The world's most renowned and respected camera brand, Leica, has announced a new flagship store in Chicago, Illinois, opening on April 30, 2026. Located in Chicago's Gold Coast, one of the city's most culturally rich architectural districts, the new store draws on the city's creative spirit, offering photographers a dynamic space with rotating gallery exhibitions, workshops through the Leica Akademie, connections with fellow photographers, and Leica's latest innovations in technology. The Michigan Ave. flagship store is situated on Chicago's premier commercial corridor, strengthening Leica's presence in the world's cultural capitals.
With its first store in Japan marking the beginning of its retail operations, this opening aligns with Leica's 20th anniversary of retail. Leica's spaces have created an ecosystem designed to showcase precision-engineered tools while fostering a thriving, connected photographic community. The flagship store is the culmination of a 20-year legacy and adds to Leica's network of 120 Leica stores worldwide.
These milestones are further marked by the 50th anniversary of Leica Galleries, a global program that shares a common vision with its retail stores: presenting photography as an art form, a historical record, and a social voice, accessible around the world. With 150 exhibitions annually, they showcase contemporary photography by displaying iconic works from both the present day and the past. This new flagship destination reflects the brand's continued cultural expansion and shows a deep commitment to visual storytelling. "Chicago has one of the most dynamic and layered cultural histories in the world, shaped by artists and storytellers who are not afraid to challenge perspectives," said Karin Rehn-Kaufmann, Art Director and Chief Representative of Leica Galleries International. "Photography is one of the most powerful cultural forces of our time; it influences how we see, how we remember, and how we understand one another. We're excited to become a part of Chicago's vibrant, creative community and contribute to its ongoing cultural conversation."
The 5,000-square-foot space covers two levels and unfolds like a dialogue between Chicago's architectural past and the evolving art of photography. This new location serves as a destination gallery and creative space, as well as an immersive retail environment where Leica customers can purchase and explore Leica's full range of products, including cameras, watches, home cinema, sport optics, and accessories.
Special Edition 17 Camera
Named after "The Atelier" Commemoration: 1917, Leica introduces the Chicago Edition 17, a limited-edition silver Leica M11-P. The camera will sport a boysenberry leatherette, created exclusively for the Chicago store. The special-edition camera commemorates the year the historic Perkins, Fellows & Hamilton studio building was constructed, the architectural landmark that now houses Leica's flagship Chicago store and gallery. Leica will release the Chicago Edition 17 on April 30, available exclusively at Leica Store Chicago for $10,900.
Leica Store and Gallery Chicago Programming
Honoring Chicago's vibrant and artistic spirit, Leica Store Chicago will open with a series of events celebrating the city. Installations by renowned artists Alana Tsui and Dr. Romanelli will debut during the grand opening weekend. The grand opening will also culminate in the inaugural gallery exhibition, Life Unposed, by celebrated Leica photographer Craig Semetko, whose work captures the humor, humanity, and spontaneity of the world around us. Craig will join the opening on April 30, followed by a special artist discussion in conversation with Leica's Chicago gallerist, Lucas Zenk.
Throughout the season, Leica's exhibitions will feature works by local Chicago artists, providing a portrait of the city from their perspective. Leica Akademie will offer hands-on classes and workshops, enabling creators at all skill levels to enhance their craft, try new techniques, and network in person.
Leica Store and Gallery Chicago: 800 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611, USA Tel: +1 312 705 3670 Email: leicastore.chicago@leica-camera.com
Store and Gallery Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibition Dates: April 30 – July 5, 2026
Opening Reception: April 30, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
May 1, 2026: Artist talk and book signing for America Unposed with Craig Semetko Panel with Chicago artists Beers and Cameras Event
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