Where:A detached two-car garage at Expo Chicago artistic director Stephanie Cristello’s apartment
What:Group shows in a pristine white cube
Why:Cristello knows more artists than she can squeeze into the city’s big annual show. No other independent space in Chicago can boast such an international roster.
When:By appointment; contact info@chicagomanual.style.
Where:The basement of artist James Kao’s apartment building
What:Solo shows. Opening April 14: Huong Ngo’s video installation about 1970s Vietnamese cosmonauts.
Why:Kao’s landlord offered him and two fellow School of the Art Institute grads a cheap lease for a space where they could show work by artists underrepresented in commercial galleries.
When:Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m.
Where:Artists Edra Soto and Dan Sullivan’s gazebo
What:Rotating exhibitions and performances in an open-air structure, even in winter
Why:Soto and Sullivan consider the art in their home a semipublic collection, so think of this as an extension — one that doubles as a backyard party (drop-ins welcome).
When:Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
Where:A single-user (and still functional!) bathroom within the gallery Slow
What:Solo and group exhibitions whose titles are variations on a certain theme: Duty, Relief, Squat, and We. (Get it?)
Why:Slow codirectors Paul Hopkin and Jeffrey Grauel wanted an unstuffy space for wilder, more whimsical art.
When:Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m.
Where:The interior of a 16-foot rental moving truck, parked near partnering cultural spaces, like, this fall, the BDSM fun house Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park
What:Group shows highlighting emerging talent
Why:The trio of artists in charge wanted to attract passersby who don’t typically gallery-hop.
When:Follow on Instagram (@unpacked.artist.space) for details.