SOFA Chicago, the Sculpture Objects Functional Art + Design Fair, celebrates its 20th anniversary this weekend.
The art and design mecca, which features work from nearly 70 galleries around the world, including top glass, ceramics, wood, metalworks, textile, and jewelry artisans, draws many international art devotees to Chicago’s Navy Pier.
To mark its milestone anniversary, SOFA debuted CONNECT, a student design exhibition and competition. Students from five of the world’s art schools have created unique design environments displayed throughout the fair, with Brooklyn’s Pratt Institute taking top honors.
Entrance to over 30 lectures throughout the weekend is free with paid admission. Lectures talks by master furniture artist Wendell Castle and retired glass artist William Castle. Special exhibits that caught our eye include the Dinnerware Museum’s whimsical tabletop masterpieces and intricate craft of the American Association of Woodturners.
View more images from SOFA 2013 at Chicagoist.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger.’ Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
