A Bigger Better Medium Cool Returns

• Photo by Marzena Abrahamik, nails by Naughty Nail’z
• Designed objects and art books come together at Medium Cool.

The concept of an art book fair has become a phenomenon in the contemporary art world. Last year’s New York Art Book Fair, organized by Printed Matter and held at MoMA PS1, drew more than 27,000 visitors. Medium Cool, Chicago’s very own art book fair, now in its second year, is back this weekend with extended hours, more vendors, and a day devoted to designed objects.

The book fair, held Sunday at Prairie Productions, features many local names such as Half Letter Press, Sonnenzimmer, and the Graham Foundation, and the items for sale are even more affordable—from $5 for Xeroxed zines to $50 for more elaborate artists’ books.