The Monkey Gallery

The Monkey Gallery has had multiple manifestations over the years in many different locations, from our original location in Highland Park, to Evanston, to our current home in Andersonville. Although we have been many things over the years, we have always welcomed our customers with open ears, singing hearts and creative minds. Currently, we carry... antiques and collectibles as well as jewelry and beads, which are displayed in uncanny and unique ways all around the shop . Bernie Superfine, Chicago native and proprietor of Superfine Things, was introduced to the world of business by his father, David T. Superfine. After returning from overseas military service during World War II, David founded the highly successful Superfine Products, a glove distribution company based in Skokie, Illinois. Soon thereafter, at just sixteen years of age, Bernie went to work for his father. In addition to learning the skills of a good businessman, Bernie also began to study several arts-and-crafts techniques, including copper enameling, macramé, print making, silk screening, glass blowing, beading, and wood carving. By age twenty-one Bernie had opened his first shop in Highland Park, selling personally-designed jewelry and t-shirts. He then expanded his business as he traveled across the country showcasing his jewelry at bead conventions from Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He even followed the Grateful Dead for a few years, designing and dealing his wares as he went.Read More