New exhibit at Elmhurst Art Museum showcases works by Salvador Dali and Mies van de Rohe

The Elmhurst Art Museum is set to showcase its summer exhibition titled “Legacies: Selections from the Elmhurst Art Museum Permanent Collection.” This exhibition will feature a wide range of artists, from renowned figures like Salvador Dali and Mies van der Rohe to contemporary artists like Kay Rosen and Michiko Itatani.

This group exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the Elmhurst Art Museum’s permanent collection. By delving into the relationships between artists, collectors, and museums, the exhibition uncovers larger narratives that connect people across different times and places. Curated by the museum’s team, “Legacies: Selections from the Elmhurst Art Museum Permanent Collection” will be on display from May 31 to August 17 at the museum’s location on 150 South Cottage Hill Ave in Elmhurst.

Allison Peters Quinn, the executive director and chief curator of the Elmhurst Art Museum, highlighted the significance of community support in building museum collections. She emphasized the role of collectors who have generously donated their treasured artworks to the museum, shaping its story through their contributions. Quinn also raised thought-provoking questions about the relationships between collectors and their collections, sparking a broader conversation on the motivations behind collecting objects.

The Elmhurst Art Museum’s collection, focused on 20th-century American art and midcentury design, has grown significantly since its inception in the 1990s. With around 1,000 works sourced from over 200 donors and collections, the museum’s collection highlights the creativity of Midwestern artists, architects, and designers. From modern and contemporary artworks to furniture designs associated with the McCormick House, the collection reflects a diverse range of artistic expressions.

Visitors to the exhibition can expect to see micro installations of paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures drawn from various collections donated to the museum. These artworks, featuring local, regional, national, and international artists, offer insights into the nature of collecting and the motivations behind specific acquisitions.

In addition to the exhibition, the museum will host a series of engaging programs, including music performances, film screenings, talks, and tours. These programs aim to explore different aspects of collecting practices and provide inspiration for individuals looking to start their own collections.

One of the highlights of the summer will be a solo exhibition by Chicago-based artist Bernard Williams, titled “CROSSINGS.” This exhibition will feature outdoor vehicle sculptures in Wilder Park, an airplane sculpture in the Hostetler Gallery, and large paintings in the McCormick House. Curated by Allison Peters Quinn, “CROSSINGS” will run alongside the “Legacies” exhibition until August 17.

The Elmhurst Art Museum invites art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a summer filled with creativity, exploration, and inspiration. With a diverse range of artworks on display and a variety of accompanying programs, visitors can expect a vibrant and enriching experience at the museum.