The Art of Play: Chicago

The centerpiece of this summer’s “Art of Play” in Chicago, “Niki in the Garden” exhibits over 30 fanciful sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle at The Garfield Park Conservatory. Internationally renowned for her interpretation of the female form in her Nanas sculptures, her works at the Conservatory include mythical creatures, figures from pop culture, and even a certain former player for the Chicago Bulls. Rather than view her works at arms-length, visitors will be encouraged to sit and climb on the sculptures. The Conservatory is well worth a visit on a nice weekend during the summer, and a public exhibition nicely reinforces the community emphasis at Garfield Park. A few years ago, the Dale Chihuly exhibition at The Conservatory was well executed, and it is great to see Chicago continue to develop accessible cultural resources.