Trickster Art Gallery

We have been here several times and have enjoyed it. Very interesting. A very nice option for something to do in the suburbs…

I’m going to try and finish this review without quoting Cher’s ‘Half-​Breed’ (
), but just know that I can sing (we’ll use the term ‘sing’ loosley) not only the single but that entire album… and totally will if given enough sauce.
I’ll start off with one of the neatest things about this gallery — that on my Tuesday afternoon visit, I was able to walk in and meet three of their artists who were there volunteering and simultaneously working on pieces. It was a cool sneak-​peak at what’s to come, while also getting to hear a little back-​story on their lives and current works on display straight from the source. Basically, a private gallery tour with expert-​most docents.
The space is pretty large, with multiple gallery areas and a semi-​lofted second level that on my visit was showing a projection of a film regarding the subject matter of the second-level’s works — but even so, it’s still a little difficult to catch Trickster from street-​view. The building is a huge grey-​blue color that almost looks like a really modern barn. Across the parking lot there’s a large mutli-​colored metalwork statue and they’ve got a small roofed patio area as well as a winding walk-​around that goes the partial perimeter of the building.
Inside, along with the hung painted and sketched works, there’s a giant tee-​pee, authentic headdresses, moccasins and jewelry, along with a small library of books, a Native American US servicemen tribute wall, second floor film projection and performance area, photography, statues, carvings and items both historic and modern. There’s a small but really cool gift shop that quite honestly is adds to the art already featured, only this stuff you can purchase for a relatively nominal fee and take home.
The host different events and artists each month and I’ve seen everything form Pow-​Wows to dancers to rappers and beyond — just be sure to follow them on Facebook for updates as I don’t believe they have an official email list, but don’t quote me on that. There’s always something different in the works at Trickster, and while it likely isn’t a place you’ll spend an entire afternoon, it’s a great sorta-​quick-​stop for the curious, interested and those constantly seeking new things, learning opportunities, or those just looking to glimpse a few nudes (there’s not many, but I’ll just say that’s currently some very large racks on display here). I spent about an hour here and saw everything, and I’ll probably go back once a week to just see what’s poppin.
Admission is free, but they do have a suggested donation of $ 5 for adults and $ 2 or $ 3 for kids and seniors, which I feel is more than fair, considering they run on volunteers and it’ll probably cost them more than $ 5 for the cleaning supplies to tidy up the mud I accidentally tracked in from this lovely (sarcasm font) April shower season.

Cool little place featuring modern Native American art for viewing and purchase. They also have other cultural events such as concerts and movie-​nights.

I feel like this should be on more peoples’ lists. I’ve never seen it mentioned in guidebooks or websites of things to do in Schaumburg, and it only has one Unilocal review (now two)! It’s a shame because the Trickster Gallery really is a neat place.
The art was thoughtful and interesting and I’ll admit that I even considered purchasing a few pieces, although my wallet vetoed that idea. The guy running the place was funny and helpful as well.
Overall it’s a very good representation of Native Americans in modern society as told through art. Do yourself a favor and head over to the only Native operated fine arts institution in Illinois.

Native American gallery, with fantastic art and photography.
Very affordable and beautiful paintings and sculptures (mixed media). I love Native American culture and art, and this place offers it at a great value, and serene atmosphere.
There’s a terrific little gift shop which I highly recommend for hand-​made beaded and silver, and semi-​precious jewelry –very affordable, great deals!
I spent around $ 100 and got tons of jewelry (earrings, bracelets, necklaces), books, and a CD with relaxing and amazing Native American music (don’t know where else I could even get these things!).
My family really appreciated the jewelry I gave as gifts.
When I was there, I was shopping for holiday gifts and it was really peaceful and the woman working at the gift shop was super nice and funny.
I want them to do well and helping get the word out about this place.