Case Study: The Art Institute of Chicago achieves discreet, gallery‑friendly surveillance to protect art and visitors with Axis Communications

The Art Institute blends Axis network cameras into gallery décor

The Art Institute of Chicago faced the challenge of upgrading an aging analog surveillance system during a major expansion and in a building (originally built in 1893) that offered limited cabling access and strict aesthetic and low‑light requirements. To protect its collection of more than 260,000 works and support 1.4 million annual visitors while minimizing disruption (the museum is open all but three days a year), The Art Institute of Chicago selected Axis Communications’ network cameras and worked with Honeywell Building Solutions using Honeywell’s Digital Video Manager.

Axis Communications deployed several Axis network camera models (including day/night and megapixel models) integrated with Honeywell’s video management system, using Cat‑6 networking to avoid long runs of coax and small form‑factor units mounted discreetly in galleries and on track lighting. The result was expanded coverage beyond the old analog system, easier redeployment and faster installation, higher‑resolution identification in low light, and the ability to monitor and share incidents from multiple review points — enabling Axis Communications’ solution to strengthen visitor safety and protect the museum’s collection.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Michelle Lehrman Jenness

Associate Vice President