You don't have to be an art snob to appreciate the work featured at the John Galt Gallery, and that's exactly what owner Mark Thomas, the man behind The Alley, wanted. Taking its name from a character in Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged, art priced at $200-$1,200 takes the high cost out of collecting.

Meander through the gallery and find yourself partying with Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi. Two life-size Blues Brothers statues stand staring out the window of the gallery, and the variety of blues and jazz inspired photographs make these statues feel right at home. As other artists' work rotates through the gallery every two to three months, the work of Peter Amft, who has photographed the likes of the Rolling Stones, and Marc Hauser will stay on permanent display. Black and white portraits capture true emotion, while color photos of the Chicago skyline and select buildings absolutely sparkle. Oils, charcoal drawings and funky three-dimensional works of art also grace the gray gallery walls.

If your pockets aren't quite deep enough to purchase an original, an assortment of commercial reproductions are available in the Galt Gift Shop. Join the John Galt Gallery mailing list to find out about upcoming openings, wine tastings and silent auctions. Since artists rotate through the gallery every couple of months, check back often for new artwork on the local scene.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Delahanty