The Magic Basement

About the Book

The Magic Basement is a collection of stories about an undergraduate program at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago during the years 1970 through 1974. The text describes the meanderings of colorful characters in unique scenarios. There are numerous visuals in the book of student artwork and school parties. Also dispersed throughout the text are descriptions of assignments and professors' quotes. The Magic Basement gives the reader a glimpse of life as an art student and a taste of a decade in which Americans were able to exercise freedom of speech and expression without fear of repercussion.

About the Author

Marie Cassidy is an art educator who received her bachelor's and master's degrees from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She is an artist and a member of the En/Compass group which is a network of artists that comes together to create and exhibit work. Marie has curated numerous art exhibits including a national juried show. She currenty teaches at Purdue University Calumet and City Colleges of Chicago.