Art Institute of Chicago Launches First Children's Alphabet Book in Decades

Art Institute of Chicago Launches First Children’s Alphabet Book in Decades

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The Art Institute of Chicago releases its first children’s book in two decades

“We wanted to include icons of the museum’s collection, like Georges Seurat’s ‘Sunday on La Grande Jatte’ and Georgia O’Keeffe’s ‘Sky Above Clouds IV,’” Robin Schnur said. This effort to bridge the gap between fine art and early childhood literacy has culminated in the release of ABCs at the Art Institute of Chicago, the museum’s first dedicated children’s book in 20 years, as reported by Block Club Chicago.

The publication marks a strategic return to a format that has historically resonated with the museum’s audience. According to Katie Reilly, the museum’s Associate Vice President of Publishing, alphabet books have long been among the Art Institute’s “perennial best sellers.” By creating an in-house version, the institution is attempting to translate its vast, often intimidating collection into a medium that facilitates early childhood development and family engagement.

The book, which launched in October, is more than a simple primer; it is a curated journey through the museum’s diverse holdings. It begins with a 1520 South German piece titled “Armor for Man and Horse” from the George F. Harding Collection and concludes with a graphic textile of zebras by Victor Vasarely. Along the way, the text guides young readers through works by Bisa Butler, Rufino Tamayo, Hashiguchi Goyo, and Nam June Paik, while also honoring local heritage through a print by the late Tony Fitzpatrick and the museum’s iconic lion statues by Edward Kemeys.

Bridging the gap between galleries and the home

For many families, the sheer scale of a major metropolitan museum can be overwhelming. The new book seeks to mitigate this by offering a “sweet spot” for children aged 2 to 5, though the creators note its utility extends to older children as well. The goal is to use the book as a tool for both literacy and visual literacy—teaching children not just how to read words, but how to interpret the visual language of art.

“We hope this book will spark a love of language, a love of art and a lifelong connection to the Art Institute of Chicago.”

Robin Schnur, the Woman’s Board Executive Director at the Ryan Learning Center, emphasized that the selection process was rigorous. While many beloved pieces were omitted, the final 26 works were chosen to be “playful and surprising.” Beyond the aesthetic value, the book serves a practical archival purpose. Reilly noted that while many of the featured works are currently on display, the book provides a rare opportunity to introduce families to items that are often tucked away in storage, such as photography, drawings, and textiles.

Art institute of chicago

This approach addresses a common challenge in museum education: maintaining engagement outside the physical walls of the institution. By making the collection portable and accessible, the museum is attempting to foster a sense of familiarity that may encourage future visits. There is an inherent economic and social stake here; as museums compete for attention in a digital age, creating tangible, educational products like this can solidify a community’s relationship with local cultural pillars.

The book is available for $15 at the museum’s shop, online, and through every branch of the Chicago Public Library, ensuring that the collection is accessible even to those who may not be able to visit the Modern Wing in person.

A community celebration at the Ryan Learning Center

To mark the release, the Art Institute is hosting a family day event this Saturday at the Ryan Learning Center, located in the Modern Wing across from Millennium Park. The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is designed to turn the book’s themes into tactile experiences.

First Visit To The Art Institute Chicago.

Planned activities include:

  • Live readings led by Chicago librarian Megan McFarlane and artist Annie Kielman.
  • Art-making sessions involving clay, collage, and watercolor.
  • Family-friendly interactive stations designed to encourage creative expression.

The book was a collaborative effort between Maura Flood, the Ryan Learning Center Director of Creative Spaces and Special Projects, and Robin Schnur. Their work aims to represent the “breadth and diversity” of the collection, ensuring that the next generation of Chicagoans sees themselves reflected in the halls of the Art Institute.

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