EXPO CHICAGO 2026 In Review 🌟
With 130+ galleries and nearly 35,000 visitors, this year’s fair—led by Kate Sierzputowski (@k8sierz ) and Essence Harden (@essenceh )—delivered a more focused and intentional experience that continues to position Chicago as a leading force in the art world.
Highlights included curated sections, Focus by Katie A. Pfohl (@kapfohl ), Profile by Essence Harden (@essenceh ), and Embodiment by Dr. Louise Bernard (@louisebernard_of ) in addition to the launch of EXPO Projects in collaboration with non-profits and institutions including a major partnership with the Obama Presidential Center (@obamafoundation ), previewing artwork by commissioned artists ahead of its June 2026 opening.
From standout panels on the Dialogues and Exchange Stage to major museum acquisitions through prizes, the fair celebrated artists, collaboration, and the city’s transformational cultural landscape.
Presented by @northerntrustwealth
—
Images: Casey Kelbaugh/CKA
Step inside Chicago through Faheem Majeed’s eyes—from his studio practice to the spaces shaping community, history, and culture on the South Side.
🔗 Tap the link in bio to read the full feature, Around Town, and continue exploring EXPO ART WEEK.
—
Photography by Lyndon French (@_lyndonfrench_ )
The Obama Presidential Center (OPC) depicts Chicago’s political and creative life in art-words by Denny Mwaura.
Unlike other presidential centers, the OPC’s novelty lies in its artist commissions-emblematic of Chicago’s rich political and creative life.
The museum doesn’t just tell the story of the Obamas and their values; it illustrates how the creative arts serve as a vital means of communing with others and with our shared history. Not a “time capsule” or a monument to a “great man,” as Louise Bernard, the Founding Obama Presidential Center Museum Director (@louisebernard_of ), notes, but a civic hub that tells the story of everyday people.
Missed the limited EXPO ART WEEK issue? You can still read the full feature at the link in bio!
—
1. Richard Hunt in the studio. Photo by Lawrence Agyei.
Courtesy the Obama Foundation.
2. Idris Khan, Andrews Road Studio. Courtesy the artist.
3. Contact sheets from The Black Image Corporation, a project by Theaster Gates. Fondazione Prada Osservatorio.
Photo by Delfino Sisto Legnani and Marco Cappelletti.
Courtesy Theaster Gates Studio and Fondazione Prada.
4. Installation of Julie Mehretu’s commissioned work, an 83-foot tall painted glass window titled Uprising of the Sun, Chicago, September 7, 2024. Courtesy the Obama Foundation.
“I share with THIRD BORN a love for Chicago—its architecture, its artists, its political and social histories, music, design—there’s an unmistakable materiality and way of communicating in form that I adore. I’m hyped to be there.” —Sidony O’Neal
EXPO CHICAGO curator Essence Harden (@essenceh ) speaks to Sidony O’Neal (@sidony_oneal ) on showing up experimental, unusual, and specific.
Forgot to pick up your copy of the limited EXPO ART WEEK? You’re in luck—read the feature at the link in bio.
EXPO CHICAGO 2026 has now closed 🪅
Thanks to everyone who joined us over four days at Navy Pier—to experience leading contemporary art from around the world alongside a dynamic program of talks and performances.
Until next year! ✨
—
Images: Casey Kelbaugh/CKA
From around the world to EXPO CHICAGO 🌍
Where art lovers come together for an unforgettable experience. Before you head out, make a stop at the Turkish Airlines Lounge ✈️
Thanks to our partner Turkish Airlines
—
Images: Casey Kelbaugh/CKA
Last chance to experience EXPO CHICAGO 2026🚨
End your weekend with world-class art and unforgettable moments at Navy Pier.
Open today from 11:00AM–6:00PM, last entry at 5:30PM.
Skip the line and grab your tickets now at the link in bio.
—
Images: Casey Kelbaugh Associates
The @lexususa and @alex.alpert collaboration is taking linework off the page and into the real world with the Lexus IS 350 at EXPO CHICAGO!
#LexusAtExpoChicago #SketchToStreet
Visit the Heritage Auctions lounge at EXPO CHICAGO
Stop by for a preview of something 250 years in the making and discover our upcoming Modern & Contemporary Art auction, now available to explore online at ha.com/8259
Our team is on-site all weekend. Come say hello, connect, and learn more.
—
Photos by Sarah Joyce/CKA
The Sherman Acquisition Award has been announced!
🏆 Elle Pérez from 47 Canal
🏆 Sadie Barnette from @jessicasilvermangallery
For acquisition by The Bronx Museum (@bronxmuseum ) and supported by Michael Sherman, Carrie Tivador, and the Sherman Family Foundation, these works were selected from the Profile section, curated by @essenceh .
TASCHEN is back at EXPO CHICAGO! 📚
Explore bold, beautiful books on art, architecture, design, film, lifestyle, travel, and more.
—
Photo: Sarah Joyce / CKA
