The 2018 Black Creativity Program kicks off in January at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. The annual program focuses on innovation, honors legacy of African-American innovators
The 2018 Black Creativity program, an annual tradition at MSI, kicks off on January 15. This month-long celebration honors the rich contributions and achievements made by African Americans while working to inspire children to develop their creativity in science, technology, engineering and math to become the innovators of tomorrow.
During Black Creativity, which coincides with Black History Month, guests will have the opportunity to take part in several experiences at MSI through February 21, including Family Day, the Juried Art Exhibition, Innovation Studio, Career Showcase, and much more. Black Creativity focuses on innovation, inspiring children to develop their creativity and become the inventors of tomorrow.
Family Day | January 15, 2018Join 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, 2018The 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, 2018The 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.
