Chicago Ideas Portrait Stage Installation

Tim Klein partnered with Chicago Ideas Week to create a striking visual installation for three separate main stage venues during the organization’s citywide event series. Over the course of three days, he photographed more than 70 volunteers, capturing portraits that celebrated the diversity, dedication, and energy of the community supporting Chicago Ideas.

In addition to photographing the subjects, Tim collaborated closely with the creative and production team to shape the visual direction of the stage design. The final portraits were printed on a combination of transparent fabric panels and rigid boards, designed specifically for each venue’s unique layout and architecture.

Each of the three main stages featured its own custom-built set. These large-scale portrait installations added a bold, human-centered backdrop to each theater, activating the spaces with layered visuals, emotional resonance, and a strong sense of presence.

By combining photography, design, and architectural scale, the project brought individual faces into collective focus—reflecting the mission of Chicago Ideas to elevate community, storytelling, and participation through creativity, visibility, and authentic connection.