Art of the Sign
2026-01-01 00:00 - 2026-09-06 23:59 (America/Chicago)
Bill Christman, founder of Beatnik Bob’s, was a close friend of Bob and Gail Cassilly and has had a lasting impression on City Museum. The area dubbed “Museum of Mirth, Mystery and Mayhem,” which includes Beatnik Bob’s, was established when City Museum opened in 1997. It has hosted a myriad of exhibits, including the now iconic giant underwear. Throughout the years, this space has had carnival-like atmosphere with live music, portraitures, psychics, a History of the Corn Dog exhibit, and mankind’s search for nougat.

Prior to his time at City Museum, Bill was the head artist of Christman Studios, where he designed and produced signs, exhibits, sculpture, and theatrical scenery. This exhibit will celebrate Bill’s sign work, highlight the uniqueness of hand-painted signs, and explore the definition of what makes a sign. In Bill’s own words, “The visitor should feel elevated upon perusing.”

Opening ReceptionFriday, June 6 from 5pm–7pmBeatnik Bob’s (3rd Floor)

Exhibit DatesFriday, June 6, 2025 – Monday, Sept. 7, 2026Beatnik Bob’s and Museum of Mirth, Mystery and Mayhem (3rd Floor)

Included with General Admission or Member Pass.
