A few years ago, my granddaughter and I shared the joy of a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago.
It was a cold day in Chicago. We rode in from the suburbs on what was once the Chicago and Northwestern commuter railroad, an interesting experience in itself. Looking around us, we could see that most riders were on their way to work. Unlike them, we were headed to town for a cultural experience.
High on my Institute agenda was a visit to "America Windows" by Russian/French artist Marc Chagall.
The Art Institute of Chicago - (click photo for credit)
After purchasing our museum tickets and checking our coats,
we headed up the Grand Staircase, through the Alsdorf Galleries, and towards the back of the Rubloff Building to where "America Windows" is on display.
Chagall Exhibit Location in the Institute
Map Excerpt from Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute is vast.
It exists in many buildings and on multiple levels. Although I wore my granddaughter out in the course of about four hours that day, I consider the Institute worthy of an entire day or more of your time.
A Flight of the Art Institute "Grand Staircase" - (click image for credit)
After walking a considerable distance,
we finally saw the America Windows far ahead, and eventually made our way over to them. The windows are installed in an otherwise darkened area in order to best reveal their beauty.
To give you a sense of the scale of these stained glass window panels,
here is a photo of a family of three standing in front of and admiring the right-most panel. The windows are backlit, filling the viewing area with a lovely and calming, predominantly blue light.
A Family Views America Windows
Credit: Brenna Swift
"America Windows" portrays elements of American cultural and religious freedom.
They were created by Chagall as a gift to the city, and first unveiled at the Institute in 1977. Although my granddaughter had somewhat less patience, I would have gladly stood for an hour before each panel, meditating on each incorporated element.
There are three separate window panels, arranged side by side as shown below.
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Chagall's America Windows - (click photos for credit)
Between 2005 and 2010,
the windows were removed for an intensive study aimed at their archival preservation. Apparently, they had become coated with a dull film emanating from the materials holding the glass segments together. The restoration was successful and the windows now occupy a place of honor once again.
Let's have a closer look at America Windows.
The Left Panel
celebrates Chicago and America's rich musical rhythm and blues history. It contains people playing various instruments, floating guitars, and fiddles.
Note: If you click on any of the three window images, you can go to the photographer's http://flickr.com page and find a full-sized copy of the image.
Chagall's America Windows; Left Panel - (click photo for credit)
The Center Panel
expresses hope for unity and peace, with images of a candle, a dove, and an olive branch.
Chagall's America Windows; Center Panel - (click photo for credit)
The Right Panel
cherishes America's tradition of religious freedom. Angelic figures, a colorful cathedral window, and a menorah are displayed along with individuals of different ethnic backgrounds.
Chagall's America Windows; Right Pane - (click photo for credit)
The Story Behind "America Windows"
If you care to watch this video, you can learn more of the history, creation, conservation, and reinstallation of Chagall's beautiful "America Windows" at the Art Institute of Chicago.
If you have a chance to visit the Art Institute,
take it! And don't miss Chagall's beautiful "American Windows."
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