Gallery Talk, Todros Geller: Strange Worlds

Free and open to the public. RSVP is appreciated!

Todros Geller: Strange Worlds draws primarily from Spertus Institute’s collection — which includes extensive holdings of Geller’s paintings, prints, and works on paper as well as preparatory sketches, letters, books, postcards, articles, photographs, posters, and illustrations — to present the broad scope of Geller’s creative endeavors. Works in a range of mediums will be on view, along with a selection of unique archival materials to allow viewers to explore the public and private concerns that animated Geller’s work. Born in Ukraine in 1889, Geller immigrated to Chicago in 1918. He was inspired by the complex blending of old world traditions and modern culture that characterized Chicago — what he termed the collision of “strange worlds.” A prominent educator, he worked at the Jewish People’s Institute and Jane Addams Hull House, then as supervisor of art for the College of Jewish Studies (the precursor to Spertus Institute).

Geller believed that art was a powerful agent for social change, a way to enact tikkun olam, repair of the world. His work directly addressed the social, political, and artistic concerns of his time, many of which still challenge us today.

Todros Geller: Strange Worlds is curated by Ionit Behar, Spertus Institute Curator of Collections, and Susan Weininger, Roosevelt University Professor Emerita of Art History.