The Silk Road and Beyond: Travel, Trade, and Transformation was an exhibition of works from the permanent collections of the Art Institute that reveal cross-cultural connections. The exhibition included a brief introduction to the process of making silk and to precious goods as diverse as silk, ceramics, and tulips, which were traded between Asia and Europe. Works selected were produced by artists who represent four continents and span more than 2,000 years. In addition to the artworks on display in two orientation galleries, the exhibition continued throughout the museum, where nearly 150 artworks that demonstrate international cultural exchange were highlighted.

Looking for more information about the Silk Road? Here are some places to start.

The Silk Road and Beyond: Exhibition Web Site
Learn about the Silk Road Chicago season and view images of objects related to the Silk Road in the Art Institute’s collection.

The Silk Road Project
Find curriculum materials and background information about the Silk Road from the Silk Road Project, an organization founded by the musician Yo Yo Ma.

Stanford Program on International and Cross-Cultural Education
Browse and purchase curriculum materials, including the teacher manual “Along the Silk Road”.

Art Institute of Chicago Teacher Resources
Download the teacher self-guide “Traveling the Silk Road and Beyond” as well as poster packets about the Silk Road and Asian art.

_{Saftleven, Cornelis. A Camel, unknown. Clarence Buckingham Collection.}