A stroll through this intense museum is akin to peering into a soldier’s soul. Although it’s not exactly comfortable, it opens our eyes to the ways that war can affect soldiers, right down to their synapses. The works here, from sculpture to photography to portraits and more, were all created by veterans, many of whom fought in Vietnam. Located in the second floor of a loft in the Portage Park neighborhood, some of the themes touched on include suicide and alcohol, and renderings of camo gear, bullets, and weapons abound. I can tell you from a recent visit that some of the works are heart-wrenching, while others are downright weird, like a sculptural tribute to Barbie on her 50th birthday, which included a number of Barbie heads in a box along with a museum-grade real shrunken head. The most visceral part of the museum is the text posted by a fair number of the works, describing, in the veteran’s words, the exact memory or moment that inspired the piece. Talk about chills. Allow a half hour.
Chicago› Attraction
National Veterans Art Museum
4041 N Milwaukee (btw. Irving Park Rd. and Cuyler Ave.)., Chicago, IL 60641
Our Rating
Hours
Tues–Sat 10am–5pm
Transportation
Bus: 80
Phone
312/326-0270
Web site
National Veterans Art Museum
Other
Free admission. Suggested donation. Closed major holidays
Map
4041 N Milwaukee ChicagoNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.