Blick Art Materials, one of the most iconic art supply retailers in the United States, recently opened a new flagship store in downtown Chicago at 16 W. Randolph Street. The opening of this store is not just another retail expansion; it’s a celebration of Chicago’s rich history and vibrant art community. Known for providing artists with a vast range of art supplies, Blick has a legacy that dates back generations. This new store is a continuation of that legacy, honoring the past while serving the present needs of professional artists, students, and hobbyists.
The Historic Building: A Connection to Chicago’s Past
The new Blick store is located in a historic Chicago building, once the site of the Old Heidelberg Restaurant. The architecture is a masterpiece, created by the same firm responsible for the Merchandise Mart and Civic Opera Building. One of the building’s standout features is the glockenspiel clock above its entrance, where wooden doors open to reveal a colorful statue of King Gambrinus. This statue was designed by renowned Chicago artist Edgar Miller in 1934, adding a touch of history and local art flair to the building.
Blick chose this location not only for its prime spot in the theater district but also because of its deep historical roots. The building’s connection to Chicago’s artistic history aligns perfectly with Blick’s mission of supporting artists and the local community. As the nation’s oldest and largest art supply retailer, Blick takes pride in its Illinois roots, making this store a symbolic return to its hometown heritage.
The Grand Opening Celebration
The grand opening of the Blick store was a momentous occasion. On Friday, October 21, the event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Blick CEO Robert Buchsbaum. He expressed excitement about the new store, emphasizing the company’s commitment to the Chicago community. He highlighted that, despite the trend of brick-and-mortar stores closing, Blick is investing in its physical presence to create a flagship store that artists and residents can enjoy.
Robert Buchsbaum, a lifelong Chicagoan and Lincoln Park resident, pointed out that Blick is not only the largest fine art supply company but also a family-owned business that has been based in Illinois for generations. His personal connection to the city and the company’s long history make this store opening a significant event, showcasing Blick’s dedication to supporting the local art scene.
The Store: A Haven for Artists
The new Blick store is more than just a place to buy art supplies; it’s a hub for artists of all kinds. The two-story space features an impressive selection of over 18,000 products, covering a wide range of media and art forms. Whether you are a professional artist, a student, or a hobbyist, the store offers everything you need, from high-quality Utrecht Artists’ Paints to trending craft items, stationery, and unique gifts.
In addition to catering to individual artists, the store also focuses on the needs of art students and educators. Located near prestigious art institutions such as the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College Chicago, and The American Academy of Art College, the store aims to be a go-to resource for students pursuing art education. With its extensive range of supplies and support for students, Blick continues its long-standing tradition of nurturing young talent.
Supporting the Art Community
Blick Art Materials has always been more than a retailer; it is a strong advocate for arts education and community engagement. The company has supported various art organizations and educational institutions throughout Chicago and nationwide. The opening of the new store was no exception, as Blick used the event as an opportunity to give back.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Blick presented a check to the Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Arts for their 2023 Scholarship Competition. This gesture highlights the company’s commitment to supporting the next generation of artists. Blick’s involvement in community events doesn’t end there; the store also hosted the Chicago chapter of Urban Sketchers as part of its grand opening festivities. Events like these are designed to bring local artists together, create a sense of community, and promote the art culture in the city.
Accessibility and Convenience
Located in a central area, the new Blick store is easily accessible for Chicago residents and visitors. It is close to the Lake station on the CTA Red Line and the Washington station on the CTA Blue Line, making it convenient for commuters and tourists alike. The store’s location in the theater district means it’s surrounded by the city’s creative energy, further enriching the experience for artists and shoppers.
Blick’s Legacy and Future Vision
Blick Art Materials has a long legacy of serving artists, and its newest store in downtown Chicago is a testament to its ongoing mission. With roots in Illinois, Blick has grown to become the country’s largest and oldest art supply retailer, offering products to artists across the nation through its physical stores and online platform. Despite its national presence, the company remains committed to its local community, continually finding ways to give back and promote the arts.
The opening of the Randolph Street store symbolizes Blick’s dedication to Chicago. By investing in a historic building and creating a space that caters to all artists—whether professionals, students, or hobbyists—Blick is reinforcing its identity as an essential part of the city’s art scene. The store not only honors the past but also looks toward the future by embracing new trends and supporting contemporary artists and their creative endeavors.
Conclusion
Blick Art Materials’ new store at 16 W. Randolph Street in downtown Chicago is a celebration of art, history, and community. The company’s choice to open this flagship store in a historic building demonstrates its deep connection to Chicago and its commitment to preserving and supporting the city’s rich artistic culture. With its vast selection of products, community events, and support for local artists and students, Blick is more than just a retail store; it is a vital part of Chicago’s art landscape. As Blick continues to expand, its new store serves as a reminder that even in a digital age, physical spaces for art and community remain essential.
FAQs
What products does Blick Art Materials offer at its new Chicago store?
The new store offers over 18,000 products, including fine art supplies like Utrecht Artists’ Paints, craft items, stationery, and unique gifts. It caters to professional artists, hobbyists, students, and educators, ensuring a wide variety of materials for all types of creative projects.
Where is the new Blick Art Materials store located in Chicago?
The new store is located at 16 W. Randolph Street in downtown Chicago, in the city’s theater district. It’s easily accessible via public transportation, with nearby stations like the Lake station on the CTA Red Line and the Washington station on the CTA Blue Line.
What makes the new store location unique?
The store is situated in a historic Chicago building, originally the site of the Old Heidelberg Restaurant. The building has architectural significance, including a glockenspiel clock and a colorful statue of King Gambrinus designed by Chicago artist Edgar Miller in 1934. This connection to Chicago’s history and art scene makes it a unique and special location for Blick.
How does Blick Art Materials support the local art community?
Blick has a long history of supporting arts education and community organizations. The new store’s opening featured a donation to the Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Arts for their scholarship competition. Additionally, Blick often hosts local art groups, such as the Chicago chapter of Urban Sketchers, to create community events and opportunities for artists to connect.
Is Blick Art Materials an online retailer as well?
Yes, Blick is not only a physical store but also a pioneer in online art supply sales. The company operates an extensive online platform, providing artists nationwide access to its broad range of products. Customers can choose to shop in-store or online, depending on their needs and convenience.
