Benjamin Harris
Artspace 8 is one of the coolest galleries on Chicago’s magnificent mile. You can easily miss it because it’s in the Bloomingdale building at 900 N. Michigan Ave. I am originally from Chicago but have lived elsewhere for some years. I randomly stopped by the gallery shortly after it had closed and the owner was so accommodating. He saw me looking inside and unlocked his doors and let me in. I had an opportunity to see some beautiful artwork that he had on display. It was very unexpected because the gallery is bigger than it looks from the outside. The owner allowed me to look around the gallery at my own pace. He answered my questions about the different artists and work that he was showing. He was extremely professional and gracious with his time, especially since I arrived after closing. It is art gallery experiences like these that make the average person (myself) feel welcome and appreciated. The owner did not know me, but he genuinely treated me like I was an important collector and it was obvious that I was not. He explained some of the artwork me and invited me to come back to see new work when I am back in town. The artwork is absolutely phenomenal but the service and down-to-earth owner made this gallery rise to the top. If you are in Chicago on Michigan Ave, this is a must see gallery. This was such a good experience that I actually purchased a painting from the owner and it’s hanging in my house!!!!BGH






