Chicago Exhibition Week Has Launched
The citywide event features over 40 galleries and institutions with special programming and art installations.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Fine Art
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Contemporary art platform Gertie has launched Chicago Exhibition Week, a citywide event showcasing more than 40 galleries and creative institutions. The program includes performances, art installations, and specific incentives to encourage local art discovery.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to bolster the local art scene by attracting both collectors and casual art lovers to various districts. By poking fun at traditional gallery culture, the organizers hope to make the creative sector more accessible to the public.
The week features more than 40 galleries and creative institutions throughout the city. Suggested collector price points for available works range from $200 to $20,000.
The players
Gertie
This is a contemporary art platform that serves as the primary organizer for the citywide exhibition.
Museum of Contemporary Art
This major institution is partnering with the event to offer free admission to visitors who frequent smaller galleries.
The details
Visitors can collect stickers by visiting four different galleries to earn free admission to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Programming also includes the production 82 Nights Only, which explores themes alongside various visual art installations.
Timeline
Chicago Exhibition Week kickoff events began on September 17, 2026.
The citywide exhibition week concludes on September 20, 2026.
The 82 Nights Only production runs through December 13, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The exhibition week follows the model established by the Armory Show, emphasizing gallery-hopping as a primary way to increase institutional visibility. This trend reflects a broader shift toward community-based art events intended to boost local gallery attendance.
Visitors who collect stickers from four participating galleries receive free entry to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Most of these gallery shows will remain visible to the public throughout the fall and into next year.
The takeaway
Collectors and art enthusiasts can use this week to explore dozens of venues while benefiting from coordinated museum access. The event serves as a practical entry point for those looking to engage with local artists beyond the standard gallery schedule.
Further reading
Learn more about local visual arts trends in our Fine Art section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
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