On December 6, 2018, a unique announcement appeared in the Chicago Tribune, inviting the public to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime event at the Art Institute of Chicago. The museum is calling for participants to become part of a photo recreation, not just by having custom canvas wall art made, but by physically being a part of the art itself.
Art Institute of Chicago’s 125th Anniversary: A Historic Photo Recreation
As part of its 125th anniversary celebration, the Art Institute of Chicago will recreate a historic photograph taken in 1893, and the photo recreation event is set to take place on the front steps of the museum, located on Michigan Avenue, on December 8, 2018. The museum invites patrons and anyone else interested in being part of this memorable event to sit on the iconic steps, pose with others, and contribute to this tribute to the museum’s rich history.
A Glimpse into History
This unique event offers a rare opportunity for participants to directly engage with the museum's historical legacy. The photograph being recreated was originally taken more than a century ago, showing a large crowd gathered on the steps of the Art Institute during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. The image captures a moment in time when the museum's building was one of the central locations of the fair, serving as a gathering place for international visitors and dignitaries.
The crowd in the original photo is seated on the steps, with several figures walking in front of them. The figures are slightly blurred in the photograph, which only adds to the sense of motion and the spontaneous nature of the scene. The Art Institute’s team of photographers plans to carefully recreate this historic scene, capturing the same atmosphere and feeling that was present during the fair more than 125 years ago. The result will not only be a historical artifact but also a vibrant piece of living art, made possible through the participation of hundreds of individuals who will form part of the reimagined scene.
An Invitation to Become Part of Art History
The event offers more than just an opportunity to step into a photograph—it’s an invitation to become a part of the museum’s ongoing story. By joining in, participants will be contributing to the living history of the Art Institute of Chicago, helping to bridge the gap between the past and present. The photo will be shared widely on the museum’s social media channels, allowing people around the world to experience this connection to history. It will also become part of the Art Institute’s archives, ensuring that future generations can look back and see the vibrant, diverse community that helped bring this historical moment to life.
Once the photo is taken, it will be turned into a custom canvas print, available for purchase. These prints will become an integral part of the museum’s anniversary celebrations, allowing people to own a piece of this unique moment in history. Whether displayed as wall art in homes or as part of a gallery exhibition, these prints will serve as a tangible reminder of the Art Institute’s incredible history and the public’s involvement in preserving that history.
A Community-Focused Celebration
The photo recreation also underscores the Art Institute's ongoing commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. Kati Murphy, a spokesperson for the Art Institute, emphasized that this event is not just for museum members but for everyone, saying, “Being inclusive and inviting everyone is part of who we are and part of our civic mission.” The museum’s 125th anniversary is not just a celebration of its history but also a reflection of the vibrant and diverse community that has supported it throughout the years. By opening this event to the public, the Art Institute is creating an opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds to take part in something truly special.
Learn and Reflect
This photo recreation event is an exciting chance to be part of art history, but it’s also an opportunity to learn more about the museum’s rich heritage. As participants gather on the steps of the museum, they will be surrounded by architectural landmarks that have stood for over a century, offering a chance to reflect on the significance of the museum’s role in both Chicago’s cultural landscape and the global art community.
The original photo from 1893 captures a large crowd sitting on the museum’s steps, with some individuals spilling onto Michigan Avenue. The image, in black and white, also includes three figures walking in front of the crowd, although their faces are somewhat blurry. The museum's photographers aim to replicate this scene and bring back the same historic atmosphere as part of the celebration.
The Art Institute’s Historic Building: A Symbol of Chicago’s Legacy
The Art Institute of Chicago’s building holds significant historical value, not only due to its architectural grandeur but also because of its pivotal role in the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Originally constructed as part of this world-renowned fair, the building was designed to showcase the artistic and cultural achievements of nations from around the globe. The Exposition, which celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, marked a monumental moment in the history of both Chicago and the United States. It was a time when the city was transforming into a major cultural and economic hub, and the Art Institute’s building became one of its most important landmarks.
The building itself was constructed as part of the “White City,” a term used to describe the temporary structures that housed the Exposition’s exhibits. Designed by the architectural firm Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, the museum building was part of the larger effort to create a grand, neoclassical space that would reflect the ideals of progress, democracy, and international cooperation. With its Beaux-Arts design, featuring iconic columns, arches, and sculptures, the building was one of the standout structures at the Exposition. It quickly became one of Chicago’s most beloved architectural gems, representing both the city's ambition and its rich cultural landscape.
During the fair, the Art Institute’s building was used as a space for international assemblies and meetings, where intellectuals, artists, and dignitaries gathered to discuss ideas related to culture, art, and global cooperation. The museum’s collections were also on display during the Exposition, attracting visitors from around the world and establishing the Art Institute as a prominent institution in the international art community. The Exposition was an incredibly important event for Chicago, as it put the city on the map in terms of culture, innovation, and design, and the Art Institute’s building played a central role in that narrative.
The Museum’s Role After the Exposition
After the World’s Columbian Exposition closed, the Art Institute’s building became a permanent fixture in Chicago, serving as a home for the museum’s collections and exhibitions. It has since undergone numerous expansions and renovations but has always remained an iconic symbol of the city’s commitment to culture and the arts. The building’s role in shaping the museum’s legacy is inseparable from the Art Institute’s identity, and it continues to be a vital part of the museum’s mission today.
For those interested in learning more about the museum's role in the Exposition, the Art Institute of Chicago offers a range of exhibits and educational programs that highlight the importance of the building’s historical context. Some of the best custom canvas prints from the Exposition can be found within the museum, providing a glimpse into the monumental scale and artistic achievements of the fair. These canvas prints capture the grandeur of the Exposition and showcase the pivotal role that the Art Institute’s building played in this landmark event.
These historical prints are more than just decorative pieces; they serve as a connection to the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the museum’s legacy and understand its impact on the cultural fabric of Chicago and the world. The custom canvas prints on display feature stunning images of the Exposition’s architecture, as well as photographs of the exhibits and visitors who attended the fair. These prints offer a fascinating look at the event from a visual perspective, showcasing the museum’s continued commitment to preserving the historical significance of the World’s Columbian Exposition.
Preserving History Through Art
As part of its mission to preserve and showcase art in all its forms, the Art Institute of Chicago is committed to educating the public about the historical events that shaped its collections and its building. The museum continues to acquire new pieces of art, while also preserving and restoring important works that reflect the cultural heritage of Chicago. By offering custom canvas prints that highlight the significance of the Art Institute’s role in the 1893 Exposition, the museum ensures that future generations will have access to these powerful pieces of history.
The museum also regularly hosts exhibits that explore the broader impact of the Exposition on American and global culture. These exhibits provide context for the Art Institute’s involvement in the fair and help visitors understand how the museum’s collections have evolved over time. Through these efforts, the Art Institute of Chicago remains a beacon of artistic achievement and a testament to the lasting legacy of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.
A Celebration of Chicago’s Cultural Legacy
This photo re-creation is more than just a tribute to the past. It’s a way to celebrate the museum’s place in Chicago’s history while also involving the community in the museum’s 125-year journey. The Art Institute of Chicago has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural fabric, and this event offers an opportunity for people from all walks of life to become a part of that ongoing story. By participating in the photo re-creation, individuals are not only helping to commemorate the museum's history but are actively contributing to its living legacy, making this an inclusive and shared experience that spans generations.
The final photograph, once taken, will become an important part of the museum’s historical record. The image will be shared on the Art Institute’s social media platforms, allowing people around the world to witness the fusion of the past and present. This digital sharing is particularly significant in an age where history and art are so easily accessible online. The museum’s social media channels will allow the public to engage with the photo, leaving comments, sharing memories, and reflecting on the connection between the museum, its history, and its ongoing influence on Chicago’s cultural landscape.
Additionally, the photo will become part of the museum’s extensive archives, which house a vast collection of images, documents, and materials related to the institution’s history. The Art Institute’s archives serve as a vital resource for researchers, historians, and art lovers who seek to understand the institution’s impact on the world of art and culture. By adding this photo to the archives, the museum ensures that this special moment—captured through the participation of the community—will be preserved for future generations to study and enjoy.
Custom Canvas Prints: Bringing History to Life
But the celebration doesn’t stop with digital shares and archival preservation. The photo re-creation will also be turned into custom canvas wall art, offering an opportunity for art enthusiasts, museum patrons, and visitors to own a piece of history. These canvas prints will feature the photo in all its glory, capturing the sense of community and history that was brought to life during the re-creation event. The canvas prints will be available for purchase as part of the museum’s anniversary collection, making it possible for individuals to take home a tangible reminder of the Art Institute’s legacy.
Each canvas will be produced using high-quality materials and printing techniques to ensure rich color reproduction, archival durability, and a professional finish worthy of gallery display. Whether displayed in a home, office, or educational space, these canvas prints serve as powerful visual storytelling tools—reminding viewers of the shared cultural moments that bring people together.
What makes these canvas prints even more special is their emotional value. For many participants, this re-creation event is not just a public gathering, but a deeply personal experience—a connection to family, tradition, and civic pride. Owning a canvas print of this moment allows them to keep that experience alive for years to come. It becomes a conversation piece, a source of inspiration, and a reflection of the museum’s mission to celebrate inclusivity and community engagement.
In addition to individual sales, a portion of proceeds from the canvas prints will support future community-based art programs and exhibitions at the Art Institute, continuing the legacy of accessibility and participation. These limited-edition prints won’t just decorate walls—they’ll help build future bridges between art, history, and the people who make both possible.
Canvas wall art has long been a popular way for people to celebrate and display art in their homes and offices. By transforming this iconic photo into a piece of wall art, the Art Institute is allowing people to connect with the museum’s history in a personal and meaningful way. Each custom canvas print will serve as a lasting tribute to the community’s role in preserving and celebrating the museum’s rich heritage. These prints will be more than just decorative pieces—they will serve as a reminder of the shared cultural experience that unites those who participated in the event and those who continue to support the museum's work.
Moreover, these custom canvas prints will be featured in the museum’s special anniversary collection, which will include other pieces that celebrate the Art Institute’s 125 years of artistic achievement. By making the photo available for purchase as part of the collection, the museum is offering a chance for people to own a piece of Chicago’s cultural history while also supporting the museum’s future growth and continued commitment to preserving and sharing art. The sales from these prints will help fund ongoing museum programs, exhibitions, and educational initiatives, ensuring that the Art Institute remains a vital part of the city's cultural life for years to come.
Strengthening Community Connections
This event also underscores the importance of the Art Institute’s role in fostering a sense of community. The museum is more than just a place where art is displayed—it is a gathering place for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and share in the experience of art and culture. By inviting the public to be a part of this special photo re-creation, the museum is reinforcing its mission to engage with the community in meaningful ways. This collaborative effort not only celebrates the museum’s past but also strengthens its bond with the people it serves.
As the final photograph is shared, displayed as canvas art, and stored in the museum’s archives, the sense of connection will endure. Future generations will look back at the photo and the story behind it, remembering the individuals who participated in the re-creation and the collective effort to honor the Art Institute’s 125-year history. It’s a celebration of both the museum’s legacy and the people who have supported and shaped its journey. Through this photo re-creation event, the museum ensures that its legacy is not only preserved in the past but also actively celebrated in the present.
Canvas Prints Bring Personal Stories to Life
One of the most exciting elements of the exhibition will be the inclusion of canvas prints submitted by members of the public. These prints will display personal photographs, original artwork, and family memories—transformed into gallery-quality pieces. Canvas prints offer a warm, timeless aesthetic that blends beautifully with the traditional museum setting. This visual fusion of personal stories on canvas and historic masterpieces creates a powerful narrative that connects the past with the present in a tangible, artistic form.
A Unique Blend of Personal and Historical Narratives
Alongside the canvas prints, community-submitted photos, stories, and illustrations will be exhibited with artifacts and art from the museum’s permanent collection. These contributions will help tell a richer, more inclusive story—one that highlights the diversity and vibrancy of the local community. By incorporating personal narratives and creative works from the community, the Art Institute is not only showcasing its own history but also amplifying the voices and experiences of those who have shaped Chicago’s cultural landscape. This collective approach invites a deeper connection between the museum and the public, fostering a greater sense of belonging and shared identity within the museum space.
Hands-On Activities and Digital Preservation
Workshops and interactive sessions will also be part of the celebration, enabling guests of all ages to explore their artistic abilities under the guidance of professionals. Children can participate in hands-on art activities, while adults can engage in discussions and lectures on art, history, and the power of personal storytelling. The museum also plans to create a digital archive of all submissions, including high-resolution scans of the canvas prints, preserving these contributions as part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Fostering Connection and Belonging
This initiative is particularly meaningful in a time when communities are seeking connection and belonging. By welcoming all voices and encouraging shared participation, the Art Institute is not only curating art but also nurturing empathy, understanding, and unity. Events like these help build stronger ties between museums and the people they serve, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in cultural institutions.
In a world that often feels divided, such inclusive efforts serve as reminders of our shared humanity. When people see their stories, faces, and heritage reflected on museum walls, it reinforces the idea that everyone’s history matters—and that art can be a bridge, not a barrier.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Art Institute’s upcoming event is more than just a display of art—it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of inclusivity and collaboration. From personal canvas prints to public stories and creative expressions, every contribution adds value. By opening its doors to everyone, the museum is making a bold statement: that art is not just for the privileged few, but for all. As Kati Murphy expressed, this commitment to inclusivity is not just a temporary gesture—it’s part of the museum’s enduring civic mission. This is a rare and beautiful opportunity for individuals from all walks of life to become part of something bigger than themselves—a shared legacy in the world of art.
