New programs, videos and stories

CAC LIVE

REGISTER NOW FOR CAC LIVE

This issue of CAC@Home brings great news for all lovers of architecture, design, urbanism and Chicago history. Register today for our first seven CAC Live events, and stay tuned for dates and times for more than a dozen additional events we’ll offer through the end of May. Alongside one-time-only CAC Live events featuring architecture experts, design practitioners, acclaimed authors and industry leaders, CAC Live also engages the organization’s corps of more than 600 docents and volunteers.

All CAC Live programs are free for members and $8 for the general public. Processing fees may apply.

Chicago Public Art Stories
Saturday, April 11 at 1pm
Wednesday, May 13 at 7pm

Chicago’s public art collection is star-studded, widely varied, endlessly interesting—and still growing. Join CAC docent Ed McDevitt as he leads this engaging introduction to some of Chicago’s greatest public art treasures.

The Vision of Illinois Center
Wednesday, April 15 at 7pm
Saturday, May 9 at 1pm

Learn from CAC docent Lorie Westerman how an abandoned freight yard—right where the city was born—was transformed into an important urban development, home since 2018 to the Chicago Architecture Center.

“Design Is Storytelling” Book Talk
Wednesday, April 15 at 1pm

For author Ellen Lupton, design is not just about problem solving, but a political and rebellious act with many societal applications. Learn how designers use storytelling techniques to create satisfying graphics, products, services and experiences.

Women of the 1893 World's Fair
Saturday, April 18 at 1pm
Wednesday, May 6 at 7pm

Hear from CAC docent Kathleen Carpenter how the World’s Columbian Exposition was a showcase for women artists, activists and achievers so compelling that we still discuss them, and their work, 127 years later.

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

Strolling side streets through your own neighborhood is a great way to get your steps in this spring. CAC docent Nancy Sims shares historical snapshots from her neighborhood, for an easy walking tour in the Sheffield Historic District.

STRONG SHAPES

Ever wonder why buildings don’t just tip over? Spend 15 minutes in this hands-on workshop as we explore two systems engineers use when designing structures—whether small or tall!

WATCH

NEIGHBORHOOD STROLLERS

Have you ever wondered what buildings are made of? Join CAC staff member Rebecca Boland as she takes a closer look at a commonly overlooked material: brick.

All CAC docents and staff practice safe spatial distancing while taking walks in their own neighborhoods. Please do the same!

WATCH

SCULLY MASTERCLASS SERIES

While the CAC’s 2020 Vincent Scully Masterclass Series is postponed, please enjoy this recording of last year’s first of three Masterclasses held in the Gand Lecture Hall at the CAC. Access to the 2019 Vincent Scully Masterclass Series is provided exclusively to CAC members. Additional programs will be released in future Members’ Edition issues of CAC@Home.

WATCH

Existing registrations for 2020 Masterclasses will be honored for the rescheduled Scully Series at the CAC, to be announced at a later date. To request a refund, please email tickets@architecture.org.

CAC RECOMMENDS

LISTEN UP

One of the joys of learning about architecture is developing an “ear” for the various things that a building might whisper (or shout). Sometimes these messages come from the overall shape of a structure; other times, it’s the details that tell the story.

THE APPROACH OF A NEW ERA

What lies ahead for architecture and urban life after COVID-19? No one can say just yet but, in this unique moment, there are important observations and ideas to capture. Today and in the weeks to come, we’ll share some of our thinking about what’s next. Follow the link to learn more and share your own responses with us.

FLOWING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

“Chicago has had a complicated relationship with its river” over the past 400 years, writes CAC President and CEO Lynn Osmond in this story from the CAC archives. “We’ve tried to navigate it, defend it, profit from it and control it. At times, we’ve even abused and neglected it.”

ONE MORE THING

CAC Industry Council principal member ArcelorMittal is doing its part during the COVID-19 crisis by participating in a global collaboration to prototype new ventilators, and by producing face masks at its R&D facility in Asturias, Spain. Follow the links below to learn more.

Watch “ArcelorMittal using 3D printing in the fight against COVID-19” on YouTube (in Spanish with subtitles).

ArcelorMittal Global R&D Centre Spain, designed by architecture firms [baragaño] and Impulso.

“ArcelorMittal to develop 3D printed ventilator prototype in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic” —Rakhi Mazumdar, The Economic Times

THE LATEST

The CAC is committed to providing a safe experience for its entire community of members, staff, visitors, volunteers and tour attendees. Visit our COVID-19 information page for the latest updates.

As noted this week by Blair Kamin of the Chicago Tribune, the CAC “depends on revenue from spring and summer tours to replenish [its] coffers after tour activity comes to a standstill in the winter months.” Your support today is crucial to the stability of the CAC through this crisis. We hope we can count on you to make a gift—at any level that is comfortable for you—to help us weather this storm. Please consider supporting the CAC today with a tax-deductible donation, online at architecture.org/donate.

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