The exhibit features dozens of photographs taken from around Western China, with stunning shots of famous Tibetan landmarks such as the Potala Palace and Namtso Lake.

There are also many photos of present everyday Tibetan life, and some capture region's modernization over the past half century, with both the old traditions and new technology mingling in unique ways.

In one picture, a young Tibetan girl in ethnic dress stands alone in a wide field, but instead of harvesting grain is seen talking on a cell phone.

"The photo exhibit was wonderful...it makes me want to go (to Tibet) someday," Leomar Walker, a college student, told Xinhua when watching the photos.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and Chinese Counsel General Yang Guoqiang were also among those assembled to celebrate the opening of the exhibit.

"Tibet Today: Sights of Western China" exhibit is being held at the James R. Thompson Center, which houses both the Illinois state government offices, a major subway stop, and a popular food court for Chicagoans on their lunch break.

For this reason the Center attracts a wide range of people on their daily commute, who will all be able to see photos of Tibet through April 6 when the exhibition ends.