Beginning in August 2015, 30 statues across Chicago will speak their minds! Statue Stories Chicago has brought to life 30 existing statues ranging from historical figures like Abraham Lincoln to the lions that stand in front of the Art Institute of Chicago and more abstract artworks such as “Cloud Gate,” known as the Bean, the icon of downtown’s Millennium Park. Each statue tells a compelling story. Collectively they tell Chicago's story. How does the Chicago Picasso feel about being climbed upon? Is there animosity between the two lions guarding the Art Institute of Chicago? And why does Leif Erikson think he discovered America? To hear them speak, you'll need to pay them a visit.
Pass a Talking Statue, swipe a smartphone on a nearby plaque and get a call back from the likes of Abe Lincoln, Copernicus or Chicago's Miro. The all star cast list includes Bob Newhart, Elizabeth McGovern, John C. Reilly, Renée Fleming, Johnny Galecki, Mandy Patinkin, David Schwimmer, Shonda Rhimes, Joan Allen, Bill Kurtis, Amy Morton, Bob Balaban, Malcolm London, Jon Michael Hill and Tom Berenger.
Chicago Public Library is pleased to partner with Statue Stories Chicago on this exciting public art project. You can explore more:
- Visit talking statues all around Chicago this year! A full list and downloadable map of statues is available on the Statue Stories Chicago website.
- Learn more about statues with our Statue Stories reading list.
- Come hear Chicago Park District historian Julia S. Bachrach speak about Chicago’s statues at 6 p.m. Tuesday, September 29 at Harold Washington Library Center.
- Participate in the Statue Stories Chicago Competition to give a voice to one of Chicago's statues. Learn more about the competition and enter. Need help? You can attend a workshop and learn how to write for a statute.
