RIVER NORTH. If the funky and the outrageous interest you, a stop at this gallery is sure to suit. The popular enterprise features objects in metal, clay, and wood, along with contemporary paintings and sculpture. Additional media range from found-object collages to furniture.

WEST SIDE. This distinguished gallery subscribes to the belief that form and function are not separate concerns and that useful items and furniture should also be works of art. The gallery showcases studio furniture and fine decorative crafts, and it hosts rotating exhibits focused on lampworking, flameworking, blowing, hot casting, and kiln-casting. Past exhibits have included, "Vessels, Boxes, and Baskets" and the "Eclectic Electric."

RIVER NORTH. An advocate of new art forms, Habatat Galleries is a must-see for enthusiasts of fine contemporary glass art. Artists represented include Dale Chihuly and Toots Zynsky.

RIVER NORTH. If you're interested in glass as expressive art, check out this gallery, which is home to the city's largest glass art display. Marx-Saunders represents both world-renowned artists and newcomers, and its staff can provide insight into the techniques used to produce art glass. A member of the Chicago Art Dealers' Association.

RIVER WEST. This large showroom features antiques from the British and American Arts and Crafts movements. It also carries furniture, lighting, metalware, ceramics, and paintings. The gallery's museum-quality goods showcase leading designers of the period. You'll also find reproductions of vintage items.