Friday 7/18 – Thursday 7/24
19 SATURDAY For the past four years the members of the Autonomous Zone have attempted to create an antiauthoritarian culture–a real democracy–by implementing a nonhierarchical structure into the group and making decisions from the bottom up. The group’s home has functioned as a library, homeless outreach center, meeting space, and free school where people share their knowledge of everything from belly dancing to bookmaking. Gentrification has forced the A-Zone to move around quite a bit. The new location used to be a restaurant; members say that food and its preparation may play a part in the group’s plans. Tonight they’ll mark the latest move with a low-key grand opening party, where they’ll discuss current projects and ask for input on future endeavors. It starts at 7 at 2012 W. Chicago. It’s free; donations are encouraged. Call 773-252-6019 for more.
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23 WEDNESDAY Sculptor David Snyder has cut, refashioned, and screwed together several trunkloads of used toys to create giant versions of five insects–a dragonfly, a praying mantis, a spider, an ant, and a beetle. They’re the centerpiece of Garfield Park’s Bug Fair. Live scorpions and spiders, as well as virtual bugs on CD-ROM, will be on display at the monthlong bazaar. The hands-on activities include fossil rubbing, mask making, and honey tasting. Since most events take place in the outdoor Sensory Garden, there are sure to be plenty of cameo appearances by local mosquitoes, flies, bees, spiders, and grasshoppers. The free fair is from 10 to 4 today and runs through August 20 at the Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park. Call 773-638-1766, ext. 17, for more.
