The fifth edition of the Chicago Architecture Biennial 2023, known as CAB 5, has begun with architecture-themed installations in galleries and various pop-up projects throughout the city. While Chicago has a rich architectural heritage with notable figures such as SOM, Frank Lloyd Wright, Jeanne Gang and Mies van der Rohe, the theme This is a Rehearsal emphasizes the collaborative nature of architecture in shaping future environments rather than focusing on individual architectural achievements.
The current edition is curated by the art collective Floating Museum, which includes poet Avery R. Young, architect Andrew Schachman, sculptor and community facilitator Faheem Majeed, and artist Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford. The unique perspectives of the members of the collective, who bring different insights into cities and communities, inform the Biennale’s wide range of offerings. Although the collective includes only one architect, it’s not surprising that CAB 5 largely eschews traditional architectural exhibitions, eschewing foam models, scale drawings and wall-mounted manifestos.
Find out more details on Chicago Architecture Biennial website.
Featured photography of 100 Links by AD–WO and The Buell Center at Columbia University
Photography by TOM HARRIS