Iconic Chicago Artist Michael Bertiaux Celebrates 91st Birthday with Art Exhibition and Festival

Bertiaux to be honored with art, music, and occult-themed events at Illuminated Brew Works

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Renowned Chicago artist Michael Bertiaux is celebrating his 91st birthday this month with a multi-day art exhibition and festival at Illuminated Brew Works. The event, titled 'Short Cut to Initiation - A Celebration of the Life and Art of Michael Bertiaux', will feature an exhibition of Bertiaux's artwork, lectures on esoteric subjects, an 'occult burlesque' performance, a trivia contest, and live music from psychedelic and goth bands. Illuminated Brew Works will also launch a new Belgian ale called 'Black Poppy Lady' featuring Bertiaux's art on the label.

Why it matters

As one of Chicago's most iconic and influential artists, Michael Bertiaux's 91st birthday celebration highlights his lifelong contributions to the city's creative and esoteric communities. The multi-faceted event showcases Bertiaux's diverse talents and interests, from his visual art to his writings on occult subjects, and demonstrates the enduring impact of his work over the course of nine decades.

The details

Born in Seattle, Bertiaux began his career as an Episcopalian clergyman before moving to Chicago in the 1960s and transitioning to social work and writing. Throughout his life, he has maintained a prolific artistic practice, contributing paintings to numerous publications, including the works of British occultist Kenneth Grant. The upcoming festival at Illuminated Brew Works will provide an opportunity for the public to engage with Bertiaux's art and ideas through a variety of interactive experiences.

  • Michael Bertiaux celebrates his 91st birthday in January 2026.
  • The 'Short Cut to Initiation' festival will take place at Illuminated Brew Works this month.

The players

Michael Bertiaux

A renowned Chicago artist who has maintained a prolific creative practice for over nine decades, including work as a clergyman, social worker, writer, and visual artist.

Illuminated Brew Works

A Chicago-based brewery hosting the 'Short Cut to Initiation' festival to celebrate Bertiaux's 91st birthday, including an exhibition of his artwork and the launch of a new beer featuring his art on the label.

Stoned Ancestor

A psychedelic band from Gillette, Wyoming performing at the 'Short Cut to Initiation' festival.

Black Lotus Kult

A goth band from Nashville, Tennessee performing at the 'Short Cut to Initiation' festival.

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What they’re saying

“Art is really it's own gnosis'”

— Michael Bertiaux (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

The 'Short Cut to Initiation' festival at Illuminated Brew Works will take place over multiple days this month, providing the public with an opportunity to engage with Bertiaux's art and ideas through a variety of interactive experiences.

The takeaway

Michael Bertiaux's 91st birthday celebration highlights his enduring impact as one of Chicago's most influential and multifaceted artists, whose diverse creative output spanning visual art, writing, and esoteric practices has left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape over the course of nine decades.