other museums around the world. “We were prepared when Phase four protocol came out,” he says, “and opened just after other businesses in our immediate area.” The museum stayed busy during the pandemic, says McKinnon. During their closure, they created a new outlet called, “Museum From Home,” which included activities, charities, yard-sign campaigns, online talks, and a special Pride Month activity guide. “We plan to continue our ‘Museum From Home’ activities after reopening, which will provide in-person and remote possibilities to respond to our current exhibits,” says McKinnon.
