Rooted in Greatness

Rooted in Greatness is a free video art installation that honors 40 noteworthy Illinoisans in celebration of Illinois’ Bicentennial. As the sun sets. each night, three trees will come alive with the images and stories of these luminaries in Illinois history. You’ll learn the fascinating stories of Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama; cultural giants Walt Disney and Oprah Winfrey and more. As videos of their faces are projected into the trees at the corner of Cermak and Calumet, accompanying audio shares a brief bio of each individual. Rooted in Greatness was inspired by the theme of the Illinois Bicentennial -- BORN, BUILT AND GROWN. The trees are a metaphor for the their long-lasting impact, while the projections serve as the reminders of their legacies. Thanks to the roots established by countless individuals like those being showcased, Illinois has continued to grow and flourish.