Loyola University starts demolition on Rogers Park flatiron building

Loyola University Chicago began demolishing a 100-year-old flatiron building in Rogers Park last week, despite a yearslong push by community members to save the triangle-shaped building.

Constructed in 1926 by architect R. Bernard Kurzon, the 30-unit apartment building at 1224 W. Loyola Ave. was once home to businesses Archie’s Cafe, Roman Susan Gallery and Edge Art. It’s next to the Loyola Red Line stop.

The university purchased the site in 2024 for $3 million, according to the student newspaper Loyola Phoenix. It was issued a demolition permit on Jan. 5, according to city records.

Via Chicago Sun–Times

Big Chief Demond Melancon, Bras-Coupé (apron), 2016. Glass beads, rhinestones, and braided trim on canvas.

Courtesy of the artist and Mariane Ibrahim.

Mariane Ibrahim Announced Representation of Big Chief Demond Melancon

Born in New Orleans in 1978, where he continues to live and work, Melancon’s practice is deeply rooted in the traditions of Black Masking Culture of New Orleans, which he entered in 1992. Over the past four decades, he has cultivated a singular artistic language and an enduring local recognition that led him to receive in 2012 the title of Big Chief—the highest ceremonial role within a Mardi Gras Indian tribe. More than an honorific, the role carries the responsibility of guiding and inspiring the community, embodying the tribe’s values, aesthetic codes, and highest standards of craftsmanship and discipline.

Melancon’s work takes the form of intricate suits conceived over the span of several years, and bi-dimensional works, all executed entirely by hand through dense hand-sewn beadwork. Created to be activated in the ritual space of Mardi Gras, his suits unfold as complex narrative compositions, where history, memory, and imagination converge. Across his practice, a pantheon of figures emerges, invoking stories of Black excellence and rebellion, from Haile Selassie and icons of popular culture to visual references connected to Ashanti and Yoruba heraldry and ceremonial traditions. Self-taught, he has often cited influence of Kerry James Marshall, particularly in his commitment to expanding the historical and representational language of Black life. 

Pigment International's Glory! Glory! art exhibition honors Black History Month

The Glory! Glory! art exhibition, presented by Pigment International, celebrates Black History Month through powerful and inspiring works. Founder Patricia Andrews-Keenan and featured artist Reggie McFly joined Fox 32 in studio to share what visitors can expect. 

Via Fox 32

Chicago-Based Pritzker Prize Defends Jury Independence After Epstein Ties Surface

The Pritzker Architecture Prize issued a statement defending the integrity of its selection process after newly released Jeffrey Epstein files detailed past contact between Tom Pritzker, the director of the foundation behind the award, and the disgraced financier.

The statement, released to the New York Times, said the Hyatt Foundation’s role as the prize’s benefactor allows it “to remain assured in the strength of its process and focus entirely on the celebration of architectural excellence.” It also emphasized the jury’s independence: “The jury, composed of internationally respected professionals from a range of disciplines, has always and will continue to conduct its work confidentially and free from external influence.”

Via ARTnews