2008 Midwest Air Force Artists Exhibition September 3, 2008

This fall, the highest view in Chicago isn’t at the Hancock Center or the Sears Tower – it’s in the second floor gallery of the Pritzker Military Library.

The 2008 Midwest Air Force Artists Exhibition will be on display at the Pritzker Military Library from September 4 to October 4, 2008. Admission is free Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and also for Library members during scheduled evening events.

Created by 17 artists, these 35 original works are being shown at the Pritzker Military Library prior to their accession into the permanent art collection of the U.S. Air Force. Each artist was selected to participate in a “mission” based on their preference, technique, and temperament. Artists received official orders from the Secretary of the Air Force, which accords them all courtesies and privileges as a senior civilian employee or officer while visiting Air Force installations or units.

The U.S. Air Force Art Program began in 1947. Today, there are nearly 9,000 works in its extensive collection of aviation art. Each year, the Air Force sends artists to observe and record U.S. Airmen in the line of duty worldwide. The images of men, women, and equipment are captured in oil, watercolor, and other mediums. After being reviewed and juried by the respective associations and participating organizations such as the Society of Illustrators, the artwork is donated by the artists to the Air Force. The U.S. Air Force Art Program supports the artists’ freedom to create any work based on assignments or historical reference.

Sample art and advance viewings for press purposes can be arranged upon request.

This exhibition opens on September 4, 2008, which is the opening date of the Fall Season at the Pritzker Military Library. At 6 p.m., John Callaway will interview Lt. Gen. Robert Van Antwerp, Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information, please call (312) 587-0234.

Official Website: http://www.pritzkermilitarylibrary.org/events