Michael Christoff: Microcosm: The Little Big Picture
@ Friendly Music Community
6725 W Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn, IL 60402
Opening Friday, August 9th, from 7PM - 10PM
On view through Saturday, September 7th
“On a summer day, I was walking a few blocks to work and stopped at the corner of Wells and Monroe, waiting for the light to change. The morning rush in Chicago is always exciting for me: the muted noise, the gleaming glass, the rushing people, the punctual trains, the slogging cars. As I waited, I was surrounded by a small crowd of people, all part of the city’s vibrant hustle. Above me, the underbelly of the “L” cast shadows, and out of them emerged a cacophonous flock of pigeons. Their wings flapped frenetically, shedding feathers everywhere. The sound of hurried conversations around me created a chaotic postmodern symphony that echoed on that corner of the city. Three other women and I were the main targets of the pigeons’ sudden descent, so we we ducked and shielded ourselves from the unexpected avian commotion.”
In the midst of the flurry, we struck up a conversation about ourselves: I told them I was a photographer(?) and I learned they worked at a local bank. At that moment, it felt that our worlds collided. Exposing our worlds this moment captures the essence of my show title,
“Microcosm: The Little Big Picture.” where the seemingly small, everyday human interactions and elements of life reflect the broader, intricate architectural essence of the city. Each encounter, each person, each scene is a vital thread in the rich tapestry of Chicago, illustrating how our individual lives intertwine to create the vibrant macrocosm of the city.
Everyday elements of Chicago—like transportation, bike culture, commuters, architecture, history and birds—reflect and complement the city’s broader, intricate essence.
I’ve always been captivated by Chicago’s architecture and history. Growing up in Northwest Ohio, I would visit the city both as a kid and during my college days. Architecture was my first language, and I initially thought I’d become an architect. My frequent visits deepened my appreciation for the iconic skyline and rich architectural heritage, which has greatly influenced my visual storytelling and photography. My connection to Chicago’s architectural marvels continues to inspire and shape my artistic journey.
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Tags: Berwyn, Friendly Music Community, Michael Christoff, Microcosm: The Little Big Picture
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