The Art of Can
By Chris • Updated Nov 7th, 2007 • Category: Chicago Events
“The Art of Can” exhibit, sponsored by Red Bull, will be rolling into Chicago at the River East Art Center from Friday, November 9th - Sunday November 18th. River East Art Center is located at 435 East Illinois Street and is open Monday - Saturday: 9am - 6pm; Sunday: 9am - 5pm; with a special evening engagement on Friday, November 16th: 5:30pm - 8:30pm.
Red Bull “The Art of Can” exhibit has been touring the world showcasing art made out of cans since 1997. Each year new pieces are accepted and the exhibit tours to different cities around the world, with Chicago and Philadelphia showcasing this year’s entries. The premise of the event is to encourage people to use Red Bull cans to create pieces of art. Usually in the form of a miniature model, previous entries have taken the shape of the “Rock-em-Sock-em Robots”, Low-Rider motorcycles, Air Force fighter jets and many other things that you would have to see to believe.
On Friday, November 16th the River East Art Center will be hosting is regular Gallery Night with “Art, Wine and Music”. The Art Center will be open until 8:30pm and will showcase “The Art of Can” as well as several other current exhibits. I have not attended this event before but I imagine it is a lot like the MCA’s First Friday event. The Gallery Night is free and open to the public.
While it’s easy to see the commercialism that is present in The Art of Can (every piece must feature Red Bull cans), I applaud Red Bull for in their own way encouraging art. The Art of Can’s Official Website features many of the past the previous year’s entries which have included works of fashion, audio-visual, and other varieties. If you happen to be taking a stroll down Michigan Avenue or be near Navy Pier sometime next week, swing down Illinois Street and have a look.
