“The Greek Monsters” at the National Hellenic Museum

Minotaur

A new exhibition titled “The Greek Monsters” is now open at the National Hellenic Museum (NHM). The oversized, colorful creatures are engaging for children and adults alike and tell classic mythological tales in a modern way. The “post-black-figured” visual style of The Greek Monsters exhibition is based upon the original illustrations by Greek-based artists, Beetroot, for a book titled “The Misunderstood Monsters of Greek Mythology.” The presentation brings the book to life through sculpture, paintings, audiovisual artwork, and interactive displays. The Greek Monsters are presented as contemporary symbols and re-establish Greek mythology’s central role in western storytelling.

This exhibition has made several stops on its international tour. Every time the exhibition reaches an important destination such as Chicago, a brand-new monster and poem are designed to pay homage to the host city. Chicago’s monster is Lernaia Hydra, a regenerating water creature that represents persistence and survival in the face of hardships. There is an educational component which introduces children to more than twenty mythological creatures, and teaches them important lessons about racism, discrimination and other moral challenges…. All with a message that being a “monster” isn’t such a scary thing after all.

The Greek Monsters exhibition is sponsored by Hostess Brands and the Onassis Foundation.

The exhibition is free with Museum admission – $10 for adults, $8 for seniors/students, $7 for children ages four and up, children under three are free. Museum members and members of the media are free. It is conveniently located walking distance from the CTA Blue Line at UIC-Halsted and CTA Bus Route 8 Halsted and parking is available at privately managed parking lots. Visiting hours are Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays 10 am to 5 pm, Thursdays 10 am to 8 pm, Saturdays/Sundays 11 am to 5 pm. The Museum is closed on Tuesdays.

For more information, their website is nationalhellenicmuseum.org and their phone number 312-655-1234.