Chicago - May 27, 2005

Pay per View

Vespine Gallery

In some instances, it’s true: Mom really does know best.

Take your preschool drawings that still hang on her fridge. She recognized your talent long before anyone else.

But outside of your immediate family, it’s hard to find a place to exhibit. The solution? Pay for the privilege. Submit your proposal to the Vespine Gallery in East Pilsen, and if you’re accepted, just $250 gets you a month of gallery space. Do with it as you please: Hang photographs on the bare white walls, set up sculptures on the wooden floor, or stand naked and sing (okay, maybe not).

If you really want to glam it up, the $400 premium package includes refreshments and ten bottles of vino for your opening bash. The owners use the back room as their studio, but they’re in it for the art and won’t take a penny of commission from your sales.

So you can get your work into the hands of your adoring fans.

Unless, of course, Mom buys it first.

Vespine Gallery & Studios, 1907 South Halsted Street, at 18th Street (312-962-5850 or vespine.org).

  Artsy