Chess Variants: Transforming Tradition

Chess Variants: Transforming Tradition looks at the long history of chess from its beginnings to the current rules, as well as the many types of game variants that are becoming increasingly popular. The exhibition shows a colorful and robust timeline featuring the theories on the origin of the game, how it changed as it spread across Asia and Europe, the addition and changes of the pieces, the introduction of the Staunton pieces, and the modern rules and nuances of the current game as well as a brief look at how other countries adopted and adapted the original game. 

The center gallery space will be divided into sections. It will highlight the major variant categories, including starting positions, types of pieces used, mid-game and end-game rules, board shape, number of players, and chance. Each section will show various games under each category, with rules and outlines on playing some of the more popular varieties and their origins.

The exhibition is designed to be highly interactive, with videos of chess players discussing their favorite variants, explaining the rules, and demonstrating board setups. Visitors are encouraged to sit in each area and play actual games, fostering a sense of active participation. The gallery’s flexible layout, with only movable walls in the center, allows for different programming, variant tournaments, or lessons to take place, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all.

The exhibition features a diverse range of contributors including important chess scholars and historians, Rick Knowlton, John McCrary, and Myron Samsin, each bringing their unique perspective and expertise to the table. Artifacts from the permanent collection, a variety of chess sets and boards showcasing the game’s historical changes, and photographs of variant boards with different shapes that allow for more than 2 players all contribute to a rich and varied experience. Additional contributors include Jon Crumiller, Laszlo Polgar, and Yasser Seriawan. A special section will highlight Star Chess created by Lazlo Polgar.

Each variant section has its own “look,” which will be part of the overall branding of the exhibition and give character to each section. The overall goal of the exhibition is to look at the history of the game, teach basic moves to our “newer” chess players, and create a fun and exciting space to play the different variants of the game.