ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Rashid Johnson Photographs Jay-Z for GQ Cover, AI Widely Used in Galleries, and Chicago Cultural Updates

publication · 2026-03-26

On March 26, 2026, contemporary artist Rashid Johnson photographed musician Jay-Z for GQ's global issue, drawing inspiration from James Van Der Zee and Francis Bacon. A report revealed that 84% of galleries use AI tools, but only 8% have formal policies. In Chicago, exhibitions by Marshall Brown and Dabin Ahn opened in West Town, the Park District sought designs for a Jean Baptiste Point du Sable statue, and Mars Snacking announced a $100 million investment adding 600 jobs. Rent increases threatened businesses in Chinatown's Richland Center.

Key facts

  • Rashid Johnson photographed Jay-Z for GQ's global issue, referencing James Van Der Zee and Francis Bacon.
  • 84% of galleries use AI tools daily, but only 8% have formal usage policies, per a First Thursday report.
  • Mars Snacking will invest $100 million in Chicago, adding 600 jobs and opening a Fulton Market office.
  • Rents at Chinatown's Richland Center may double, jeopardizing 18 small food businesses.
  • The Chicago Park District seeks artists to design a statue of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable for DuSable Park.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • GQ
  • First Thursday
  • Chicago Park District
  • Mars Snacking

Locations

  • Chicago
  • Fulton Market
  • Chinatown

Sources