Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art - a person standing on a white ball
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Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art

4.7
·197 reviews·Chicago, United States

A vibrant museum dedicated to outsider and intuitive art, celebrating self-taught artists and their unique visions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
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Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art - a person standing on a white ball

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant museum dedicated to outsider and intuitive art, celebrating self-taught artists and their unique visions.

4.7
(197 reviews)

"The only museum where I leave thinking, 'Maybe that pile of bottle caps in my kitchen is actually a commentary on late-stage capitalism.'"

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TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance online. It's a quick and easy process.

☕ Enjoy Complimentary Refreshments

Take a break in the video viewing area and enjoy free coffee, tea, and water while watching artist videos.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Visionary Art Galleries

Visionary Art Galleries

Discover art from self-taught artists, often born from unique life experiences and intense personal visions.

Found Object Masterpieces

Found Object Masterpieces

See how everyday items are transformed into profound artistic statements, challenging conventional notions of art.

Artist Video Lounges

Artist Video Lounges

Relax and immerse yourself in artist-created videos, often offering a deeper look into their creative process.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unconventional

Intuit is a haven for art made outside traditional academic training. Expect the unexpected, from found objects to visionary creations. It's a refreshing change from conventional galleries, celebrating raw creativity.

Plan for Intimate Exploration

This museum is a gem, but it's on the smaller side. Allocate about an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and perhaps enjoy a complimentary beverage in the video viewing area. It's perfect for a focused art experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Catch the early energy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

oh my gods schizophrenia sounds exhausting #artbrut #outsiderart #surrealismartcommunity #yayoikusamaart #camilleclaudel #edvardmunch #louiswaincats #richarddadd #schizophrenicartist #schizophrenicart 🎨
@k4554ndr4
309.1K likes • 1.4M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance online. It's a quick and easy process. Reddit

☕ Enjoy Complimentary Refreshments

Take a break in the video viewing area and enjoy free coffee, tea, and water while watching artist videos. Reddit

reddit.com

2.5 year anniversary! Where do the artists go?

reddit.com

Visiting Chicago from Alabama

🚶‍♀️ Allow About an Hour

The museum is intimate; an hour is perfect for exploring exhibits and enjoying the video lounge. Reddit

✨ Embrace the Eccentric

Prepare for art that's unapologetically unique and thought-provoking. It's a refreshing departure from traditional art. Reddit

reddit.com

Resources about Folk Art?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance online. It's a quick and easy process. Reddit

☕ Enjoy Complimentary Refreshments

Take a break in the video viewing area and enjoy free coffee, tea, and water while watching artist videos. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Allow About an Hour

The museum is intimate; an hour is perfect for exploring exhibits and enjoying the video lounge. Reddit

✨ Embrace the Eccentric

Prepare for art that's unapologetically unique and thought-provoking. It's a refreshing departure from traditional art. Reddit

⚠️ Be Mindful of Motion Sickness

Some videos are shot handheld; if you're prone to motion sickness, be aware before you watch. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(197 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Intuit as a refreshing and unique art experience, celebrating the creativity of self-taught artists. The museum's intimate size, unconventional exhibits, and welcoming atmosphere are frequently praised, offering a delightful departure from traditional galleries. Some note the videos can cause motion sickness, but overall, it's considered a must-visit gem.

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Intuit Art Museum is a refreshing reminder that you don’t need an MFA—or even a straight line—to make art that matters. Every corner of the place whispers, “Yes, your uncle’s basement sculptures do belong in a museum, if only he’d commit harder.”

The exhibits are unapologetically eccentric: a shrine to the unexpected, where found objects become masterpieces and doodles feel like divine revelations. It’s the only museum where I leave thinking, “Maybe that pile of bottle caps in my kitchen is actually a commentary on late-stage capitalism.”

The space itself is cozy, intimate, and slightly chaotic—perfectly aligned with the art it champions. Five stars for making me question whether I’m an untapped creative genius or just someone with a very cluttered garage.

Would recommend to anyone tired of staring at oil paintings of stern men in wigs."

Kyle Eggleston

"We have been wanting to visit this museum for years and finally got to check it out.

We bought tickets online for $5 each, and it was an easy process. When we arrived a man told us about the exhibits.

The museum is small, with a small gift shop and a few galleries. We spent about an hour looking at the paintings and photographs. There was a video viewing area with easy chairs and complimentary coffee, tea, and water. You could press a button to select a video to watch. There were about 10 to choose from they were all very interesting. The videos were created with a handheld camera, so please be aware if you are prone to motion sickness.

Great museum, will be back!"

Megan Brooks

"Wonderful small art museum, well worth a visit. Recently expanded with some very cool exhibits"

Colm Ronan

What People Like

Unconventional and visionary art
Intimate and welcoming atmosphere
Affordable admission

What People Dislike

Potential for motion sickness from videos

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Intuit is located in Chicago. Public transportation is a great option, with several bus lines and 'L' train stops nearby. Check your preferred transit app for the most convenient route from your location. Parking can be challenging in the area, so consider public transit or ride-sharing services. Reddit

Yes, Intuit is well-served by Chicago's public transportation network. Several bus routes stop within walking distance, and nearby 'L' train stations make it easy to reach from various parts of the city. Reddit

Parking near Intuit can be limited and metered. While street parking might be available, it's often competitive. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or public transit to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Intuit is situated in Chicago, but it's not in the immediate downtown core. It's a gem hidden on a typical city street, offering a more neighborhood feel. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, walking might be feasible, but it's generally recommended to use public transport or a ride-share for efficiency, especially if you're coming from further afield in the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Intuit is typically very affordable. Tickets are often around $5 per person, making it an accessible art experience. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the door. However, buying tickets online in advance is recommended for a smoother entry process and to guarantee your visit, especially during peak times. Reddit

Intuit's operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website before your visit. They are typically open on weekdays and weekends, but specific times should be confirmed online. Reddit

While Intuit is a smaller museum, they may offer special arrangements for groups. It's advisable to contact the museum directly in advance to inquire about group visits or guided tours. Reddit

Information about membership programs is best found on Intuit's official website. Memberships often provide benefits like free admission and discounts, supporting the museum's mission. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

Intuit exclusively showcases folk and outsider art. This includes works by self-taught artists, often created outside the mainstream art world, featuring visionary and unconventional styles. TikTokReddit

Most visitors find that about an hour is sufficient to explore the galleries and enjoy the video lounge. It's an intimate museum, perfect for a focused art appreciation session. Reddit

Intuit frequently features rotating special exhibits that highlight specific artists or themes within outsider art. Check their website for current and upcoming exhibitions. Reddit

The video viewing area offers a comfortable space with easy chairs where you can select and watch various artist-created videos. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided. Reddit

The art at Intuit is generally thought-provoking and can be unconventional. While many find it inspiring, parents should consider the nature of outsider art, which can sometimes touch on mature themes or intense personal experiences. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is often permitted, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. It's best to check for posted signs or ask staff for clarification. Instagram

Special exhibits or particular artworks might have restrictions on photography. Always be observant of signage within the galleries and respect any limitations set by the museum. Instagram

The unique and often colorful nature of outsider art provides many visually interesting opportunities. Look for pieces with striking compositions or unusual materials. The overall ambiance of the museum can also be photogenic. Instagram

Yes, phone cameras are typically allowed for personal use, provided flash is off and you are not disrupting other visitors. Capturing the distinctive art is a popular activity for many guests. Instagram

Absolutely! The unconventional and often vibrant nature of outsider art makes Intuit a fantastic place for unique Instagram photos. Look for pieces that stand out visually and capture the spirit of the museum. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Intuit offers a unique opportunity for families to explore art that is often vibrant and imaginative. The unconventional nature of outsider art can spark curiosity and conversation with children about creativity and different ways of seeing the world. TikTok

While the art is generally engaging, parents should be aware that some pieces might touch on intense personal themes. The museum's video lounge with complimentary refreshments provides a nice break for younger visitors. Consider discussing the art with your children, encouraging them to share their interpretations and what they find interesting or surprising about the pieces.

💡 Art Enthusiasts Seeking the Unique

If you're tired of conventional art and seeking something truly original, Intuit is your destination. This museum is a treasure trove of visionary art, folk art, and art brut, showcasing creators who operate outside the mainstream. Reddit

Prepare to be challenged and inspired by works that are deeply personal and often made with unconventional materials. The intimate setting allows for close examination and contemplation, making it a rewarding experience for those who appreciate art that pushes boundaries and tells compelling stories. Don't miss the chance to explore the artist video lounge for deeper insights. Reddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Explorers

Intuit is an excellent choice for travelers on a budget, with admission typically costing around $5. This makes it one of Chicago's most affordable cultural attractions. Reddit

Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding neighborhood or utilize Chicago's extensive public transit system to keep travel costs low. The complimentary coffee and water in the video lounge also add value to your visit, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable break without extra expense.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The World of Outsider Art

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art is dedicated to showcasing art created by individuals who are largely self-taught and have little to no formal art training. This genre, often referred to as outsider art, folk art, or art brut, celebrates raw creativity that emerges from personal experiences, visions, and an uninhibited drive to create. Unlike art produced within academic institutions, outsider art is often deeply personal, unfiltered, and can explore themes with a unique intensity. TikTok

Visitors to Intuit can expect to encounter a diverse range of mediums and styles. This includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and assemblages often made from unconventional materials. The artists featured at Intuit are celebrated for their unique perspectives and their ability to communicate profound ideas and emotions without adhering to traditional artistic conventions. It's a space that champions the idea that art can come from anywhere and anyone. Reddit

The museum's commitment extends beyond just exhibitions; it often hosts performances and lectures, further enriching the understanding and appreciation of intuitive and outsider art. This provides a more holistic experience, connecting visitors with the artists and the cultural context of their work. It's a place that encourages a reevaluation of what constitutes 'art' and who gets to be called an 'artist'.

Navigating Intuit: A Visitor's Guide

Intuit is praised for its intimate and welcoming atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for art lovers. The museum is relatively small, which allows for a focused and unhurried exploration of its unique collections. Many visitors find that spending about an hour is sufficient to absorb the art and enjoy the amenities. Reddit

A notable feature is the video viewing area, where guests can relax in comfortable seating and watch a selection of videos created by the featured artists. This offers a deeper insight into their lives and creative processes. To enhance the visitor experience, Intuit often provides complimentary coffee, tea, and water in this area, making it a perfect spot to pause and reflect. Reddit

While the museum is small, it has undergone renovations to expand its space and improve the visitor experience. The staff are frequently highlighted for their warmth and helpfulness, contributing to the overall positive impression of the museum. It's a place that feels both personal and professionally curated, offering a refreshing art encounter.

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