Thomas McCormick graduated from the University of Kansas as an art student with a passion for collecting. Folk art, antiques, oriental rugs, paintings and prints quickly filled up his home, making his decision to become an art dealer, a profession that could capitalize on his personal obsession, an unsurprising one. His gallery, located in the rapidly growing West Loop area, focuses on 20th century and contemporary art, housing paintings, sculptures and works on paper. He prefers to highlight mid-century modernism and abstract expressionism, as well as contemporary artists less well known.

The gallery has a contemporary and somewhat industrial feel, lending a perfect backdrop to the abstract and modernist work on display. The simple concrete floors, white walls throughout, floor-to-ceiling front window and chrome and wood furniture blend to create a calm and ascetic atmosphere within which the three-dimensional sculptures and thick, multi-colored paintings can take focus. The large open space invites leisurely browsing, and the staff offers polite distance with a willingness to answer questions when necessary.

Centerstage Reviewer: Genevra Gallo