<< BackNow, Great Art for Free for All
For the first time, all Shimer students will be able to visit the Art Institute of Chicago at no cost to them.
For years, students enrolled in Humanities 1, Art and Music have enjoyed membership to the world-renown art museum. Harold Stone, who has taught the course many times, explains that Hum 1 students go to the Art Institute to fulfill one of the requirements of the course: a class presentation on a painting of their choice.
But starting this semester, thanks to an initiative by the museum and the generous support of our donors, Shimer is able to supply free admission passes to the entire student body. “This is a fabulous boon to our students, and it opens up whole new possibilities for other courses as well,” says Harold. “Now we will be able to send our students for assignments or to see something as part of their coursework throughout the curriculum. It’s a great step in our aim to make Chicago part of our classroom.”
In November 2011, the Art Institute initiated a program with Chicago-area colleges and universities that offers undergraduate students free admission to the museum (normally $12 for students) as well as access to lectures and performances. This semester, Shimer students can enjoy lectures on Byzantine ecclesiastical art or Roy Lichtenstein, see dance and symphony performances, or hobnob at After Dark in the Modern Wing. Students also have full access to the museum’s research libraries, which house over 400,000 print titles in art and architectural history.
When Shimer partnered with the Art Institute, some former Hum 1 students had already inquired whether their memberships could be extended for another year. Says second-year student Mohini Lal, "I'm so grateful for this incredible opportunity to get involved with more of Chicago's culture and art." All of Shimer shares her gratitude and extends a sincere thank-you to those whose support made this great benefit possible: Marshall Field V, Alumni Association President Nancy Nickel, and the many raffle ticket buyers at the 2011 Shimer Days Alumni Reception.