The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art - Chicago-Midwest Chapter

The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art - Chicago-Midwest Chapter The Chicago-Midwest Institute of Classical Architecture and Art (ICAA) is a part of the leading natio

Thinking about submitting for the Acanthus Awards this year — or wondering how to make a strong submission even stronger...
04/28/2026

Thinking about submitting for the Acanthus Awards this year — or wondering how to make a strong submission even stronger? Join us for a conversation you won’t want to miss.

On May 7 at 5:30 PM CST, we’re bringing together former Acanthus Awards Jury Chairs and Steve Ekman , along with Alison Strickler ()of Hollander Design, for a virtual panel sharing insight, inspiration, and practical advice for crafting an award-winning submission.

This is a wonderful opportunity to hear directly from jurors and award-winning professionals about what makes a submission rise to the top — from storytelling and presentation to the details that can make all the difference.

Whether it’s your first time submitting or you’re looking to elevate your entry, I think you’ll come away with ideas you can put to use right away.
We hope you’ll join us for what promises to be a lively and helpful conversation.

RSVP here: https://givebutter.com/CraftingAcanthusAwardsSubmissions

LandscapeDesign

What does it mean to truly learn from a building? Our workshop at the University of Missouri gave students a chance to f...
04/27/2026

What does it mean to truly learn from a building? Our workshop at the University of Missouri gave students a chance to find out ~ pencil in hand, standing in front of history.

This program covers architectural literacy, precedent study through measured drawings and real world application in classical and traditional design. Student students don’t just study the orders ~ they draw them. They don’t just hear about great buildings ~ they measure them.

This is how the classical tradition is passed forward. 🏛️

A inspirational Friday at Immersive Workshop. ✏️🏛️From breaking down the Tuscan Order through drawing to refining how li...
04/25/2026

A inspirational Friday at Immersive Workshop. ✏️🏛️

From breaking down the Tuscan Order through drawing to refining how light and shadow bring form to life, the focus stayed on sharpening both precision and perception. Every line, every shade, every proportion worked together to build a clearer understanding of how classical architecture communicates.

Friday’s sessions were led by Taylor Stein from and Scott Fortman of

ArchitectureWorkshop

Happy Earth Day ~ dreaming of the next garden tour led by !
04/22/2026

Happy Earth Day ~ dreaming of the next garden tour led by !

Last call for tickets to this weekend’s Immersive Workshop: Rendering the Classical Form. You can sign up for individual...
04/22/2026

Last call for tickets to this weekend’s Immersive Workshop: Rendering the Classical Form. You can sign up for individual days or both sessions. Friday will be a guided drawing of the Tuscan Order and a Light & Shade Study. Saturday is a full day studio session - architectural wash rendering.

Tickets: givebutter.com/icaa-immersive-workshop

✨ Meet the Jury for the 14th Annual Acanthus Awards! ✨We are thrilled to introduce the distinguished panel who will be j...
04/20/2026

✨ Meet the Jury for the 14th Annual Acanthus Awards! ✨

We are thrilled to introduce the distinguished panel who will be judging this year's entries:

C. Brandon Ingram | Jury Chair
C. Brandon Ingram Design

Suzanne Kasler
Suzanne Kasler Interiors

John Howard
Howard Design Studio

These three luminaries bring extraordinary vision, craft, and passion for classical and traditional design to the Acanthus Awards. We are honored to have them lead the judging for one of Chicago's most celebrated design events.

🏛️ Submissions are open — don't miss your chance to be recognized by this incredible jury!

🔗 Link in bio to learn more and submit your work.

The last week of March is PACKED and we don't want you to miss a thing! March 26 — Luminaries Present: Floral Compositio...
03/14/2026

The last week of March is PACKED and we don't want you to miss a thing!

March 26 — Luminaries Present: Floral Composition as Spatial Practice
Where artistry meets architecture — join us for an inspiring conversation on how floral design shapes the spaces we inhabit. 🌸 Generously Sponsored by ,

March 27 — Workshop in Classical Architecture: Ball State University
Hands-on learning, timeless principles. This workshop is a must for students and practitioners alike. 🏺

Two incredible events. One unforgettable week.

🔗 Register now at www.classicistchicago.org/events — link in bio!

And don't sleep on April 10 (U of Missouri) and April 16 (Art Institute of Chicago & Cliff Dwellers' Club) — save those dates now! 📅

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for today’s Drawing the Interior Moulding workshop with Scott Fortman of Fortma...
01/31/2026

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for today’s Drawing the Interior Moulding workshop with Scott Fortman of Fortman Peterson and Associates.

Participants spent the afternoon strengthening foundational drawing skills while gaining a deeper understanding of classical interior mouldings—their proportion, profile, and purpose. Thoughtful instruction, hands-on practice, and meaningful conversation made for an inspiring and productive session.

Thank you to Scott for sharing his expertise, and to our community for continuing to show up with such curiosity and commitment to craft.

📸 Davis Butner
HandsOnLearning

✨ Post-Holiday Gathering ✨Join us for an evening of connection and conversation as the Chicago ICAA kicks off the new ye...
01/16/2026

✨ Post-Holiday Gathering ✨

Join us for an evening of connection and conversation as the Chicago ICAA kicks off the new year with members and friends.

Generously sponsored by Stark and Waterworks, this special night is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces, and expand our community.

We encourage you to bring a like-minded colleague or friend who shares a passion for classical architecture, design, and craftsmanship.

Wednesday, January 21, 5:30 - 7:30
Founders Room at Marshalls Landing
Secure your tickets now: givebutter.com/NewYearNewMember

We look forward to raising a glass with you and welcoming new members into our world.

12/23/2025

As we wrap up the year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, board, sponsors, and the many enthusiasts who make the Chicago–Midwest ICAA such a special community.

From inspiring programs to memorable gatherings, this year was filled with moments that reminded us why connection and craftsmanship matter. We’re so grateful for your continued support and engagement.

Wishing you all a joyful New Year—we can’t wait to continue the conversation and welcome an exciting lineup of programs in 2026.

✨ Keep an eye on what’s ahead—visit the link in our bio to stay connected and explore upcoming events.

In the design world, both Curtis & Windham Architects and Jamb are sought out for their uncompromising dedication to cra...
10/25/2025

In the design world, both Curtis & Windham Architects and Jamb are sought out for their uncompromising dedication to craft, artisanship, and innovation. Curtis & Windham, known for their innovative approach and unique ability to translate history for modern living in a range of relevant architectural vernaculars, has built a reputation as one of the country’s leading architecture firms. Jamb, a favorite of architects and designers across the globe, is an iconic dealer of the finest antique and reproduction fireplaces and lighting, as well as original sculpture.

Though they come from different sides of the design world, these frequent collaborators share a vision that honors historical authenticity while reimagining the principles of classicism for contemporary living. Join Charlotte Freemantle & Tom Jackson of Jamb, along with Bill Curtis and Russell Windham of Curtis & Windham Architects, for this special conversation moderated by ICAA Chicago board member Lynn Osmond.

Tickets still available at https://givebutter.com/CurtisWindhamJamb

Photo from Jamb.
📷

Impressions: A Clay Printing Workshop with Sharon BladholmJoin the Luminaries Young Professionals for a Saturday morning...
10/13/2025

Impressions: A Clay Printing Workshop with Sharon Bladholm

Join the Luminaries Young Professionals for a Saturday morning of creativity and connection at the studio of Chicago-based artist Sharon Bladholm. Known for her work in glass, bronze, ceramics, stained glass, and printmaking, Sharon’s practice bridges art, science, and conservation, drawing inspiration from her expeditions to the Amazon and decades leading Opal Glass Studio.

This intimate workshop invites us to step away from screens and immerse ourselves in a hands-on creative process. Guided by Sharon, participants will carve their own designs into clay slabs and transform them into prints on rice paper or cards.The technique is simple, forgiving, and endlessly creative. With the holidays approaching, it’s the perfect time to create personal, handcrafted pieces.

Set within Sharon’s lush, plant-filled studio, the morning will begin with inspiration from botanical forms before moving into the carving and printing process. Surrounded by natural textures and objects, participants will be encouraged to explore, experiment, and share stories as they create. Everyone will leave with their own prints and a renewed sense of community. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided. Seating is limited, reserve your spot today!

Date & Time: Saturday, October 18 | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Location: Sharon Bladholm Studio, 319 North Albany, Chicago, IL 60612

Address

900 N Franklin Street # 612
Chicago, IL
60610

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