My experience with photojournalist Steve McCurry did not end with my recent Talking Travel interview. Earlier this week I went to Loyola University Museum of Art in Chicago for Steve McCurry ICONS.

Originally debuted in Madrid, the exhibition is in the United States for the first time thanks to the partnership of LUMA and FeverUp. Tucked away a block off of busy Magnificent Mile, LUMA is a beautiful red brick Gothic building. ICONS takes over the entire gallery space, with one to three pictures on each dark navy wall.

Of course, McCurry’s iconic “Afghan Girl” is one of the first photos one sees upon entering the gallery. Next to it, though, is “Village Boy.” Not nearly as well-known, “Village Boy” struck me as equally poignant, leading me to wonder what launches a photograph to historical significance.

Another wall featured photos from 9/11. McCurry happened to be in New York at the time of the horrific event. That coincidental timing allowed McCurry to capture amazing photos.

Each photo is accompanied by a QR code, allowing attendees to read or hear information. Also, a short video of McCurry discussing his career plays in one of the small rooms. The video also turns the lens on McCurry, showing him throughout his career all over the world.

As we discussed in our interview, McCurry focuses more on people than places. His love of humanity, cultures, traditions and conditions led him across the globe. In capturing these images in this way, McCurry reveals more about the locations than mere scenery ever would.

While some of the images are sad, tragic even, I was left with a positive feeling. McCurry somehow made me feel worlds away yet close to the subjects.

Like all great art exhibits, ICONS works on multiple levels. Attendees can view all for the history, the beauty or the humanity. Having interviewed McCurry made it that much more enjoyable for me.

ICONS is on display at LUMA through March 31. No future locations have been announced, but more are expected.

— John Wroblewski, online writer