TEDxChicago’s highly anticipated “Lighting the Way” event is set to take place on September 27, 2024, at the Harris Theater. The theme this year centers on illuminating fresh ideas, and we’re excited to be a part of it. Our role at ArtVersion is to craft a visual experience that captures the essence of such a dynamic lineup of speakers and performances, bringing the event’s mission to life through impactful design.
This year, TEDxChicago engaged ArtVersion team to develop the event’s graphics and help with event branding, ensuring a cohesive look and feel that unites the ideas being shared on stage. From creating a bold and inspiring design language to enhancing the visual experience, our goal is to reflect the innovative spirit of the speakers and performers while making the event visually unforgettable.
At ArtVersion, we’ve always believed in the power of design to elevate storytelling, and this collaboration is an opportunity for us to bring that belief to life. Our team is focusing on ensuring that the visual identity for TEDxChicago doesn’t just support the event but enhances every element—from the talks themselves to the performances and audience experience. The “Lighting the Way” theme gave us a great challenge, one where we could design a cohesive, engaging atmosphere that unites a diverse range of voices.
And what a lineup of voices it is. Here’s a look at some of the standout speakers we’ll be designing for:
• Carol Ross Barney, known as The People’s Architect, is all about collective action and shaping the city of the future. She’s bringing her deep experience in urban architecture to talk about how we can make cities more inclusive and sustainable.
• Dr. Lia Merminga, Laboratory Director at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, will dive into the big questions—quite literally. Her work on the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) is pushing the boundaries of what we know about dark matter and the universe itself.
• Erika Allen, Founder and CEO of Urban Growers Collective, is going to explore how we can build regenerative economic systems that incorporate renewable energy and sustainable food production, all while addressing economic and social justice.
• Abby Clary, Healthcare Architect at CannonDesign, will focus on how we can design healthcare spaces that are humane and inclusive, reflecting the real needs of those who use them. It’s about listening, and we love that this design approach aligns with our own focus on user-centered solutions.
• Michael E. Papka, Director of the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, will be talking about Aurora, the country’s fastest exascale computer. We’re excited to see how this technology is driving innovation across the sciences.
• Dr. Mark Hersam, a professor at Northwestern, is tackling the future of AI, focusing on energy-efficient computing. His research is all about making AI more sustainable, which is something we think is incredibly relevant to the future of both technology and design.
• Scheherazade Tillet, Co-Founder of A Long Walk Home, will bring the conversation back to social justice, focusing on gender-based violence and how art can play a role in healing. Her work is an inspiring reminder of how creativity can drive meaningful change.
• Prof. Alessandro Rotta Loria, from Northwestern, will introduce us to geothermal energy innovations. His talk centers on capturing ground heat to reduce energy consumption, a concept that could reshape how we think about energy use in cities.
• Vanessa Harris, CEO at Strategy for Access Foundation (StrAF), will remind us that inclusivity doesn’t just mean accessibility—it should also be about joy. She’s leading a conversation on designing spaces that allow people with disabilities to fully experience the world around them.
• Scheherazade Tillet, Executive Director of A Long Walk Home, Scheherazade Tillet is an artist, feminist, and activist dedicated to ending violence against women and girls. Combining art therapy, photography, and activism, her work focuses on raising awareness and driving social change through creative expression. She brings her powerful perspective on healing and advocacy, inspiring others to challenge and transform the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
In addition to these inspiring talks, there will be performances by artists such as 40+ Double Dutch Club, DJ Lady D, J. Ivy, JB ELITE, MOMENTA, Adrian Stein, Eva Carlini, EWRKS (David Ellis Flynn), Miracle Bailey aka DJ Mo Milli, Movement Revolution Dance Crew, Raspy Rivera, Roy McGrath Trio, Tobi Shinobi, Tuan Jones, Willea Zwey, and Yufei and Tim Tango. Their contributions will add a layer of creativity and energy to the event, making the day not just intellectually stimulating but artistically engaging.
A big thank you also goes out to the Tastes and Sips partners who will be providing food and refreshments throughout the event. We’d like to acknowledge Boxed Water, Chicago French Press, Goose Island Beer Co., NWB Co, Cruz Blanca, Love Cork Screw, Haymarket, Old Irving Brewing Co., Visitor, Egg Rools Etc., Pause, Miss Chippy, Gayle V’s, Mesler, Kappo By Tron, Nellie’s Restaurant, Banato, Soul & Smoke, Beautiful Events, and Island Party Hut for their support in making TEDxChicago an even more memorable experience.
Tickets for TEDxChicago’s “Lighting the Way” are available now, and we’re excited to see everyone come together for what promises to be an unforgettable event.