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Marc Chagall's


America Windows

AT THE ART INSTITUTE
OF CHICAGO

Photo by Eric Hausman

Marc Chagall’s iconic America Windows were originally installed in 1976 in the Art Institute’s then-new Columbus Drive building. After over three decades in place, the windows were relocated for improved conservation conditions and better visitor flow. Now the centerpiece of a permanent installation about public art in Chicago, the windowless location required a creative solution to simulate daylight within a tight and difficult to access space.

The architectural solution carves a new gallery out of a former coatroom, matching the configuration and proportions of the original installation. Access is provided through one of the faux columns that divide the glass pieces, and ventilation is achieved through the platform toekick.

Lighting Solutions

The challenge was to convincingly simulate daylight without any visible light sources or drop off at the edges, while minimizing access and energy consumption and working within a very shallow space behind the glass.

The solution, developed in collaboration with Thomas Paterson of Lux Populi, combines a seemingly infinite wall of high efficiency fluorescent fixtures with a two-layer diffusing curtain.

This project was a collaboration of the Art Institute of Chicago, Vinci | Hamp Architects, Lux Populi (lighting design) and general contractor Pepper Construction. Field Guide principal Daniel Roush directed the project for Vinci | Hamp.

Photo by Eric Hausman
Marc Chagall. America Windows, 1977. A gift of Marc Chagall, City of Chicago, and the Auxiliary Board, commemorating the American bicentennial in memory of Mayor Richard J.Daley.