Are you looking for something to give your house or apartment a unique touch? Are you looking for…read morean unexpected housewarming, birthday, anniversary, or wedding gift? Why not consider buying a piece of art? And I am not talking about going to Target or Walmart and buying one of those generic, made a million of 'em, mass-produced posters or "printed" paintings. I am talking about going to Project Onward, on the fourth floor at the Bridgeport Art Center, and selecting from thousands of one-of-a-kind paintings, ceramic sculptures, and drawings. Project Onward is an amazing studio and gallery where they give artists with mental and developmental disabilities a "visual voice" to tell their stories and change the perceptions of the world. Their non-profit studio is inclusive, and they embrace artists with a wide range of life experiences. Some are self-taught artists who have Autism, while some are formally trained artists who have bipolar disorder. There are other artists with challenges that are equally complex. However, all of them willingly explore the innermost recesses of their minds to create powerful works of art. Most of the Project Onward artists live on low incomes and cannot afford to pay for studio space, or purchase supplies. So there is no cost for them to be a part of Project Onward. Many of their artists have received accolades for artistic excellence. Artwork created in their Chicago studio has been widely exhibited, and can be found in private, and corporate collections throughout the world. Project Onward's studio and gallery is a beehive of creative activity. The artists are friendly and delighted to see visitors interested in their creations. Volunteer guides are at hand to show you the artwork available for purchase, or you can just flip through the art bins at your leisure. There is so much incredible artwork to choose from--and most of it is affordably-priced. My husband and I recently spent a fun and engaging afternoon there, chatting with the artists and volunteers--and we found the perfect housewarming gift of art for a friend. When you purchase a piece of art from Project Onward, you're helping support a good cause, and you get something unique and beautiful to have or to give. I highly recommend supporting Project Onward, and treating yourself or a loved one to the gift of art!!

I ended up at the Cultural Center today and stumbled upon the Project Onward studio + gallery on my…read moreway out. WOW, what an amazing place! The artwork is unique to each artist - many focus on a certain theme or style. I was admiring an awesome Jimi Hendrix piece on the wall (sadly, far out of my price range) when the artist greeted me and told me more about his work and how he got started. His focus is memorial portraits, which he began 7 years ago after experiencing a loss of a family member who was close to him. I felt touched that he shared his story and passion with me. There is definitely something in everyone's price range - many $10, $20, and $35 pieces (many on corrugated cardboard - interesting!). Others were in the hundreds, like the Hendrix piece I was admiring. I ended up going back and picking up a $20 Chicago-themed piece for my new apartment. 70% of sales go back to the artist. As another reviewer said, you also see some artists at work. Their stations are seemingly as unique as the artwork. The artist who uses glitter...wow! Loved that station! I spoke with one of the managers on my return trip today, and he said they have around 40 artists. I'm looking forward to telling some of my students about Project Onward as well. Overall a very positive place focused on community and art appreciation.

LVL3's professionalism and openings are constantly on the rise. Openings usually held on Saturday…read moreevenings--are well attended and booze is provided. With a corner of the gallery now designated as a book shop, LVL3 has yet again shown its ability to maintain a steady flow of artwork and followers of its events.

Gif shop at the Cultural Center which carries some unique items. They have ceramics, books,…read moreposters, bags, and so on. They had some Chicago Jazz Festival t-shirts since the festival is held across the street. When I was here in December 2023, they had totes made by migrants and you could purchase one ($28) or bring a smartphone from 2017 or later to get one.

Not to be missed! Large giftshop with lots of commodities from local artists, from small items like…read morestickers and pins, to soap, tea, prints etc

Kit & Wrap's opening in Lakeview might just be the best thing about 2020! The owner, Ashley,…read morewrapped our gifts beautifully, and she even shipped them. (That's right, East Lakeview -- shipping!!) The turnaround time was very fast; all our gifts were shipped either the same or next day, complete with tracking. She has a nice variety of gift wrap to choose from (even Japanese furoshiki cloth) and fun gift tags. Ashley does gorgeous calligraphy, too. This shop is truly wonderful. I wish it were a permanent fixture in the neighborhood!

David Leonardis Gallery is a nice small gem painting gallery. The paintings are impeccable and…read moreevery painting has its own unique, colorful story on a canvas. I love how pleasant and informative David Leonardis is about each painting that aligns the walls in his gallery. I had such a great evening on last night laughing and chatting it up with him. David has such an amazing spirit and personality. David was kind to show me some cool new pieces in his galaxy. I'm really shocked about some of the negative reviews. Always excellent customer service. I even parked my car right in front of the gallery and he wasn't rude to me. But he did ask was that my car? but he didn't throw me any shade or give me an attitude. The paintings are well worth an investment and he even works with you to set up payment installments. Nice Gallery. Wall Full of Fun Colorful Paintings. David is a really cool and chill guy. He even offered and gave me a chill bottle of water.

Wow...you have to visit this gem on N. Paulina Street in Chicago! If you're a collector, or a…read morebrowser (and visiting here will make want to be a collector), spend some time and immerse yourself in a great experience...you won't be disappointed!

This place offers up some unique art if you're looking for a new addition to your home. On my…read morevisit they had James Audubon's "Birds of America" series. I was not familiar with this, but the large drawings were amazing. Done during the 1800s, these works of art are in amazing condition and are for sale for a pretty penny. They have one of the last remaining full Birds of America books as well. If this interests you, you should definitely check it out. In addition you can also find several unframed works of art for a less expensive price.

Great selection of art for various budgets! My husband bought two original Audubon drawings. We…read moreenjoyed our experience. The lady who works there is somewhat pretentious as you'd expect for an art gallery, but don't let her personality detour you for exploring the excellent pieces they have available!

Ben and Kathy are amazing. Wonderful art, cozy place, great service. Recommended.read more

I am honored and blessed to work at Studio 71 Art Gallery. Kathy & Ben are always motivating me as…read morean artist. The gallery is one of South Shore's treasure that I hope many will appreciate its value. The website's face lift is very colorful, engaging and a true sense of the gallery's atmosphere and art. Do visit the website and the gallery - you will not regret it ! Patricia Travis

I can't say enough good things about this gallery. The space itself is stunning, and their online…read morestore is incredibly user-friendly. I purchased a piece I never imagined would fit my budget, but the founder, Matthew, was kind, responsive, and went above and beyond to make it possible. Artist Replete offers a diverse collection that suits different price points and speak to a wide variety of tastes and perspectives. Highly recommend! Thank you, Artist Replete!

Some traditions were made to be broken…read more With a mantra like this, you know that the art is going to be unique. Artist Replete showcases so many different mediums. Digital designs. Street art. Literature. Paintings. Sculptures. So interesting to visit their first official flagship store in the Water Tower Place. The art is so interesting. Love the use of toy soldiers and Lego people to create portraits. Artist Replete also gives more back to the artists as they take substantially less than the traditional 50% commission charged by most art gallery owners. Worth a stop. Located on the second floor near the Lego Store.