Near North Side

The Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Arts

1012 N. Dearborn St.

Fine Arts

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Saturday

10am - 5pm

Sunday

10am - 5pm

Accessibility & Amenities

  • Family Friendly
  • Photography Allowed
  • Restrooms Available

Year Completed

1876

DETAILS:

This historic Italianate mansion was built in 1876 as a residence for the William Waller family, who acquired the property from George Dunlap, an executive with the Northwestern Railroad. The Wallers built in a neighborhood that had been destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. By the time the Palette & Chisel acquired the property in 1921, it had become a rooming house for musicians, nurses, milliners, and others. The first floor features two renovated gallery rooms, a stunning dining room and a library and kitchen area that now displays a permanent art collection. The second floor houses several private studios and a drawing studio. The third floor is for painters, providing great natural light for up to 20 artists at a time. The coach house has several private studios and a sculpture studio. The courtyard and front of the building feature lovingly restored gardens.

VISITOR EXPERIENCE:

A P&C members' exhibition will feature Chicago scenes, and several members will be painting, drawing, and sculpting in open studio sessions. Many of the private studio renters will open their studios to the public for self-guided exploration.

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