What’s in there? Fine Arts Building’s monthly open houses show you

Nestled in the heart of Chicago, the Fine Arts Building stands as a beacon of artistic legacy and creative vibrancy. Every second Friday of the month, this historic space opens its doors from 5 to 9 p.m., inviting visitors to explore its 10 floors of studios, galleries, and the magnificent Studebaker Theater.  

Originally designed by Solon Spencer Beman as a carriage assembly plant in 1885, the building underwent a transformation in 1898 to become one of the nation’s oldest artist communities, now celebrating its 125th anniversary. Among its illustrious past tenants are Frank Lloyd Wright, sculptor Lorado Taft, and “Wizard of Oz” illustrator W.W. Denslow. Today, it continues to house visual artists, musicians, theater companies, and other creatives.  

Artist Matt Bodett, who has called the Fine Arts Building home since 2018, first encountered its unique charm during a visit to a friend’s studio. “I was in awe of the history and overall ambiance of the building,” he recalls. The very next day, he signed a lease and began sharing a studio with his partner.  

For Bodett, the Fine Arts Building provides an environment that fosters confidence and professionalism. “It has made it so much easier to hold studio visits and gatherings with other artist friends,” he shares. While the building’s history doesn’t directly influence his work, it inspires a sense of belonging to a lineage of creative excellence.  

The atmosphere of the Fine Arts Building is as eclectic as its tenants. Bodett describes it as “odd, in the best sense of the word.” He enjoys the diversity of sounds and activities, from opera singers practicing to jazz musicians jamming, all of which contribute to a vibrant and playful energy.  

However, the building’s age brings its challenges. Bodett notes that the size of the elevators and doors limits the scale of his artwork. Additionally, as director of the Center for Mad Culture, he grapples with accessibility issues during events.  

Despite these challenges, the open house events remain a highlight. Visitors can experience everything from violin-making demonstrations to live opera performances, along with the chance to engage directly with artists like Bodett. “We simply have our door open, letting people mingle and see what projects we’re working on,” he explains.  

As Bodett works on his latest ambitious project, re-painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling to scale, he hopes visitors will leave inspired to ask questions and explore new perspectives. For him, the Fine Arts Building isn’t just a workspace; it’s a thriving community and a source of endless creative energy.