2025-2026 Lecture Series
Theme: Visual Arts in Chicagoland
There are two lectures for each date. The first will begin at 1:00 pm at Glendale Lakes Golf Club
Please see the map at bottom of this page. All lectures are free to members.
October 1, 2025
Introduction to Art in Chicagoland
Speaker: Sherryl Brown
Focusing on the vibrant art galleries, compelling exhibitions, and remarkable artists in Chicago’s 601 area code, a celebration of creativity that will wow you.
Outsider Art in Chicago
Untitled (detail) by Henry Darggar, Collection in American Folk Art Museum, New York City
Speaker: Kathryn McKee
Outsider Art is often considered a controversial art form. Fortunately, some of the finest collections of Outsider Art are located nearby and help us understand these works and their unique, often unknown artists.
November 5, 2025
The Chicago Cultural Center
Speaker: Roberta Pawlak
The Chicago Cultural Center was designed to impress; to prove Chicago had grown into a sophisticated metropolis in the 19th Century. It was a palace for the people where everyone could enjoy art, culture and education.
The Tiffany Exhibition at the 1893 Columbian World’s Fair
Speaker: Dorothy Mikuska
Louis Comfort Tiffany made his international debut at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago with his dazzling Romanesque style chapel. It drew 1.4 million visitors; then it disappeared. Follow its journey and see its magnificence.
February 4, 2026
Local Artists’ Profiles
Speaker: Beth Gemkow
The Awakenings Project works to raise public awareness, acceptance, and appreciation of people in recovery using many creative endeavors, especially fine art.
Lorado Taft, Chicago Sculptor
Speaker: Julie Schauer
In the late 1800s and early 20th century, Chicago sculptor and teacher Lorado Taft aspired to make Chicago the powerhouse of sculpture equal to its architecture. The Fountain of Time, Eternal Silence and other masterpieces should earn him a prominent place in art history, but why isn't he as well known today?
March 4, 2026
Gilded Mansions of Chicago’s Past
Speaker: Mary Ellen Middleton
During Chicago’s Gilded Age (1870-1900) the lavish homes of the wealthy were symbols of power and prosperity. In this presentation we will learn about the residents, the architects and the architectural splendor of some of those still standing.
Driehaus Museum and Murphy Auditorium
Speaker: Marti Seaton
In Chicago’s River North, the Nickerson Mansion houses the Driehaus Museum, including a vast collection of Tiffany’s stained glass. The museum campus’ past and present owners, collections, exhibits, and programs bring the Gilded Age to life.
April 1, 2026
Art Deco in Chicago
Speaker: Linda Carol Evans
Chicago has a rich history of Art Deco. This lecture includes a discussion of how art deco influenced architecture and interior design in Chicago.
The Early History of the Art Institute’s School of Art
Speaker: Mary G. Marshall
This lecture will focus on the Chicago Institute’s School of Art, its formation, famous instructors, and students who were essential in creating the world-famous art school and museum.
Lecture Venue
Glendale Lakes Golf Club, 1550 President Street, Glendale Heights, IL 60139
Directions from the south (in Glen Ellyn)
1) From Geneva Road, turn north on Bloomingdale Road
2) Turn left on E. Fullerton Avenue
3) Turn left onto President Street
4) Pass Glendale Heights Public Library on left
5) Glendale Lakes Golf Club is on the right
Directions from the west (in Wheaton)
1) Go north on Main Street which turns into Schmale Road
2) Turn right on East Fullerton Avenue
3) Turn right on President Street
4) Glendale Lakes Golf Club will be on the right
Directions from all points east
1) Go west on North Avenue to President Street (2.8 miles west of I-355)
2) Turn north on President Street for .8 miles
3) Glendale Lakes Golf Club will be on the left