Marilyn and Larry Fields.

Marilyn Fields and her husband, Larry, have a long history of attending the Art Basel shows. “We went to the first Art Basel Miami Beach, and that grabbed us,” recalls Marilyn. “We were like kids in a candy store. Collecting is just an addiction.” Devoted supporters of the Museum of Contemporary Art (where Larry is a trustee and Marilyn is on the Women’s Board), the Fieldses have a long history of collecting local artists’ work—think Theaster Gates, Nick Cave, William O’Brien, and Kerry James Marshall—all of it displayed in a private gallery adjacent to their chic Streeterville apartment. Here, Marilyn gives us her recommendations for the Switzerland fair this year.

At the show: Chicago galleries Richard Gray and Stephen Daiter participate in the Main section, but for Fields, Shane Campbell Gallery’s solo presentation of work by local artist Tony Lewis in the avant-garde Statement section is the event’s real Chicago highlight. “His work is very text-based and somewhat esoteric,” says Fields of Lewis, who graduated from the School of the Art Institute and whose work investigates political and aesthetic boundaries.

Institutions and exhibitions: Fields attests that the legendary Fondation Beyeler is a must-see for its special project produced by the inimitable Maurizio Cattelan. And after a three-year renovation, the Schlaulager reopens with the largest survey ever of work by British superstar Steve McQueen, co-organized by Chicago’s own Art Institute. Other highlights not to miss include the Kunsthalle Basel, Kunstmuseum Basel, and the Vitra Design Museum.

See more on Art Basel Switzerland>>

More than 1.5 million people rode the world’s first Ferris wheel at the 1893 Columbian Exhibition in Chicago.

The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition saw some exciting firsts: The public was introduced to Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit chewing gum, and an early prototype of the zipper at the 600-acre fair in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side.

But it was the debut of the Ferris wheel that proved most enchanting. Created for the so-called “White City,” the 264-foot-high circular marvel towered above the nearly 200 neoclassical buildings. When creator George W. Ferris blew a golden whistle on June 21, 1893, to mark the structure’s inaugural turn, the effect was breathtaking: a gracefully spinning spectacle of 952 tons of steel. The invention was immediately hailed as a triumph of engineering, and during the exhibition more than 1.5 million riders would enter its cars to view Lake Michigan and Chicago in all their splendor. The added novelty of 3,000 electric lights on the wheel made the sights even more dazzling.

Although many had initially expressed doubts about the revolving wheel, deeming Ferris “the man with wheels in his head,” the determined inventor transformed his vision into a reality that continues to captivate, turn after turn.

Models in an Ebony Fashion Fair show circa 1971.

With more than 50,000 designs in its collection, the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum is no stranger to doing things on a grand scale. Starting on March 16, however, the institution outdoes itself with the grand new exhibition “Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair.” Featuring 7,000 square feet devoted to 67 garments from the Ebony Fashion Fair costume collection, “Inspiring Beauty” is one of the museum’s largest temporary exhibitions to date.

Divided into three sections, the show first celebrates the trailblazing spirit of Ebony Fashion Fair director Eunice W. Johnson with “Vision,” which includes such haute couture styles as a Christian Dior day coat from Fall/Winter 1964-65, a fire engine–red Pierre Cardin floor-length, side-revealing tunic from Fall/Winter 1970, and a periwinkle Hubert de Givenchy evening dress and stole from Spring/Summer 1974. “Innovation” captures the essence of Johnson Publishing Company’s bold history with eye-catching ready-to-wear looks by Angelo Marani, Balizza, and Emilio Pucci, while “Power” highlights Ebony Fashion Fair’s groundbreaking contributions to the fashion industry—think Guy Laroche, Halston, Vivienne Westwood, and Yves Saint Laurent. But Johnson’s heart and soul radiates throughout the entirety of the Ebony Fashion Fair showcase.

“My mother would see individual designers, take a look at their clothes, buy them, and display them on the road because she felt that they were really good,” says Johnson Publishing Company chairman Linda Johnson Rice. “And she was really particular—she turned those clothes inside out to make sure [everything] was of the right quality. But she gave them an opportunity. That doesn’t come along anymore.”

“Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair” runs March 16, 2013 through January 5, 2014 at Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., 312-642-4600

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Avery Chair, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams ($1,945). 1555 N. Halsted St., 312-397-3135

 

Muffet the Tuffet, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams ($975). 1555 N. Halsted St., 312-397-3135

 

Prescott Chaise, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams ($1,395). 1555 N. Halsted St., 312-397-3135

 

Truman Capote photo, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. 1555 N. Halsted St., 312-397-3135

 

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Interior design gurus Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams joined forces with Michigan Avenue on February 20, 2013 to launch their Spring 2013 Collection at their eponymous Lincoln Park store, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. More than 150 guests sipped Duvel beer and noshed on passed hors d’oeuvres as they browsed the latest furnishings and art.

The furniture making up the Spring 2013 Collection is both classic and contemporary. We love the Avery Chair ($1,945), with its traditional deep leather seat supported by a sleek and modern metal frame. Party guests also got a look at the unique Prescott Chaise ($1,395), an architectural statement piece that's neutral enough for any room. Most interesting, though, are the tuffets. Muffet the Tuffet ($975) is part pillow, part ottoman, but completely on-trend in hair on hide.

Event attendees also perused art as exceptional as the furniture, most of it exclusive to MG+BW. A collection of retro photography ($395-1,095) includes framed black-and-white images of icons from Mick Jagger to Truman Capote. The design duo also introduced commissioned artwork by Hudson Valley artist Lyndi Lende ($395 and $1,295)—calm, ethereal paintings that would help ground any home. 1555 N. Halsted St., 312-397-3135

See photos from the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams spring 2013 collection launch event here>>

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Natasha Motev and Laura Rubin Dresner emphasize that education is key for both buyers and sellers.

 

729 North Kingsbury, listed by Laura Rubin Dresner.

 

1837 North Winchester, listed by Natasha Motev.

 

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Ever since the 2008 financial crisis, real estate’s been on a bizarre roller coaster with just as many crazy ups as downs. But whether a place takes days, months, or years to sell, you can bet that passions run high, negotiations are tough, and compromises are far and few between. Learn what really counts in cutting a deal today from our savvy brokers.

What are you seeing on the sales front?
LAURA RUBIN DRESNER: In general, sellers are emotional and upset because they aren’t making money in real estate like they used to. And buyers expect perfection because they feel like they’re stepping up to the plate in a tricky market. So they’re asking for repairs and credits. Yet sellers don’t want to put any more money into something that they’re already losing money on.
NATASHA MOTEV: I’m seeing the same thing—buyers are looking for perfect houses at really great prices, and that’s a problem because inventory is so low right now to begin with. So to sellers, it’s unrealistic.

So they’re picky and wary going into the game?
LRD: Yes, or in many cases, totally scared. It used to be such a liquid market, so they were okay because they knew they could sell and get out. Now, before we put the offer in, I discuss exit strategies with my buyers— especially on luxury properties.
NM: Now, it’s a really long-term commitment because you can’t exit easily with profitability.

How do you quell your buyer’s fears?
LRD: I educate them about the tremendous value they’re getting. Luxury properties have a high level of quality in terms of their construction, materials, and aesthetics. Often, it would take years and extraordinary funds to replicate all that, and they need to realize that they’re purchasing these properties for much less than replacement value.

And if you’re representing a seller?
LRD: It’s the same story. Education is key. I consistently have to make them understand that the exorbitant amount of money that they put into the design and finishes won’t necessarily translate into dollar-for-dollar returns.

So you’re basically dispelling unrealistic expectations on both sides?
LRD: Exactly and always. And it often pays to head things off at the pass by using the right professionals. For instance, you want an inspector who’s able to recognize the difference between a five-alarm fire and a smoke signal.

Sounds like it takes a lot of hand-holding and psychology.
LRD: We have to be full-service, knowledgeable, and emotionally astute. I guess my psychology degree came in handy after all.
NM: And have a good resource list. After all, you’re only as good as the people on your team.

Laura Rubin Dresner, Baird & Warner, 312-217-4444, laura@laurarubin.com; Natasha Motev, Koenig & Strey, 312-952-5650, nmotev@koenigstrey.com

Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras

THE NOTEWORTHY NIGHT: A CLASSICAL MYSTERY TOUR
What: Enjoy cocktails, dinner, auctions, and a performance of Beatles music by the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras to benefit music training programs.
When: February 2, 6 p.m.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, 120 East Delaware Place
Tickets: Visit cyso.org, or call 312-939-2207, ext. 25.

CYCLE FOR SURVIVAL
What: Participate in this national indoor cycling event to benefit Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center’s research on rare cancers.
When: February 9, 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where: Equinox at The Loop, 200 West Monroe Street
Tickets: Visit cycleforsurvival.org, or call 312-252-3100.

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
What: The 29th annual Fantasy of the Opera features a silent auction, raffle, dancing, and a cabaret performance. The 1920s Paris-themed black-tie event will benefit the Lyric Opera.
When: February 9, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Civic Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive
Tickets: Visit lyricopera.org/fantasy2013, or call 312-827-5656.

BE MY VALENTINE FAMILY EVENT
What: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a concert, luncheon, silent auction, and family-friendly activities to benefit the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation.
When: February 10, 10 a.m.
Where: Ritz-Carlton, 160 East Pearson Street
Tickets: Visit lynnsage.org, or call 312-926-6183.

FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE GALA
What: This eighth annual black-tie benefit includes a five-course dinner, live auction, dessert tastings, music, dancing, and fashion shows with proceeds supporting students at the French Pastry School of Kennedy-King College.
When: February 23, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Where: Union League Club, 65 West Jackson Boulevard
Tickets: Visit fortheloveofchocolatefoundation.org, or call 312-726-2519.

UNCORKED: A CASE FOR WINE
What: Join the Auxiliary Board of the Art Institute of Chicago for an evening of fine wine tastings, food pairings, and auctions.
When: February 23, 6 p.m.
Where: The Casino, 195 East Delaware Place
Tickets: Visit artic.edu/event/fourth-annualuncorked-case-wine, or call 312-443-3674.

The Bar Method opens in the Gold Coast later this month.

Following closely on the heels of Lincoln Park’s recently opened Dailey Method is a new outpost of another barre-based studio, The Bar Method. Set to open January 26 in the Gold Coast, this is the gym’s fifth studio in town—fitting since The Bar Method is celebrating its five-year anniversary in Chicago this year.

So what is all the hype about? The newly-popular exercise technique is a combination of dance conditioning, physical therapy techniques, interval training, and long, lean muscle sculpting. And while the method is getting major buzz nationwide, The Bar Method’s latest opening will make Chicago its largest franchise. The Gold Coast studio aligns with the neighborhood’s overall vibe, promising to be an upscale urban oasis with a spa-like atmosphere. Visit the Lakeview, Wicker Park, The Loop, and Highland Park locations until the opening later this month.

Bar Method Chicago co-owners Lis Settimi and Catherine James aver that the studio’s exercises don’t just change your body, but also your mind. To help your New Year’s resolutions and celebrate its five-year anniversary, The Bar Method is running an exclusively priced five-week unlimited class special for new guests or guests who haven't been to a class since 2011 ($100, through February 10). For more information, e-mail goldcoast@barmethod.com. 1 E. Delaware

Important Cabinet ($150,000– $200,000 estimated value) by Gio Ponti from Tehran in the 1960s.

Just when Midcentury Modern enthusiasts thought they’d seen it all, Wright brings to Chicago’s auction scene incredible Italian design, pieces that remind even the cognoscenti that the animating spirit of the era took myriad forms. While the material and its makers—including Carlo Mollino, Gio Ponti, and Franco Albini—are hardly unknown, the market for the work really only began to heat up about five years ago, and this month’s sale (which features pieces from the holdings of noted Milanese scholar and collector Loris Manna) could well set a record or two.

Whether cast in an organic, sculptural mode or an assertively geometric style, these furnishings manifest a willingness to experiment with material, color, and form that often exceeded the daring of other European or American designers. What’s more, notes Wright senior specialist Michael Jefferson, “expressionism permeates Italian design, but it never strays too far from the functional.”

The dialogue of form and function à la Italiana is exemplified in an almost kinetic cabinet Ponti created for the Villa Nemazee, a Tehran residence he designed in 1960. A playful tension between the mass of the lacquer case and the starlike steel feet it sits atop, along with the activated face of the piece, generate a distinct dynamism. “The signature blue and white coloration, the bold faceting of the form, and the shifting geometry that occurs depending on whether the piece is open or closed, are hallmarks of Ponti’s best work,” says Jefferson. “It’s an A-plus masterpiece.” So, what do I hear for this seminal work of Italian design? The Italian Masterworks auction takes place December 13 at 2 PM; 1440 W. Hubbard St., 312-563-0020

Grand Geneva Mountain Top ski lodge.

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa’s Ed Svitak shares his winter game plan.

What outdoor activities are ideal for families?
ED SVITAK: Our ski hill includes a mountaintop chalet and 18 ski runs. It’s for beginners up to those who are ready to take their skills to Colorado.

How about indoor activities?
ES: We have a fitness center, gymnasium, tennis courts, and indoor lap pool.

What does Grand Geneva have planned for the holidays?
ES: We have a Christmas in the Country tradition. Performers come in from across the country to perform holiday music at our “Hooray for Holidays!” shows.

Chance of a Lifetime Gala.

SPIRIT OF SAINT NICHOLAS BALL
What: The 23rd annual black-tie dinner, hosted by Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I, Monsignor Michael Boland, and chairs Jim and Molly Perry, features a performance by the Ken Arlen Orchestra. Proceeds go toward the children’s programs of Catholic Charities.
When: December 7, 6:30 pm
Where: Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue
Tickets: Visit catholiccharities.net/stnick, or call 312-655-7912.

CHANCE OF A LIFETIME GALA
What: Enjoy dinner, auctions, and a performance by Kool & The Gang benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Fund a Cure program for type 1 diabetes research.
When: December 8, 5:30 pm
Where: McCormick Place, 2301 South Lake Shore Drive
Tickets: Visit jdrfillinois.org/gala, or call 312-670-0313.

SWEET HOME CHICAGO
What: Women In Need Growing Stronger (WINGS) invites families to decorate gingerbread houses, visit Santa, and enjoy music by student carolers from Robert Healy Chicago Public School at this brunch to benefit victims of domestic violence.
When: December 9, 10 am
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, 120 East Delaware Place
Tickets: Visit wingsprogram.com, or call 847-519-7820.

STRIKE A POSE
What: The David DeJesus Family Foundation presents an evening of cocktails and a fashion show for ALS research and support.
When: January 17, 6:30 pm
Where: River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois Street
Tickets: Visit cubs.com/fashion, or call 773-404-4113.

A PURPLE AFFAIR FOR THE BEAR
What: Join the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation Auxiliary Board for an evening of live music, dancing, cocktails, food from local restaurants, and a silent auction.
When: January 26, 8 pm
Where: River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois Street
Tickets: Visit purpleaffair.eventbrite.com, or call 312-214-1200.