We are very thankful to all of our Chicago collectors, and all from around the world that visit us at the gallery, or purchase from us online. Now entering our 4th year, we were named one of The Best Independent Galleries in Chicago by The Culture Trip. We are extremely pleased to be mentioned with the other iconic galleries on the list. Thanks to all of you for your support. We have incredible artists lined up through the end of 2018, in addition to special pop-up exhibitions and art fairs. We hope to see you soon!

THE CULTURE TRIP: THE BEST INDEPENDENT ART GALLERIES IN CHICAGO

Jana & JS were in Chicago March 27 - April 3 for our Three Year Anniversary show (also featuring Expanded Eye and STATIC). Even though the weather was quite extreme that week, they were able to spend some time on the streets and put up some work.

On the side of Scone City at 1632 W Division...

On the side of 4722 W Fullerton...

On the front of 4722 W Fullerton...

Thanks to Jana & JS! We hope to have them back again when the weather is warmer.

Thank you to everyone that joined us for the Hebru Brantley artist talk, hosted by Kevin Coval, on June 10. Here is the complete interview (42:12).

Hebru Brantley, Memoirs of the Minimum Wage, is June 6 - 28, 2015.

Hebru Brantley was born and raised in Chicago. A product of the 80's, Brantley's early inspiration to create visual art derived from the cinematic Blaxploitation and science fiction depicted in the previous decade. His affinity for mythological comic book heroes, Japanimation, and graffiti has strongly influenced his work, and eventually, he began fusing elements of urban society with pop culture. From that, he developed his own unique style: Afro-Futurism.

Afro-futurism takes a multidisciplinary approach to visual art, layering youthful expression with human emotion, history, and the complexities and challenges of urban life. Brantley creates his work spontaneously and uses an array of mediums such as wood, found objects, spray paint, coffee and tea.

While refining his craft, he earned his BA in Film in Atlanta and went on to design and illustrate for media production and clothing companies. From there, he began to transition from graffiti to canvas, making a name for himself in the contemporary art scene of Atlanta. Chicago continues to be Brantley’s home base, but he enjoys the opportunity to work all over the world.

Vertical Gallery is proud to present a solo exhibition with Hebru Brantley. Memoirs of the Minimum Wage runs June 6 – 28, 2015, with an opening reception on Saturday, June 6, 6-10pm. In his visual survey of growing up in middle-class America, Brantley will show sketches, watercolors, paintings and sculptures that incite us to challenge the norm and question that on which we place value in society.

Contact Patrick at Vertical Gallery to receive the collector's preview.