The Art Institute of Chicago announced on May 18 that it will present “Self, Made: Fourteen Modern Artists from the Richard and Ellen Sandor Family Collection” from June 25 through November 9, 2026. The exhibition will feature nearly 40 works in photography, drawing, painting, and sculpture that explore themes of self-invention by artists both within and outside traditional art circles.
The event highlights the diversity of modern creativity and the role of individual expression in art. Works by well-known artists such as Cindy Sherman and Kara Walker will be shown alongside pieces by William Edmondson, Lee Godie, John Waters, and Joseph Yoakum—artists who did not follow conventional paths into the art world.
All pieces are drawn exclusively from the Richard and Ellen Sandor Family Collection. The collection spans works from the late twentieth to twenty-first centuries and reflects what organizers describe as an egalitarian vision. The Sandors have collected modern and contemporary art since the late 1970s. Their approach included acquiring ‘outsider’ art early on—a decision inspired by a fascination with unique creators whose unconventional work sparked discussions about innovation.
The family has donated more than forty works to the museum for this exhibition, adding to several hundred previous gifts since the 1980s. This latest gift focuses mainly on Photography and Media but also includes items for other departments such as Arts of the Americas, Modern and Contemporary Art, and Prints and Drawings.
“The Sandors have curated an important collection where there is no hierarchy of media or makers, but instead a gathering of surprising and unexpected works in conversation with each other,” said Matthew Witkovsky, Richard and Ellen Sandor Chair and Curator for Photography and Media at the Art Institute. “This exhibition provides an incredible opportunity for visitors to experience a variety of modern and contemporary creativity all in one place.” Whether established or emerging outside traditional systems, all featured artists address questions about identity through their work.
Richard and Ellen Sandor said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the Art Institute of Chicago to bring these works from artists, some recognized, some not, to the public. We hope these bring moments of joy to all visitors as they have to our family.” The show is curated by Witkovsky; a catalogue exploring their collection further will accompany it.
The Art Institute promotes accessibility with resources for individuals with disabilities while offering free tours in English or Spanish according to its official website. Visitors can explore galleries featuring artwork across centuries—from regions including France, Japan, England, Italy, Germany, China—and enjoy dining options serving seasonal dishes according to its official website. The museum emphasizes active learning opportunities that encourage investigation while advancing public service according to its official website.
