While most contemporary galleries dabble in new artists, a wide range of artists, and a variety of media from photography to installation work, Lydon Fine Art knows what it does well and sticks to it. This River North gallery, owned and operated by Doug Lydon, has long been focusing on representing an established set of mid-career Midwestern and European painters.

Both bright and spacious, with blonde wood floors and massive front windows, the gallery's open design allows for plenty of sunlight to flood in, illuminating the works done in impressionist, abstract and colorful styles.

Stephen Dinsmore, possibly the top-notch artist on the roster, paints brushy landscapes that are both romantic and effusive a la Monet. Maria Olivieri Quinn's abstract square paintings celebrate the nuances of color. Elizabeth Elting's aerial views of river beds, farmlands, and landscapes relate beautifully to the Midwest countryside experience. On the representational side, John Boyd's ongoing series of surrealistic portraits of a man wearing a Carnivale mask are an interesting departure.

Not all contemporary art galleries are interested in complicated ideas; this one goes big on beauty. And unlike nearly all of its gallery neighbors in River North, Lydon Fine Art stays open on Sundays.

Centerstage Reviewer: Joanne Hinkel