This showing of Karl Wirsum's work will be deliciously whimsical and is not to be missed. Here is the skinny on the show. The Karl Wirsum catalog will be on sale. This catalog is a large glossy number that would make a wonderful addition to any coffee table!

January 18-March 1, 2008 Karl Wirsum: Winsome Works(some) Public Reception: Friday, January 18, 5-8:00pm Wirsum Lecture: 6:00pm "Karl Wirsum: Winsome Works(some)" celebrates the work of painter, sculptor and printmaker, Karl Wirsum, one of the most revered artists in Chicago. He was a notable participant in contemporary group exhibitions, but it was the landmark "Hairy Who" exhibition in 1964 at the Hyde Park Art Center that established his reputation. Wirsum was identified as a core member of that group that dominated the local art scene for decades, and informed much of contemporary visual art of the period. Wirsum's visual style was typical of the Imagist aesthetic and value-a combined graphic sensibilit-vivid, flat colors, simplified cartoon-like figures-with a sense of humor evident in the works themselves and also in titles that second guess and play with words. Wirsum's imaginary creatures and super hero characters enact bizarre scenes; figures from outer space perform domestic tasks such as mowing the lawn; and space men happily orbit starry objects. His work exists in the buffer zone between real and imaginary, mundane domesticity and super hero powers, day-to-day existence and daydreams.

His work can be seen in every major public art collection in the country, many of whom have lent work to this monumental exhibition of more than 100 pieces. As a special feature of his exhibit, Wirsum will conduct a workshop with Herron printmaking faculty and students to produce a limited edition print. Also, Wirsum will present the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation Visiting Artist Lecture on opening night at 6:00pm in the Basile Auditorium. A catalog ($20) and a Karl Wirsum Paddle ($5) will be available for purchase.