“This exhibit merges nature, art, and storytelling, creating a memorable experience for all in Chicago. Local artists have adorned aluminum butterfly sculptures with original designs, expressing their unique connections to nature, and creating breathtaking larger-than-life pieces. Each butterfly is a testament to the artist, their journey, and their connection to nature, and this project uniquely intertwines artistic expression with a call to action for wildlife conservation.”

— Peggy Noetbaert Nature Musem

FLIGHT OF BUTTERFLIES - PEGGY NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM

We had the amazing opportunity to collaborate with the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum to curate and manage Flight of Butterflies, a beautiful public art initiative highlighting nature, art and storytelling in Chicago through 29 butterfly sculptures.

Each sculpture was designed and fabricated by ChiLab Studio whom also provided space for artists to work, along with material education and resources. All artwork was installed by Terry Karpowicz Studio with ongoing advising from Michael Dimitroff.

29 Butterflies are installed throughout Chicago from July 19, 2024 - August 2025 due to wonderful partnerships with the Chicago Park District (who hosts 15 in natural areas in our south and west side parks, 4 in Lincoln Park and 1 at the Nature Museum) and The Magnificent Mile® Association (who hosts 10 on Michigan Avenue).

Artists & Organizations: Alice Hargrave, Ariée - Arts of Life, Azadeh Hussaini, Candace Hunter, Cydney Lewis, Englewood Arts Collective - JoVonna Jackson & Janell Nelson, Environmental Graphiti by Alisa Singer, Gawaapi-Negwes White, Hector Duarte, Ignite Glass, Isaac Couch, James Jankowiak, Jordan Martins, Leonard Suryajaya, Liz Flores, Luis De La Torre, Maria Burundarena, Marwen - Lab Residency, Mayumi Lake, Melanie Vazquez, Moises Salazar Tlatenchi, Nnenna Okore, Olya Salimova, RAHMAAN STATIK, Ravi Arupa - Red Line Service Lead Artist, Rubén Aguirre, Salvador Andrade Arévalo, Social Works - Kahari Black, William Estrada, Yvette Mayorga.