The Dunn Museum, operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves, is expanding to include a new gallery for larger special exhibitions. The inaugural exhibit will feature the work of renowned comic book artist Alex Ross, whose art has captivated audiences worldwide.

The idea for the expansion ties back to Alex Ross’ first exhibition at the Libertyville museum, “Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross,” held about five years ago. Often called the “Norman Rockwell of comics,” Ross—who lives locally—was thrilled by the show’s success, which introduced a whole new audience to the Dunn Museum.

Museum staff maintained a strong connection with Ross’ management team and learned about a project at Marvel’s New York headquarters. It featured life-size portraits of iconic heroes and villains displayed on a prominent, high-visibility wall.

Inspired by the concept, Museum staff wondered if it could be replicated at the Dunn Museum. Ross was on board with the idea but pointed out that additional space would be required to properly showcase the life-size portraits of his superheroes and supervillians.

“We’ve discussed ways to utilize unused museum space for some time,” said Steve Furnett, exhibitions and collections manager. “When the opportunity to showcase this Alex Ross concept came up, it became clear we needed additional room to make it happen. Things fell into place and Alex Ross: Portraits of Heroes & Villains special exhibition will run in the expanded gallery space when we open this summer.”

“We are beyond excited to open the new gallery showcasing Alex Ross’ original artwork,” said Director of Education Alyssa Firkus. “Visitors will experience more than 100 pieces, and three life-size murals putting Marvel and DC heroes and villains front and center.”

Ross said he felt the figures would be far more striking if they were life-size, allowing people to stand beside them and feel as if they were in the company of real characters. He also plans to create two new portraits that will be unveiled at the opening of the exhibition and exclusively displayed at the Dunn Museum.

The new 3,000-square-foot exhibition space will be separate from the existing Museum yet remains under the same roof. It’s much bigger than the existing temporary exhibit space, enabling the Dunn Museum to host larger exhibitions.

Access to the Alex Ross exhibition will require a separate admission fee. All proceeds will benefit the endowment campaign led by the Preservation Foundation, the Forest Preserves' charitable partner.

"Expansion of the Dunn Museum is part of the Forest Preserves continued commitment to sharing the entwined stories of people, place and nature,” said Forest Preserves President Jessica Vealitzek. As one of only 3% of American museums with national accreditation, the Museum is dedicated to preserving a rich collection of Lake County history.

Back