Chick-fil-A: Custom Exhibition

Exhibition Overview

This exhibition was commissioned for the Chick-fil-A “Next 26” conference in San Diego and reflects the company’s history, enduring values, and forward-looking vision through a body of sculptural work. Built from visual languages developed across different bodies of work, the installation combines representational imagery, gradients, shaped panels, and precisely drilled compositions in a way that allows distinct forms to speak within a single narrative. Following the conference, the exhibition will travel to Chick-fil-A’s Atlanta headquarters for permanent display.

Structure & Material

The exhibition comprises eight unique artworks, including a twenty-foot-wide event logo piece. Together, the works are constructed from sixteen individual panels and 49,952 hand-painted wooden dowels. Each dowel functions as a single droplet of paint, placed with precision to build compositions that shift with light and perspective. All red elements were custom color-matched specifically to Chick-fil-A’s brand identity.

Narrative & Visual Language

The narrative begins with a portrait honoring S. Truett Cathy and Jeannette McNeil Cathy and extends outward to reference the brand’s origins and development. These elements include the original restaurant location, a to-scale interpretation of the five-foot red dwarf door, the Chick-fil-A logo, and a wagon symbolizing the company’s early journey. The sequence concludes with two works inspired by Proverbs 22:1, addressing themes of integrity, reputation, and the value of a good name.

The exhibition also introduces the red ribbon works that flank the Next 26 logo. Set against fields of white pegs, these forms establish a new visual element within the collection, adding contrast and movement while expanding the range of imagery and structure across the show.