In the words of the philosopher Homer Simpson: “Lousy Smarch weather.” There may be a ways to go until it actually feels like spring in Chicago, but—fortunately for us—great art waits for no one. Here are eight art show recommendations for the month of March.
Achromatic Vibrancy By featuring works in only one color, this group exhibition hopes to inspire conversation on the aesthetic strength and complexity of the non-color elements of art, whether it’s the texture of manipulated plastic, the line of cut paper or the form of painted burlap. Elephant Room, 704 S Wabash Ave. March 6, 5:30-8pm. Free.
HATCH Projects: Extraordinary Effort, Spectacular Failure Inspired by David Foster Wallace’s depiction of the “anti-rebel,” one who values sincerity over irony, the artists and curator embraced earnest creative struggle during their year-long HATCH residency. This cumulative show reflects the unattainability of conventional success in artistic practice. Chicago Artists Coalition, 217 N Carpenter St. March 6, 6-9pm. Free
Aufstecken Female pin-ups are the inspiration for German designer and illustrator Lars Krause’s first stateside solo exhibition. Galerie F, 2381 N Milwaukee Ave. March 6, 6-10pm. Free.
Spring Open House Re/discover “The People’s Palace” with art, music, film screenings and more, including a preview of the "Archibald Motley: Jazz Age Modernist" exhibition and a bonus Chicago WinterDance featuring Charleston lessons and live 1920s-style jazz. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington St. March 6, 9am–9pm. Free.
Voces de Mujeres | International Women’s Day Celebration Celebrate the talents and strengths of the many talented female artists, musicians, activists and educators living and working in Chicago. This event also includes music, spoken word, poetry and storytelling. Carlos & Dominguez Fine Arts Gallery, 1358 W Cullerton St. March 7, 6-11pm. Free.
What Did She Say? The artists in this show work with varied processes and media, from technical printmaking methods to traditional oil painting. First-time curator Michele Mahon Jahelka invites viewers to stop and listen to what each artist has to say. Sidetracked Studio, 707 Chicago Ave, Evanston. March 7, 6–9pm. Free.
Heroes & Villains An international roster of artists shares its unique interpretations of comic book characters in original works on paper, canvas and found materials. Vertical Gallery 1016 N Western Ave. March 7, 6-10pm. Free.
Happy Birthday Chicago Join Echoes of Chicago for a celebration of Chicago’s 178th birthday. Enjoy an exhibition of 50 artists, live bands, burlesque performances, a marketplace, arts and crafts tables, and more. Block 37, 108 N. State St. Friday, March 28, 6pm. $10 suggested donation.