Bringing a stroke of innovation to the classic fairground atmosphere, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology has announced an engaging showcase set to alight the 2024 Illinois State Fair. With a theme that intertwines the state's film legacy with a forward-looking approach to STEAM, "Lights, Camera, STEAM Action!" is poised to celebrate the intertwined worlds of art and science.
Governor JB Pritzker expressed his enthusiasm, "There's no place like the Illinois State Fair to see what makes Illinois truly exceptional," in a statement. " 'Lights, Camera, STEAM Action!' perfectly captures our state's spirit, blending our rich film heritage with our commitment to innovation." The fair's narrative acts not only as an homage to Illinois' cinematic contributions but also as a vision board for economic progress through the lens of the film industry.
DoIT's Secretary and State CIO Sanjay Gupta highlighted the objective of the event, predicting it to "captivate and inspire attendees with cutting edge technology and creative, interactive exhibits." DoIT has generated partnerships across Illinois to create an intricate web of STEAM activities and demonstrations for all ages, under the glittering marquee of the state's historic film scene.
Events scheduled to range from a 3-D printing activity mimicking Abraham Lincoln and John Malkovich to thought-provoking science experiments and digitally enhanced career discovery, with touchpoints to cinema classics including "Lincoln," Groundhog Day," and "High Fidelity." Demonstrations of Google-led AI adventures, and a robotics challenge bearing the playful essence of "Toy Story 4", are also in the mix. These events, according to Gupta, are set against a backdrop of the state fair's enduring charm and ubiquitous familial appeal.
The 2024 Illinois State Fair takes an inclusive approach by integrating educational opportunities, such as the August 13 demonstrations of assistive technologies from the Illinois Assistive Technology Program. These demonstrations are designed to reflect the spirit of inclusion, much like Marlee Matlin's acclaimed portrayal in "CODA." Moreover, aspiring young engineers will get a chance to immerse themselves in a robotics challenge on August 18, hosted by the Techno Tigers FIRST Robotics Team.
From August 8 to 17, DoIT's presence at the Governor's Tent will capture the synergistic dynamism between the silver screen and the cutting-edge scene, inviting all attendees to explore the possibilities within STEAM.
