Kiam: Garden of Decay in Chicago

Every collaboration with Kiam is an inspiring experience. "Garden of Decay" at Navy Pier's Crystal Gardens was the last event to be held here. The Crystal Gardens, a 1-acre indoor garden accessible to the public, is closing its doors.

The immersive experience has visitors follow a once-famed genetic plant lab and a grieving botanist’s desperate quest for resurrection. The journey through "Garden of Decay" unfolds as follows:

Kiam was the creator for the stage of depression and mummification. The vision for this part of the journey was both haunting and beautiful, reflecting the deep emotions associated with loss and transformation. One of the most poignant elements of the installation is Kiam's acknowledgment of the thriving plants of the Crystal Gardens. These plants deserved a dignified farewell celebration before their removal, as they turned carbon dioxide into oxygen, serving all who visited with clean air and life.

Alicia Diamond