Several art spaces around town are willing to host private parties, lending a museum ambience without museum costs. Here's a look at five settings—both sprawling and intimate.
1. The Golden Triangle has been a River North fixture for almost 20 years and opened in a bigger facility last year, making it one of the largest galleries in the country devoted to art, antiques, and home furnishings from China and Southeast Asia. Located in the furniture district just north of the Chicago River, the 23,000-square-foot gallery and indoor Asian-inspired courtyard offers an exotic setting for private events for groups of as many as 500. Unlike most gallery spaces, some tables and chairs are provided, though clients must bring in linens and cutlery. A small kitchen is available for the gallery’s preferred caterers. Valet parking can be arranged, and an on-site paid lot is also available.
2. Founded in 2000 as Flatfile Photography, Flatfile Galleries has since expanded to include contemporary art and sculpture. The 6,000-square-foot West Loop space includes a full kitchen, three bathrooms, and gallery space on two levels. The setting can accommodate as many as 100 guests for a sit-down dinner, or as many as 250 for a cocktail reception. Exhibitions are scheduled at least 18 months in advance, allowing customers a preview of the exhibition that will be on display during their event.
3. A Chicago art scene mainstay since the '80s, Douglas Dawson recently relocated to the West Loop. The gallery specializes in historic artifacts and art pieces from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The 2,500-square-foot loft holds 100 to 150 people for receptions and cocktail parties, but is only available for seated receptions on Sundays when the gallery is closed. The landscaped sculpture gardens are open to guests seasonally. Other amenities include a coat check, a sound system, and a full kitchen with a 250-square-foot staging area and separate entrance for gallery-approved vendors.
4. 4Art Inc. Gallery opened on the east side of Pilsen in 2003. The 1,600-square-foot space can accommodate 60 guests seated and 100 for a cocktail reception. While clients can bring in their own caterers, May St. Cafe, Five of One Catering, and Jewell Events Catering are on the preferred list. The floor-to-ceiling windows, 17-foot ceilings, and a mezzanine overlooking the first floor add to the airy atmosphere.
5. Primitive has been open for more than 20 years, but it was not until January 2006 that the gallery opened its 30,000-square-foot showroom in the West Loop. The gallery sells objects and furnishings from around the globe, creating a museum-like space for an event. Primitive's four floors can accommodate groups of various sizes, seated or standing. The space also offers three powder rooms and two prep kitchens. Staff event planners can offer suggestions to execute a variety of events.
