New exhibit and programming series, "American Prophets: Scribes, Religion, and Cultural Impact," now available at the American Writers Museum.
The American Writers Museum in Chicago is set to launch an exciting new exhibit and programming series titled "American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture." This special event, scheduled for November 2025, is supported by the Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative.
The exhibit will delve into the intersections between American writers and religion, showcasing how religion and spirituality influence American literature and culture. It will cover a wide range of religious experiences and perspectives, including Christianity, Agnosticism, Atheism, Baha'i, Buddhism, Hinduism, Humanism, Indigenous spiritualities, Islam, Judaism, Scientology, and Taoism.
While more details on the writers and works featured in the exhibit will be announced later this year, examples of objects to be displayed include Flannery O'Connor's rosary, Ursula K. Le Guin's annotated Tao Te Ching, and Louie Pérez's statue of the Santo Niño de Atocha. The exhibit will feature rare artifacts, interactive displays, and creative works spanning literature, film, music, comedy, and more.
The programming for American Prophets began with the free event "Making New Gods" in partnership with the Chicago Public Library on April 22 at the Harold Washington Library Center. Notable authors who spoke at the event include N.K. Jemisin, Nnedi Okorafor, Nghi Vo, and Matthew Kirby.
The American Prophets programming includes public events, field trip curriculum, podcasts, and additional online content. AWM President Carey Cranston emphasized the importance of exploring religion to remain true to the museum's mission.
In a unique twist, the exhibit will also include a touring version of the special exhibit Dark Testament: A Century of Black Writers on Justice. Currently on view at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Dark Testament explores the enduring impact of Black writers from the end of the Civil War through the Civil Rights era, inspired by the work of Pauli Murray.
Whether you're a literature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the intersections between religion and culture, the American Writers Museum's American Prophets: Writers, Religion & Culture exhibit promises to be an enlightening and engaging experience. Tickets are priced at $16 for adults, $10 for seniors, students, and teachers, and free for members and children ages 12 and under. The museum is located at 180 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601.
Join us in November 2025 as we delve into the world of American literature and religion, and explore the impact of writing on understanding religion and its relationship with American culture.
- In addition to the exhibit on American writers and religion, one can also expect to find displays related to fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, cars, and shopping at the American Writers Museum, making it an all-encompassing cultural experience.
- Aside from literature, the American Prophets programming series will also feature podcasts, offering insights into various aspects of society, including the intersection of fashion-and-beauty and religion.
- On your next trip to Chicago, don't forget to visit the American Writers Museum and explore their shops, where you can find unique items that reflect the diverse influences in American lifestyle, including fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden items.
- While at the American Writers Museum, take a moment to visit their pet-friendly areas, offering a space for pet lovers to enjoy their visit together with their furry friends.
