Jeff Koons at SAIC
On September 21, internationally acclaimed sculptor, painter, and alum Jeff Koons (SAIC 1975–76, HON 2008) spoke to more than 900 people as part of SAIC's Visiting Artists Program. As the 150th Anniversary Distinguished Alumni Lecturer, Koons discussed his work, career, and experience at SAIC where he studied under influential Chicago Imagists, such as Ed Paschke (BFA 1961, MFA 1970, HON 1990) and Karl Wirsum (BFA 1962), as well as notable faculty members Ray Yoshida (BFA 1953) and Whitney Halstead (BFA 1949, MFA 1954).
Renowned for his pioneering, and divisive, public sculptures and high-priced reproductions, the artist touched on everything from his love of Led Zeppelin and varied source material to the meaning and making of iconic works like Rabbit (1986), Michael Jackson and Bubbles (1988), and Balloon Dog (Blue) (1994–2000).
Read a few highlights from his lecture and post-lecture interview on SAIC's 150th Anniversary microsite and in the Chicago Reader.
In celebration of alum Georgia O’Keeffe: My New Yorks opening current SAIC students were invited to submit artworks inspired by O’keeffe and the city of Chicago.
An image from the exhibition opening of “My Chicagos: SAIC Students Honor Georgia O’Keeffe.”