On November 28, Springboard Arts Chicago will open its new 4,500-square-foot gallery to the public with a premiere exhibition titled “Illuminate,” shining a light on the power of art during challenging times. Showcasing the works of 15 of Springboard Arts’ extensive roster of artists, including mixed media artist Paul Branton, photographer Gail Mancuso, and sculptor Peter Zelle, the opening follows the launch of Springboard Arts’ website (SpringboardArts.com) earlier this year.
Visitors to the new gallery, located in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood at 1910 W. North Ave., will find a design-forward, inviting space that encourages exploration and engagement with ample opportunities to take in the exhibition, enjoy gallery amenities, discover new works, and even meet the artists.
“Art has the power to uplift and inspire. ‘Illuminate’ embraces hope and the capability and resiliency we possess as humans, while our gallery seeks to set a new standard in the art-buying experience,” said Springboard Arts Chicago CEO and President Donna Van Eekeren.
Along with Van Eekeren, the dynamic, all-female team at Springboard Arts is comprised of Ann Foley, vice president of operations; Ashley Freeland Miller, visual director; and Tara Jewell, marketing director. Together, the team’s commitment to advance art and artists is inherent in every aspect of Springboard Arts, as evidenced in the gallery’s representation of diverse talent and wide range of work.
Springboard Arts’ new gallery provides a flexible, creative space that in many ways is its own blank canvas, allowing patrons to interact and explore with the art on their own terms. Designed by Freeland Miller, who also serves as owner and principal of AFM Architect, the gallery delivers a modern, well-appointed, and adaptable physical environment that enhances the gallery experience, encouraging contemplation and interaction.
Design details provide a myriad of options to thoughtfully highlight and showcase a variety of art, while lounging areas throughout the space allow patrons to feel at home, relaxing with a refreshment or a cup of coffee from one of the two in-house coffee bars.
“Our mission for the design was to create a unique gallery space where everyone feels welcome, from first-time art buyers looking to explore the world of art, to seasoned collectors, to designers with a passionate vision for their clients. This concept drove the design, resulting in a gallery that embraces exploration, choice, connection and comfort−all while remaining a high-end experience for each visitor,” said Freeland Miller.
The gallery’s door-opening exhibition, “Illuminate,” further elevates Springboard Arts’ mission of sharing the power of art. In naming their inaugural show, the Springboard Arts team found themselves inspired by the notion that art can bring light to people’s lives during challenging times, but also by art’s unique ability to shed light on varying perspectives and concepts. The list of artists showcased in the exhibition include:
● David Gista
● Peter Zelle
● Gail Mancuso
● Paul Branton
● Frank Hyder
● Ed Hinkley
● JT Thompson
● Yvette Kaiser Smith
● Kathie Shaw
● Susan Hall
● David Kogan
● Judit Csotsits
● Roberta Miles
● Laurie Shaman
● Debra Disman
“Chicago is one of the top arts-vibrant cities in the country. We welcome our neighbors, collectors, art enthusiasts and Chicago’s active cultural community to our new gallery to see the works of the enormously talented artists we represent, some of whom are emerging or being represented for the first time,” said Van Eekeren.
Springboard Arts will be hosting its public grand opening on Small Business Saturday, November 28, with strict adherence to Chicago COVID-19 guidelines. Plans also call for a special sneak peek for Wicker Park residents on November 27 from noon-4 p.m. For those eager to visit Springboard Arts prior to the public opening, one-hour appointments can be made with the gallery beginning November 16. Masks are required.
“Illuminate” will run from November 28 to January 17.
ABOUT SPRINGBOARD ARTS CHICAGO
Springboard Arts Chicago is a new, female-led art gallery in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. With a belief that art has the ability to uplift people and spaces, Springboard Arts fosters an inclusive environment where both novice and experienced art buyers can explore and engage with artwork created by unrepresented and emerging artists. Through immersive experiences and expansive offerings both in-gallery and online, Springboard Arts is committed to elevating the availability of art by ensuring an open and warm experience for clients and gallery visitors. The gallery is located at 1910 W. North Ave. in Chicago. For more information, visit springboardarts.com.