First established in 1967 the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago has grown in repute and scale to become one of the world’s leading contemporary art institutions. Having been the venue that launched debut exhibitions of renowned artists such as Frida Kahlo’s premier American exhibition and Jeff Koons’ foremost solo exhibition the MCA is popular world over as a Mecca for contemporary and visual art connoisseurs. With an impressive collection that includes historic works from the 1940s to the 1970s, the museum’s permanent collection showcases samples of pop art, conceptual art, surrealism and minimalism and several well-known exhibits of postmodernism in the 1980’s.

Reputed for its illustrious collection of sculptures, contemporary paintings, video expressions, installations and photography exhibits the museum has also become a frequent host of interdisciplinary artistic events, theater, dance and musical productions as well.

Housed within the iconic structure on East Chicago Avenue, the museum building is a work of art in itself with its long staircases, stunning atrium and glass walls from the front and back with translucent and unhindered views of Lake Michigan. Attracting visitors from across the globe with its impressive collection that includes the works of revolutionary artists such as Andy Warhol, Robert Smithson, Alexander Calder, Lee Bontecou and Jasper Johns the museum currently houses 2,345 items and 2,500 artist books as well.

Other noteworthy works on display at the venue include Cindy (1998) by Chuck Close, Study for a Portrait (1976) by Francis Bacon, Polychrome and Horizontal Bluebird (1991) by Alexander Calder, In Memory of My Feelings – Frank O’Hara (1995) by Jasper Johns and Campbell’s Soup Cans II by Andy Warhol.

The MCA commemorated its 40th anniversary in 2008 which commissioned celebratory works from well-known artists such as Thomas Ruff, Dan Flavin and Alfredo Jaar. The museum also expanded its already extensive collection with new acquisitions from popular artists such as Adam Pendleton, Carlos Amorales and Tony Oursler due to the occasion.

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