Program
Chicago Reflected: A Book Talk and River Cruise with Author Ryan Chester
Step into the world of Architect Ryan Chester, whose passion for the city's beauty led him to embark on an awe-inspiring project in March 2020. With nothing but a pen in hand, Ryan set out to capture the Chicago River, its architectural marvels, bustling boats, and bridges, culminating in a breathtaking 55-foot-long masterpiece.
Join us on Thursday, May 23 for an exclusive event like no other. Ryan Chester will unveil the secrets behind his magnum-opus, "Chicago Reflected," at Chicago Architecture Center starting at 5:30 p.m. Get a peek into his creative process, inspirations, and the journey of bringing "Chicago Reflected" to life. The program doesn't end there, at 7 p.m., set sail with Ryan Chester and the renowned Geoffrey Baer for an iconic river cruise, where you'll have the unique opportunity to witness the masterpiece of "Chicago Reflected" against the stunning backdrop of Chicago's skyline. Tickets to this event include the book talk at 5:30 p.m. and the river cruise departing at 7:00 p.m. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event, where art, architecture, and the iconic Chicago River come together.
Ryan Chester
Ryan Chester is an architect based in Chicago. He grew up in Milwaukee and attended the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee (UWM); School of Architecture and Urban Planning where he graduated with a master’s degree in architecture in 2005. Upon graduation Ryan worked in New York and London before returning to the Midwest where he has been since 2011. Along with his work as an architect and drawing projects, Ryan is also an adjunct professor at his alma mater UWM where he has taught design studios and intro to architecture seminars. He lives in the Roscoe Village Neighborhood of Chicago and is planning his next project…
Geoffrey Baer
Geoffrey Baer is an eight-time Emmy-winning Public Television writer, producer, and program host. He has been a fixture on Chicago’s PBS station WTTW for 30 years, best known as the host and writer of WTTW’s popular specials about the architecture and history of Chicago and its suburban areas.
Geoffrey has been a docent for the Chicago Architecture Center since 1987. In addition to his Emmy Awards, he has been honored by the American Institute of Architects Chicago, the Society of Architectural Historians, the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and the Chicago Headline Club