Visit the World Chess Hall of Fame for the opening reception of Paws and Pawns: Exploring Animal Chess Sets! Paws and Pawns: Exploring Animal Chess Sets displays a menagerie of animal-themed chess sets from around the world, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the animal kingdom to chess artists. Many of these are from the collection of the World Chess Hall of Fame, while others are on loan from artists, members of Chess Collectors International, and local collectors.
Artists have taken inspiration from the natural world to reinterpret familiar chess pieces for centuries. Some draw on an animal’s reputation to reimagine it as a chess piece—regal lions and powerful Tyrannosaurus rexes, known as the kings of the jungle and dinosaurs, respectively, appear as rulers in some sets. In other cases, artists subvert expectations, elevating meek or delicate creatures like mice or frogs to powerful players when they step—or hop—onto the chess board.
Though the animal kingdom is known for conflict between predator and prey, many of the sets feature humorous perspectives, showcasing pieces inspired by beloved pets or cartoon-like versions of beasts of the wild. Other sets serve as splendid reminders of the spectacular diversity of wildlife in a specific location like the ocean or a jungle. RSVPs are recommended to events@worldchesshof.org
Thursday, January 30, from 5 to 8 p.m., with complimentary admission, valet, and refreshments.
For more information, visit worldchesshof.org
See the Zoo's California sea lions perform acrobatic and athletic feats, including Olympic-style dives on a high-diving platform, flipper walks, frisbee tosses and plenty of surprises. While on stage with the sea lions, the Zoo's trainers explain sea lion behavior and positive-reinforcement training, in addition to the need for conserving the sea lion's ocean habitat.
The Saint Louis Science Center has expanded its Preschool Science Series to include new offerings for different age groups of young scientists. Storybook STEM is for ages 3 to 5.
Explore songs, finger plays, music and more during this Music & Movement class for ages 0-6. Some sessions are held in person at various branches of the St. Louis County Library. Some sessions are virtual.
Free outdoor concerts are back at the Missouri History Museum. The Spring series of concerts features favorite bands, food trucks, and exhibits inside the museum that are open to the public until 8 p.m. on concert nights. Concerts are held from 6-8 p.m.
Explore the Saint Louis Zoo in the evenings at the Chinese lantern festival Animals Aglow! Animals Aglow returns to illuminate the Saint Louis Zoo for the second year with dozens of new, towering lanterns and light displays.
