Wrightwood 659

Wrightwood 659 is a new exhibition space conceived for the presentation of exhibitions of architecture and of socially engaged art. It is designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando, who has transformed a 1920s building with his signature concrete forms and poetic treatment of natural light.

In a city rich with art institutions and internationally known for its architecture, Wrightwood 659 is designed as a site for contemplative experiences of art and architecture, and as a place to engage with the pressing social issues of our time. Located at 659 W. Wrightwood Avenue, in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, it is a private, non-commercial initiative envisioned as an integral part of the cultural and civic fabric of Chicago, as well as a new kind of arts space and cultural resource.

Each exhibition, Wrightwood 659 hires students and recent grads for our Educator team, who lead talks in the gallery and guide visitors through our space. Other educational initiatives include workshops about curating and careers in the arts with education non-profits, course modules for CPS students designed around Wrightwood 659 exhibitions, free group visits for CPS schools and college students in Chicago, and tours and interactive workshops for students in our galleries.