Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell Coming Soon

Chicago — Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell, the first exhibition dedicated to the work of visionary, award-winning costume and fashion designer Paul Tazewell, premieres at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry on Jan. 19, 2026. The exhibition explores Tazewell’s work and process from his childhood creations through his costumes for legendary projects like Hamilton, West Side Story and Wicked.  

“This exhibition is a great privilege and honor,” Tazewell said. “Being invited to share my work in a way that will be engaging and immersive, and to be able to invite others into that experience means so much to me.”

This deeply personal exhibition is a multimedia experience in the Museum’s newest space, the immersive Griffin Studio, guided by Tazewell’s own words and vision. Displays of his masterpieces combined with his narration and behind-the-scenes video, photos and sketches draw back the curtain to show how imagination becomes reality.  

Highlights include:  

• Various costumes from Wicked including: Glinda’s pink bubble dress and Elphaba’s Emerald City dress
• Janelle Monae MET Gala looks
• Costumes, including Anita's yellow dress, from Steven Spielberg's West Side Story
• Costumes from Broadway's Hamilton including the Schuyler Sisters’ Winter’s Ball gowns; Hamilton, Jefferson and Burr's suits; and King George III’s outfit

“At Griffin MSI, we believe that if you can see it, you can be it, and Paul and his work is a shining example of that notion,” said Dr. Chevy Humphrey, Griffin MSI CEO and President. “Through this exhibition and his personal story, he shows how imagination can become reality. Following his ideas from creation to conception offers a spark of inspiration for the next generation of innovators and creators who visit the Museum every day.”  

Paul Tazewell’s work in theater, film and television spans three decades and has received multiple accolades. Most recently, he made history as the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Costume Design on Wicked. Additional recognitions include Tony Awards for Death Becomes Her and Hamilton on Broadway, an Emmy for The Wiz! Live, and an Academy Award nomination for West Side Story.

Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell is included in General Admission.  

Images for download: Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell Media Kit  

Photo credit listed under image details 

Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Griffin MSI) offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that support the Museum's mission: to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. As one of the largest science museums in the world featuring award-winning exhibits and hands-on activities, a visit to Griffin MSI is guaranteed to connect fun and learning. Griffin MSI is committed to offering comprehensive educational programs ­for students, administrators, teachers and families that make a difference in local communities and contribute to Griffin MSI's goal to transform and illuminate STE(A)M (science, technology, engineering, art and math) pathways for people of all ages. The Museum is grateful for the support of generous donors and guests who make its work possible. Griffin MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit griffinmsi.org or call (773) 684-1414.