What does your Chicago look like? How would you capture the city's culture, sounds and history? But more importantly, how would you bring that vision to life using LEGO bricks? Here's your chance to help create a timeline of Chicago's past, present and future.
We’re inviting creators, builders, and dreamers of all ages to be part of an exciting new LEGO exhibit that reimagines Chicago’s history through the design of LEGO bricks. From the city’s iconic skyscrapers and hidden neighborhood gems to locals’ favorites like pizza and Italian beef, this exhibit aims to celebrate the city’s vibrant culture, rich history and defining architecture, one brick at a time.
LEGO Model of the 1893 World’s Fair Ferris WheelDesigned by Randall Wilson II. Photo provided by CPL Staff.
Grey baseplate with artifact.Photo provided by CPL Staff.
LEGO creator-rotor rescue 5866
Box of LEGO Bricks on BookshelfPhoto provided by CPL Staff.
Tiny Traveler and Their Big BookLEGO Minifigure resting on the edge of a hardcover book. Photo provided by CPL Staff.
Need inspiration? Browse CPL's Digital Collections, opens a new window, which feature historical materials from our three archival repositories: Special Collections, opens a new window, Northside Neighborhood History Collections, opens a new window and the Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection. Also consider contacting us to learn more about our archives and check out Explore Chicago Collections, opens a new window for additional inspiration from other archives and libraries with Chicago history collections.
Selected artists will have their models featured in an exhibition at the Harold Washington Library Center’s 9th Floor Gallery, beginning April 2026.
Application Information:
Harold Washington Library Center is located at 400 S. State Street, Chicago 60605.
Submission Guidelines:
- Build your LEGO model inspired by Chicago architecture, events, people, neighborhoods, food, music, parks, culture, or history
- Provide three high-quality photos of your completed build/model as well as dimensions
- Write a brief, engaging description that explains the design and inspiration
- Include contact information, email, and phone number, and your name as you would like it to appear in the exhibit
- Submit your entry by Monday, December 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM.
- Selected participants will be announced January 5, 2026.
- Email entries and all questions to specoll@chipublib.org
Important Note: LEGO bricks will not be provided. All models/designs must be completed off-site and dropped off at the library.