Original Article

Inflatable objects aren’t just gaudy enclosures that sequester screaming toddlers at neighborhood block parties. For evidence, look no further than “Blow Up,” an exhibit at the Elmhurst Art Museum that presents the works of ten artists whose preferred medium is helium. In Birth Death Breath, Diane Christiansen and Jeanne Dunning harness the inflation and deflation of garish Christmastime decorations into an original opera composition. Artist talk and reception for “Blow Up” Fri 9/9, 5 PM. Birth Death Breath Opening reception Sat 10/1, 3 PM. Through 11/27, Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill, Elmhurst, 630-834-0202, elmhurstartmuseum.org, $8