Kids Chicago - January 05, 2009

The Kid Stays in the Picture

Me Art Custom Artworks

That toothy smile. Those rosy cheeks. Your kid should be in pictures.

Give him a leading role in custom artworks by Me Art. Local mom (and former ad exec) Jeannie Heilman Richardson digitally alters photos of tots, turning them into kaleidoscopic prints and works on canvas.

The process is simple: Submit a photo online and choose a style (images can be made to resemble etchings, pen-and-ink drawings, pop art silk screens, and more). You can also select color and design schemes and add text.

Richardson donates some profits to schools and programs that introduce kids to the arts.

Now that’s star quality.

Available online at meart.com.

DO
Cross-Country Skiing at The Morton Arboretum
What: Nearly 1,700 tree-dappled acres are yours for the gliding.
Why: There’s no business like snow business.
When: Daily, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 4100 Illinois Rte. 53, at I-88, Lisle (630-968-0074).

CUDDLE
Areaware Feather Kuma Bears
What: Organic cotton teddies are hand silk-screened with modern graphics.
Why: Cold comfort.
When: You need the bear necessities.
Where: Pivot, 1101 W. Fulton Market, at Aberdeen St. (312-243-4754).

SEE
Cabaret Mechanical Theatre
What: Amusing exhibit of twenty mechanical sculptures that are activated by mini cranks, pulleys, and gears.
Why: Life is a cabaret.
When: Thru Mar. 2. Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St., at Lake Shore Dr. (773-684-1414).