By Sydney Armstrong
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is a museum and cultural institution unique to Chicago and the country at large. It was founded in 1971 by Dr. Achilles Chreptowsky, Vera Chereptowsky, Konstantin Milonadis and Mychajlo Urban in the heart of Chicago’s Ukrainian Village. The purpose was to showcase the works of artists of Ukrainian descent. Later, the Institute widened its scope by reaching out to non-Ukrainian artists of all backgrounds.
For example, the artists of non-Ukrainian descent presently include Sheila Clay, Francelia Herron Cotton and other African American ceramic artists, creators of “Black Women in Clay”, a work currently on exhibit at the Institute. The Ukrainian Institute preserves contemporary art as an expression of the Ukrainian and American experience. The Institute develops artistic expression through concerts, readings, exhibitions and films to fill the cultural needs of our community and thus develop diversity and cultural understanding.
Black Women in Clay exhibition at Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
It had taken more than twenty years for the museum to develop as a concept and then to reach its present form. Milonadis and Urban were transferred from a displaced person’s camp into the U.S. Army after World War II. Both decided the arts was the path for them and met at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. After graduation, they wanted to create shows and create what they wanted. They searched other cities such as Toronto and New York City before settling on Chicago. Their creative view was modern, contemporary, experimental.
Author beside the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art wavy wall
As Elena, Archivist for the museum said, “Their purpose was to give an opportunity to artists to represent the world and their viewers to see it.”
Many visitors to the museum in those early days became collectors. Dr. Achilles Chreptowsky was one who took notice. He said to Milodanis and Urban, “You ought to have your own gallery.” By 1971 they had established a non-profit institution. In 1978, they started to exhibit in a two-flat building. The building had belonged to the local church. Architect Stanley Tigerman designed and build the wavy wall.
Picture of a priests robe in tile
Next year the museum will celebrate its 55th anniversary. Exhibits, concerts, films and other cultural events are in store. The museum is located at 2320 West Chicago Ave. Those who wish to visit can go online and plan a visit. The museum offers group tours, student tours and private tours. The museum is truly a diamond in the rough!
