The Chicago Art Institute

Have you all watched Ferris Bueller's Day off?  I am sure you have, and if you haven't go watch it on Netflix after you finish reading this blog post!  That's an order.  It is a fantastic movie because it is funny and very honest.  This film is one of the few filmed in Chicago.  It does an amazing job of showing off the best things that Chicago has to offer.  I have always loved museums.  Chicago has a handful of great museums.  One of the greatest museums here is The Art Institute of Chicago.  This museum contains Art pieces from many world famous artists (one being Pablo Picasso-- my favorite).    

My first week of college my professor had my class go to the Art Institute.  He told us to find three paintings, one that made us squirm, one that gave us a positive cathartic moment, and one that gave us a negative cathartic moment.  Having gone to the Art Institute many times before I already had an idea of what paintings I would pick for the assignment.  

SQUIRM

This painting has always scared me and it really does make me squirm.  

POSITIVE 

As a young girl I loved this piece of art because it reminded me of the love my mother and I have for each other.  It also makes me think of the safety that my mother has provided me with and the trust that I share with her.  Seeing this painting today takes me back to being a vulnerable child who relies on her parents.  (Unlike now that I am a college student and have to get my sh*t together all on my own). 

NEGATIVE

Gosh I love Picasso, but this painting makes me incredibly sad.  The painting is wonderful, however what it displays leads me to think of loneliness.  As a young girl I used to feel bad for the man with the guitar.  I wondered why he might be in his situation.  Now that I see this painting as an older girl, I also see how any person can be in a situation such as this one.  We go through life hoping that we will never be like the man in this painting.  However, the reality is that it doesn't take much for us to fall into pain, sorrow, and loneliness. 

Assignment and movie aside, I highly suggest checking out the Chicago Art Institute when ever you get a chance.  If you love art you will be dazzled and amazed by everything this museum has to offer.

-Diana