The Museum of Science and Industry’s Black Creativity program kicks off in just a couple weeks on January 15 and runs through February 21. This celebration spotlights the inventions, art and achievements made by African Americans through hands-on workshops in our Innovation Studio, a Career Showcase, the longest-running art gallery of African-American art, and more.
Family Day January 15, 2018
Join us for the Black Creativity Family Day on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a free day for Illinois residents. The Juried Art Exhibition and Innovation Studio are also open to the public.
Juried Art Exhibition January 15, 2018 - February 21, 2018
The Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition features more than 100 dynamic works – including paintings, sculpture and mixed-media – from African-American artists across the country, chosen by a panel of five jurors.Displayed annually at MSI since 1970, the Juried Art Exhibition is the longest-running gallery of African-American art. For the seventh year, a youth category offers opportunities for high school students to have their work shown in the exhibition. The Juried Art Exhibition is included in Museum Entry.From the exhibition, the panel selects first, second and third place overall show winners, as well as a winner in each medium category and overall in the youth category. The winners are recognized at a Juried Art Reception, held on February 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Innovation Studio January 15 - February 21, 2018
The Innovation Studio provides a creative space for guests, with the guidance of MSI Facilitators, to become inventors and innovators themselves! Powered by guests’ own curiosity, and inspired by our gallery of local innovators, guests will have access to a variety of materials and tools to create prototypes that solve issues that impact their lives, communities and more.The space will be open to the general public daily beginning January 15 through February 21; facilitated session times are offered at various times throughout the day. School and community groups may contact MSI’s Group Center at 773-684-1414 to reserve a workshop. The Innovation Studio is included in Museum Entry.
Career Showcase February 24, 2018, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Career Showcase offers guests the chance to explore innovative careers by speaking straight to the innovators themselves. Professionals in art, science and engineering will be stationed throughout the Museum for hands-on activities and one-on-one discussions.
Jr. Science Cafés Weekdays in February and March
School groups can reserve 30-minute sessions with a scientist or engineer in the Jr. Science Cafés during Black Creativity. Each session is an exciting opportunity for students to interact with professionals and learn about cutting-edge research from experts. To book a school group session, call (773) 684-1414.
The Black Creativity Gala January 27, 2018
The Black Creativity Gala, which will be held at the Museum on January 27, 2018, raises money to support all the programming. Additional opportunities to learn from STEM professionals will be offered throughout the year as part of the Black Creativity program.
Visit the Museum’s website at msichicago.org/blackcreativity for a full list of events.
Black Creativity 2018 is presented by Allstate. Black Creativity partners are Powers and Sons Construction Company, ComEd, Dover Inc., ITW, Nicor Gas, Northern Trust and Peoples Gas. United Airlines is the official airline of Black Creativity.
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), one of the largest science museums in the world, offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. From groundbreaking and award-winning exhibits that can’t be found anywhere else, to hands-on opportunities that make you the scientist—a visit to MSI is where fun and learning mix. Through its Welcome to Science Initiative, the Museum offers a variety of student, teacher and family programs that make a difference in communities and contribute to MSI’s larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. Come visit and find your inspiration! MSI is open 9:30–4 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered during peak periods. The Museum is grateful for the support of its donors and guests, who make its work possible. MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414.#