Can Preservationists Save Artist Roger Browns Former Lincoln Park Home From Demolition?

Preservationists are racing to save Roger Brown’s former home and studio in Lincoln Park from potential demolition after the School of the Art Institute of Chicago listed the property for sale. The 19th-century building, located at 1926 N. Halsted St. , served as Brown's residence and creative hub for over two decades, making it an integral part of Chicago's art history. Advocacy groups such as Landmarks Illinois are urging the city to designate the property as a landmark, which would legally protect it from demolition.

Kendra Parzen, advocacy manager at Landmarks Illinois, emphasized its historical importance, stating, “This building is significant and worth saving. ” Brown, a central figure in the Chicago Imagist movement, created many of his well-known works in this space. The property has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2011, but that designation does not prevent alterations or demolition. The School of the Art Institute operated the property as the Roger Brown Study Collection until selling its contents last year. Preservationists are now working against the clock to ensure this vital piece of Chicago's cultural heritage is not lost.