SoNa Chicago Nominated as Best Art Gallery in Chicago Reader Poll

Upcoming Events and Vote for “Best of Chicago”

See “Of Earth and Spirit” through Jan 13, 2024

Hello Friends,

As you know, SoNa Chicago’s current exhibition “Of Earth and Spirit” features Sharon Bladholm and Monica J. Brown. Visitors are giving high praises to the show, so we hope you will take the opportunity to see it. In other news, the gallery has been nominated as Best Art Gallery in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of 2023” poll! Voting is underway. We’d love to have your vote! Details in the block below. Then, join us for a Book Talk with Mark Ballogg this Saturday, Dec 16 from 1-2 p.m. a Theatrical Event on Friday, Jan 12 from 6-7 p.m., a closing reception on Jan 13, and Holiday Shopping all month long!

We are located at 1527 N. Ashland Avenue in Chicago.

We look forward to seeing you at the gallery!

Laura Botwinick & Molly O’Donnell

Vote for SoNa Chicago for Best Art Gallery!

Here is the link to vote and it only takes a second. Voting is on now and until 11:59 PM on Sunday, January 14. But while it’s on your mind, please take a moment to cast your vote. Click on this link and then click on the yellow box that says “Best of Arts & Culture.”

We are thrilled to be listed with the other wonderful galleries who were nominated, and thanks to all of you who took the time to get us on the ballot.

Chicago Reader "Best of" Link

Book Talk - Mark Ballogg - Sat., Dec. 16, 1-2 p.m.

Mark is a Chicago-based photographer who created a beautiful book based on his visits to 162 studios of Chicago artists. Sharon Bladholm’s gallery is one of the studios featured in the book. The photographs of artist studios are intermingled with 80 artists' quotes. His interviews with the artists touched on topics such as the individual artists' relationship with their studio and how the studio models their practice outward to such questions as what art is, why make art, and art's personal and public impact. Mark will discuss his book and share what he learned from the artists in the process of making the book.

Image: Making Space, 191 pages, 9.5" x 13", released August 2023

SoNa Chicago website

Remaining Events

Mark Ballogg — Book Talk, Sat., Dec. 16, 1-2 p.m. Mark photographed the studios of 160 Chicago artists and compiled them into a beautiful book called Making Space.
Holiday Boutique — Special selection of gifts items at a variety of prices.
Monica J. Brown — Theatrical Performance and Reception, Fri., Jan. 12, 2024, 6-7 p.m. Monica will present a unique theatrical performance. She is an interdisciplinary artist who combines art, theater, and other disciplines.
Closing Reception — Of Earth and Spirit — Sharon Bladholm & Monica J. Brown Exhibition, Sat., Jan. 13, 2024. Check the website in the coming weeks for details. sonachicagoart.com

Theatrical Performance - Monica J. Brown - Fri., Jan 12, 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Monica is an interdisciplinary artist who combines art, theater, dance, poetry, and other modes of artistic expression. She will present an excerpt from one of her plays that accentuates and brings out the meaning behind her artwork. A reception will follow.

Image: Sisters, Acrylic and collage on wood by Monica J. Brown

SoNa Chicago website

Holiday Boutique

Just in time for the holidays, a special section in the Gallery Annex is ready with holiday items in a wide range of prices. We have pottery by Denise Colletti (she is donating her proceeds to greyhound relief), and also by Winter Rye. Coasters by Jill Kolker and Sharon Bladholm, prints by several of the artists (including Sharon’s beautiful watercolors), mini-paintings on cute little easels by Tom Robinson and Loralyn Kumlin, small paintings by Monica J. Brown, books by Tita and Sharon, Mark’s book, Making Space, beautiful jewelry in the gallery by artists Melle Finelli and Christy Klug, and more. Come select the perfect gifts for your family and friends!

Image: Pottery by Denise Colletti

Event Space Rental

The gallery space is available for your meetings and special events.

We were pleased to host a reception for the HRC Campaign’s Federal Club. We also had a local company’s small business meeting in the space. Contact Laura Botwinick at lkbotwinick@gmail.com for more information.

Online Shopping

You can also purchase gifts of artwork at our online shopping site!

Image: Diptych by Monica J. Brown, acrylic on canvas, “You, Me.”