Didn’t anyone ever tell you about the missing Madonna of Chicago? The Immaculate Conception Statue holds a compelling story. It involves devoted alumnae, a journey through Chicago, and a rediscovery of cherished memories.
The Immaculate Conception Statue is an 11-foot-high limestone figure. Alfonso Iannelli Studios crafted it. Some believe Alfonso Iannelli designed it, while others credit his staff member Edgar Miller with part of the work. The statue once graced Immaculata High School. Barry Byrne designed the school, and Iannelli frequently collaborated with him.
Immaculata High School operated from 1921 to 1981. The Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary ran the school. They were known for educating immigrant children. They helped them enter the middle class. The statue stood in an alcove above the school’s main entrance. This was its home until December 5, 1983.
The building’s new owners donated the statue to the Smart Museum. The Smart Museum is associated with the University of Chicago. Alumna Toni Kibort spearheaded an effort to get the school landmark status. A Muslim organization bought the school. They requested a variance to remove the statue. Their religion did not allow icons.
The graduates did not forget the Immaculate Conception Statue. Kibort tracked down its whereabouts. She found it stored in metal tubs in three pieces at the Smart Museum. In 2007, Beverly Avery distributed bookmarks with the statue. It was a reunion souvenir. Kibort and Marcia Burgis discussed the statue at their reunion.
The Smart Museum agreed to release the Immaculate Conception Statue to the Kalo Foundation. It moved back to Park Ridge for permanent display. This was at the Iannelli Studios Heritage Center. Fundraising covered restoration, a mounting base, and moving costs. Sculpture restoration expert Jane Foley is doing the restoration work.
The Immaculate Conception Statue left the Smart Museum on December 3. It arrived on December 6. This was 30 years and one day after it went to the museum. The weekend of its arrival was the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
The Immaculate Conception Statue has had nicknames. These include Our Lady of the Door and the Mac Madonna. Hanney said this Madonna image is more modern and American. However, it retains traditional values of Mary.
Kibort sees the Immaculate Conception Statue as a symbol of good times. She said it embodies good memories, values, education, and friendship. She believed it deserved to be viewed. Avery said the nuns cared about them. They wanted the best for them, by a famous sculptor. They wanted her as a role model.
The story says that the statue’s original expression was brighter. The Mother Superior wanted a serene expression. Iannelli had to fix the mouth. Now, the Immaculate Conception Statue stands tall. It looks pretty and embodies the spirit of Immaculata.