There are some well known zine fests in Chicago itself, but very few out in the suburbs. Anyway, it occurred to me that I could take a little bit of time (how’s that for optimistic) and plan a zine fest for the suburb I currently reside in, Downers Grove. There’s not a lot of culture here and not much for kids or alternative folks to do, so a zine fest might provide a few hours of fun for those inclined to come out for it.

What a way to start the New Year, as the second issue of /mæn-ʌs/ A Chicago Art Zine is now available for purchase in the website SHOP! Tony Fitzpatrick RIP; Was it something I said?; Chicago Art History: Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA); Gwendolyn Brooks Quote; Chicago Surrealist Art; Meet the Collector: Michael Esparza; Roger Brown ephemera, and so much more!

Since the 1940s, Surrealism has found a home in Chicago, both in the collections of our institutions and collectors, as well as among our homegrown artists.

Tony Fitzpatrick (November 24, 1958 – October 11, 2025) was an American artist, actor, and author. Fitzpatrick is best known for his prints and collage, which were often made up of multiple media. Tony was the author of books on his art and poetry. His artwork was exhibited in art galleries and museums across the United States.

The Apostles of Humboldt Park (I, Apostle), is a beautiful book of poetry and collage by famed Chicago artist, Tony Fitzpatrick

The book, The Friedman Collection: Artists of Chicago, with its well-written essay and beautiful reproductions of the art, will disabuse you of the notion that Chicago artists are second to anyone.