Chicago, then and now

Art Business News, August, 2004

CHICAGO-On display at the Kisho Kurokawa Gallery of Architecture are the Chicagos that might have been. That is, "Unbuilt Chicago," which features more than 90 drawings, plans and models of architectural projects in Chicago that were never built, ranging from the 1880s to present day. Some notable architects include Dankmar Adler, Daniel Burnham, Alfonso Iannelli, Louis Sullivan and Harry Weese.

"Unbuilt Chicago" examines the relationship between architect, building and city with design being subject to the many constraints of the environment. It gives viewers a chance to see what architects dreamed of and created on paper, but never grew to fruition because of the complexities of building restraints. The architectural plans have been revived and put into light with contrasting colors and special lighting effects in the gallery.

"Unbuilt Chicago" highlights some experimental projects that were intended to explore new ideas and spur debate, defining the conflict between the permanent nature of buildings and the ever-changing needs of society. An example is Reginald Malcolmson who created the concept of the "Expanding Skyscraper." The idea included additions to be constructed over time to the existing skyscraper as the desires of society grew. This architectural illustration was never meant to be built but was created to shed light on the issues with the changing needs of society and the non-altering ability of present standing skyscrapers.

For additional information, contact the Art Institute of Chicago at (312) 443-3600 or visit www.artic.edu.