Location: Chicago, IL

Client: Art Institute of Chicago

Completed: 2014

Size: 400 Square Feet

Running in conjunction with The Art Institute’s James Ensor exhibition, PUPPETS! provided an interactive space where visitors could experiment and perform with different types of puppets.

Space Haus designed four unique components for the space, including window silhouettes, a shadow theater, mobile puppet cart and window ledge puppet display. The main element, a large shadow theater had built-in lighting and storage. The facade was inspired by the seaside towns of Belgium, where artist James Ensor lived and worked. Bright colors and architectural detailing helped bring the space to life. Careful consideration of all prospective users resulted in a democratic space where individuals of all ages and abilities could participate.

Due to its popularity, this temporary exhibit ran for 6 months (3 months longer than planned).

Space Haus oversaw all aspects of the exhibit, from conceptual design to construction drawings to installation of the final pieces.