Tishman Speyer x Arts of Life – Jean Wilson

Tishman Speyer and Arts of Life in collaboration with Torque announce a new rousing art installation by artist Jean Wilson at The Franklin. Starting on November 22, the public is invited to view this limited-time Party Animal-themed exhibit, welcoming people to the Loop with a pop of color as we move into the grey winter months.

Arts of Life advances the creative arts community by providing artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities a collective space to expand their practice and strengthen their leadership.  The exhibit at the Franklin will showcase artist Jean Wilson’s work of bright, fierce paintings.  The retail space on Franklin and Monroe became the perfect place to showcase Jean Wilson’s artistry.

Jean Wilson was born in 1958 in Chicago. As a child and young adult, she lived in several state operated institutions. In 2000, Jean moved into L’Arche Chicago as one of the founding core members. An accomplished visual artist as well as musician in the Arts of Life Band, Jean’s creative drive seems to have no limits.  Jean recently completed a limited edition print run with Summertime Gallery in Brooklyn. Her work has previously been featured in The Beasts at Circle Contemporary, as well of the extension of that show at The Other Art Fair at MANA Contemporary.

Jean’s unique talent lies in determining the emotional core of her subject matter and depicting this as fiercely as she possibly can. Drawn to animals, Jean concentrates on qualities that make her subjects powerful, dangerous, and respected. Before anything else, we notice teeth, claws, and glowing eyes. Her ferocious menagerie acts as protection for Jean, while announcing her artistic identity.

For many years, Tishman Speyer has worked with artists to create communal experiences for its commercial customers. Arts of Life and Tishman Speyer have found a shared passion for reaching people and nurturing communities through the richness of artistic expression. This collaboration at The Franklin is meant to bring people, talent, and spaces together to make connections and kindle the imagination.

The Franklin Chicago
227 West Monroe Street
Chicago, IL 60606