US Chessathon - Museum of Natural History - CLICK FOR PORTFOLIO.

The concept of the US CHESSathon was created in collaboration with Executive Director Al Lawrence, under whose leadership the event evolved into a landmark national chess experience. Each year, the US CHESSathon was staged in a new, high-profile location across New York City, featuring massive chess simuls that brought grandmasters, world champions, celebrities, and children of all ages together for a full day dedicated to learning and improving their chess skills.

Sponsored by partners including Excalibur Electronics and others, the premiere CHESSathon launched in Central Park with the cast of Searching for Bobby Fischer, setting the tone for the event’s cultural impact. As the US CHESSathon grew, it expanded to iconic venues such as Metro-North Grand Central Terminal, the USS Intrepid, and the American Museum of Natural History. Jami Anson worked closely with the production team to design the event’s visual identity—including signage, T-shirts, and promotional materials—and also served as one of the primary photographers, documenting these historic chess celebrations.

© Creative Production, Event Planning, Development Director of Event, and Photography by Jami L. Anson