Cecil McDonal Jr.’s Frances before dinner

Lincoln Park

As we gear up for November, it’s fascinating to look back at another historic election year; 1968: Art and Politics in Chicago features art, protest posters, films, and more. Thru Nov 23. DePaul University Art Museum, 2350 N Kenmore. 773-325-7506.

Andersonville

In the late 1800s, Swedes made up the third-largest immigrant group in Chicago. Check out artifacts of their lives—plus contemporary art inspired by them—at the Swedish American Museum. Do it during the neighborhood’s art walk (Oct 4, 5) and skip the $4 admission. Oct 3-31. Swedish American Museum, 5211 N Clark. 773-728-8111.

Wicker Park

Wealth without work, pleasure without conscience, politics without principle: Gandhi’s Seven Deadly Sins served as inspiration for Points of View, a series of puppet shows, performances, and projections in the windows of the Flatiron Building. Come early to meet the artists. Oct 10, 11 at 10 pm; studios open 6-10. 1579 N Milwaukee. 773-469-7201.

The Loop

Chicago has produced more than its share of exceptional young photographers recently. Cecil McDonald Jr, whose large-scale photos explore middle-class African American family life, is but one example featured in Made in Chicago. Oct 18–Jan 4; panel discussion Oct 17 at 2. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington. 312-744-6630. 

Hyde Park

This neighborhood’s history is there to see in its public murals, some dating back decades, some—including images by aerial photographer Terry Evans and DuSable Museum cofounder Margaret Burroughs—brand new. Tour Oct 25 at 11. Underpass at 53rd and Lake Park. 312-427-2724. 

Photograph: Cecil McDonald, Frances before dinner, 2005, Inkjet Print. © Cecil McDonald, Jr., Courtesy  Catherine Edelman Gallery, Chicago. Bank of America La Salle collection.