As a part of National Design month, the IDSA Chicago Chapter along with the University of Illinois Chicago came together for an amazing presentation given by Chuck Harrison on April 4th. The presentation took place at the UIC Art & Architecture Building, and attracted many students and Design professionals, as well as Chicago's WGN news.

Chuck Harrison, a long-time Chicago professor and the first African-American executive to be hired by Sears Roebuck, spoke of his life's works as captured in his newly released memoir, A Life's Design. Chuck has had a hand in designing many of the 20th Century American icons, including the Viewmaster and original Craftsman riding lawnmower.



Vicki Matranga, a design historian, began the presentation with a heartfelt and welcoming introduction, sharing a background on Chuck's life and designs. This followed by Chuck's inspiring and sometimes-humorous life stories, as well as examples of his wonderful designs and hand renderings.



A book signing and reception followed the presentation, and was a great opportunity for designers to purchase Chuck's memoir and mingle while looking at old Sears Roebuck catalogs and other of Chuck's designs that were displayed around the room.

A recap of the night's events will broadcast on Chicago's WGN 9PM news on April 26.