Art Institute of Chicago Receives $25m Donation to Elevate Photography Collection
The recent $25 million gift to the photography department of the Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) will have a significant impact on the museum. The Bucksbaum Photography Center, part of a larger construction project, will enhance the public’s experience. The museum has a rich history in photography, dating back to hosting the First Annual Photographic Salon in 1900. With nearly 25,000 pieces in its collection, the AIC’s commitment to photography is evident.
The gift will further improve the visitor experience, with the acquisition of the Lundberg Collection of 500 American daguerreotypes enhancing the museum’s holdings. The AIC has also become a center for post-war Japanese photography, African Modern and contemporary art, and international conceptual art. The entire collection of 25,000 objects is available online for public viewing.
Chicago has a deep-rooted history in photography, with institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) adding to the city’s reputation as a hub for photography. The Bucksbaum Photography and Media Center will not only benefit the museum but also the broader photography community in Chicago, ensuring that the city’s achievements are recognized globally.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.