Fall is always an incredibly busy season in Chicago’s art world, with new exhibitions opening across galleries and museums. Behind the scenes, many people in the community are working tirelessly to support artists and bring fresh perspectives to the public. We spoke with five insiders about what excites them now and what they anticipate next.

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“SoNa Chicago is pleased to open the Fall season with the culminating exhibition of the Industry of the Ordinary (IOTO) Summer Residency 2025. The exhibition offers viewers a unique opportunity to participate in a one-time full activation on September 6, from 5–8 pm, when all 15 artists will inhabit the entire gallery complex, including the building in the rear and exterior spaces. Visitors can expect a mix of time-based, performative, and spatial interventions alongside two- and three-dimensional works. An artist walkthrough will take place on September 13, from 5–7 pm when all the artists will offer deeper insight into their processes and the evolution of the work. The exhibition is on view through September 27. We also have a wonderful show planned for 2026 to coincide with EXPO Chicago, featuring Tony Fitzpatrick and nine other collage artists. It has been a joy to work with Tony on this exhibition, as he has selected most of the artists in the show. We look forward to sharing these artists’ work with Chicago and the international audience coming to the city next spring. The exhibition will run April 8–May 30, 2026.”