Contact: Brian J. Foster Phone: (312) 445-2749 (office) / (773) 209-5749 (cell) Email: bfoster@urbangateways.org Or Phoebe Stein 773-281-5767 phoebe@phoebestein.com
Media Alert DISCOVER THE HIDDEN TREASURES OF THE MINASIAN RUG COLLECTION
When: Thursday, February 6, 6:30-8:30pm Where: Minasian Rug Company, 1244 Chicago Avenue, Evanston Tickets: $100, includes libations and light supper
Witness the unfurling of extraordinary historic rugs, unseen by the public for decades, as Minasian Rug Company reveals hand-picked parcels of their unique collections of decorative, antique rugs. With individual rug values as high as $1,000,000, this event is for every rug connoisseur, art and history lover.
Urban Gateways will also be partnering with Minasian to implement a classroom education program in Chicago schools. The Urban Gateways/Minasian Residency program will focus on engaging middle school students on the art of textiles through the communal process of weaving and rug-making (design and production). Urban Gateways teaching artists and students will explore the historical, cultural and communal aspects of weaving, while creating their own designs for the production of Minasian rugs.
“The art, history, culture and creativity of fine decorative rugs make their study a perfect opportunity for school-aged children,” said Armen Minasian, Partner at Minasian Rugs. “Rugs and how they’re made are amazing lessons in diversity, religion, applied art and design. We’re excited to be the partner to Urban Gateways in bringing this educational opportunity to Chicago schools.”
Since 1897, Minasian Rug Company has been a world-class purveyor of handmade antique, vintage and fine new rugs from the looms of artists and craftsmen around the globe. Specializing in one-of-a-kind rugs, antiques and collectibles, The Minasian brothers travel the world in search of the finest rugs available, as well as manufacture their own new rugs. They hold many famous collections, from the Original Nahigian Brothers and the Joseph W. Fell Collections, to “The Hidden Treasures of Minasian,” an impressive collection of historic rugs unseen for many decades. Hand-cleaning, repair and restoration of Oriental Rugs (antique and new) is an additional on-site service at the Minasian Rug Company. Minasian Rug Company is located in Evanston, Illinois at 1244 Chicago Avenue. Hours are Monday through Saturday 9am to 5pm and special appointments are available by calling 847-492-1800.
Urban Gateways delivers high-quality, accessible arts experiences that advance students’ personal and academic growth. Professional artists engage Chicago’s youth in arts activities that build essential skills like creativity, collaboration and innovation, and improve their self-esteem and confidence necessary to succeed in life. Minasian Rug Company is partnering with Urban Gateways to help Chicago youth create a brighter future for themselves and their communities through arts learning.
### For more information on this event, Urban Gateways, or Minasian Rugs, please contact Brian Foster, Director of Marketing and Sales at Urban Gateways – (312) 445-2749 or bfoster@urbangateways.org.
