Contemporary Art in Chicago: October 2026
Where to see contemporary art in Chicago in October 2026: Art Institute, MCA Chicago, Chicago Art Fair, galleries and open studios, with dates.
Short answer
This page collects Antre’s guides to contemporary art in Chicago for October 2026: Tony Cokes at the Art Institute of Chicago, Melanie McLain at MCA Chicago, the Chicago Art Fair at THE MART and the month’s gallery and open studio dates. Each entry links to a guide with dates, hours and visit details. Antre updates this page every month.
Exhibitions, performances and fairs in Chicago
- Tony Cokes: On Boredom. Art Institute of Chicago, Bluhm Family Terrace, on view October 3, 2026 to March 14, 2027. The window text is visible from Millennium Park.
- Melanie McLain: Peripersonal. MCA Chicago, performed within Slow Dance. The museum lists October 10 and 11, 2026, from 1 to 3 pm, with further performances on October 13, 17 and 18.
- Chicago Art Fair. THE MART, October 7 to 10, 2026, with nearly 50 galleries. Single-day tickets start at $25.
Galleries, artist-run spaces and open studios
- Contemporary Art Galleries, Artist-Run Spaces and Open Studios in Chicago This October. The monthly guide, including the Cornelia Arts Building studios on October 16 and 17, Pilsen Open Studios from October 23 to 25 and the West Town Art Walk from October 2 to 4.
Some events listed here have ended. The linked guides keep their dates.
Terms used in these guides
FAQ
What contemporary art can you see in Chicago in October 2026?
The guides on this page cover Tony Cokes: On Boredom at the Art Institute of Chicago, Melanie McLain: Peripersonal at MCA Chicago and the Chicago Art Fair at THE MART.
Which open studio events are on in Chicago in October 2026?
The monthly guide lists the Cornelia Arts Building open studios on October 16 and 17 and Pilsen Open Studios from October 23 to 25.
How often does Antre update this page?
Once a month. Dates and hours can change, so check each museum, fair or gallery before you go.
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