On a Chicago Street Corner, 2014
pen, ink, and graphite
6" x 4" in a 7 1/4" x 5 1/4" frame
© copyright Mike Kraus
Crossing Congress Parkway after I had some errands to run in Printer's Row. Just trying to enjoy the summer heat and scenery while I wait to cross the busy highway that slashes through the heart of Chicago. To the left is Modern Brutalist buildings. Their fortress like design used in structures ranging from office buildings, parking garages, and gas stations. The only exception is the southern addition of the Monadnock Building from 1891. In the distance to the right is Mies van der Rohe's Federal Plaza. It is the physical embodiment of "less is more." As my eye moves closer I see the Fisher Building (an early curtain wall structure by Daniel Burnham), the Old Colony Building (a skyscraper using early wind bracing techniques), and the Manhattan Building (the oldest surviving skyscraper in the world). The light changes and I head to the 'L' so I can go home for dinner.
This drawing would look great in almost any because of its neutral tones and warm frame
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