Culturally Centered
I love books, and had once spent many pleasurable hours thumbing through hundreds
of volumes in this great, old library building.
& Artwork: designslinger]
When I say old, I guess I really should say former, because this amazing structure is
no longer the home of the Chicago Public Library. Over 30 years ago, the library had outgrown its space in this 1897 gem. A new facility had to be built and the old one demolished. Yes, you read that correctly, Mayor Daley the 1st planned on tearing down this "outdated, white elephant." Supposedly, (this may be an urban myth) when the Mayor's wife Sis Daley told her husband "No!" over dinner one evening, the building was saved, renovated and turned into a Cultural Arts Center.
The Italian Renaissance inspired styling found throughout the building is a testament
to the genius of the design team at the architectural firm of Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge, as well as the craftsmen who expertly created the beautiful decoration in plaster, stone, marble and gilding.
The beautiful 40 foot diameter dome was constructed by the local Chicago decorating
and glass making firm, Healy & Millet.
If you head over to the south side of the building, you will find another significant work
in glass and lead. This one was designed by the Tiffany Glass & Decorating Company under the supervision of Louis Comfort Tiffany. At 38 feet in diameter, with 2,848 pieces of glass, the dome is believed to be the largest undertaking in the history of the company. Tiffany was also responsible for the millions of shimmering pieces of favrile mosaics. The hallmark of the Company's patented process is the luminescent quality of each tiny, individual piece of glass, which makes for one spectacularly, sparkling experience.
Posted by designslinger at 9/21/2009 2:45 AM 
Categories: Architecture,Preservation,History,Decorative Arts
Tags: Louis Comfort Tiffany Chicago Cultural Center
Categories: Architecture,Preservation,History,Decorative Arts
Tags: Louis Comfort Tiffany Chicago Cultural Center
This is my #1 favorite place to visit in all Chicago.
1. IT'S FREE. No admission charge.
2. Beautiful architectural details as shown in your photos. It's a pretty big building and there's plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.
3. Great art galleries. There's about four or five different art galleries with a great variety of work from conceptual postmodern to photojournalism to everything in between. You won't find as many big name artists as the Art Institute across the street, but the art is always current and fresh with an emphasis on the local scene.
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There are also the events held in the Claudia Cassidy Theatre, as well as the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts on Wednesdays at lunch time. And, as you said, it's all FREE!
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The first time I beheld its interior, I was an adult and it knocked my socks off!! I was reminded of some glorious sites from my childhood. It must've been a fabulous experience as a child to sit in this spot and read. And to think it's now free for all to enjoy! What was RJD thinking!! Thank you, Sis Daley!
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Thank you, indeed!
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