Curator:
Marcella Hackbardt, Professor of Art, Kenyon College, Gambier, OH

September 4, 2025:
Curator’s Lecture, 5-6pm, Horowitz Auditorium
Reception, 6-8pm

The phrase make-believe embraces the power of fantasy to ultimately impact reality in ways that are uniquely creative, positive, and productive. In this exhibition, nine artists synthesize a make-believe imagination with provocative mental role play, metamorphosis and hybridity, and idea-driven narratives and imagery. The artists in Make|Believe expand our openness to play, sense of discovery, and growth potential.

The Foster Gallery is pleased to present “Things You Can Use” by Randall Carlson.
Over the decades, my forms have developed through an awareness of the scope of pottery making historically, culturally, and contemporarily. The stunning diversity of forms, the purpose of forms, and the methods of making are endless, and it all leaves some residue in my work. It is not my aim to try to make work that is directly reflective of a specific historical period or idiom. Rather, I try to make work that is my own, informed by echoes of historical forms and surfaces that have made an imprint on me that help point the way for me to continually evolve my own voice..

Reception: Friday, September 5, 5-8 PM

Live Music

SHOW DATES: September 1 – September 25

Gallery Hours:
Sundays 8:30 AM-NOON
Monday through Friday – 9 AM – 1 PM
Other showings by appointment.

For additional information, call (309) 673-3641 or email [email protected].

The Foster Gallery is pleased to present “The Limited Editions of an Unlimited Mind” by Mary Lou “Pixie” Jacquin.
In keeping with my commitment to making my art accessible to both new and seasoned collectors, this exhibition features a body of work composed entirely of limited-edition pieces. Select originals are available upon request.

Reception: Friday, September 5, 5-8 PM

Live Music

SHOW DATES: September 1 – September 25

Gallery Hours:
Sundays 8:30 AM-NOON
Monday through Friday – 9 AM – 1 PM
Other showings by appointment.

For additional information, call (309) 673-3641 or email [email protected].

Project Space: “Hardcore Bubblegum” by Trevor Basham

Noble Stabbings is the resin-filled brainchild of Bloomington, IL based artist and graphic designer Tee Trashem. He has done graphic design for tons of your favorite local businesses like; Mother Murphy’s, White Oak Brewing, Waiting Room Records and Coffee Hound just to name a few. Art that’s all about finding the happiness in the bummers of life and smiling in the face of defeat! The work is highly inspired by the punk scene and skateboard culture from the 80’s & 90’s. There are imaginative explosions of action with a pop of cartoon aesthetics. The designs feature bold, clean line-work with a pop-art pastel color palette. The artwork is primarily done in acrylic paint, watercolors and spray paint.
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Main Gallery: “Luminosity” by Mandy Roeing, Catherine Flynn, & Tracey Maras

When seen under a microscope, a painting done in the medium of soft pastel looks like it is comprised of layers of tiny, brilliantly colored diamonds. This faceted shape allows the particles of pigment to refract light in many directions, resulting in an almost glowing effect. Compositionally, soft pastels are practically pure pigment which provides exceptional color power.
While we each have our own unique painting style and way of working with pastel, we share a desire to express our emotional connection to the natural world through pastel’s beauty and purity of color. We hope this exhibition sharing our three different takes on painting the outdoors will not only resonate with viewers on an emotional level but demonstrate the versatility and brilliance of soft pastels.

Live at the Library: The John Price Trio
Music Concert (70’s & 80’s Easy Listening)
Wednesday, September 17th, 7pm-9pmBrimfield Public Library
Free Concert for All Ages
No Registration Required
Non-Alcoholic Beverages Welcome
________________________________________________________________
With over 150 years of combined experience, these musical veterans cover a large variety of genres, artists, and styles.
John Price, a long-time Brimfield resident, is an accomplished musician and songwriter. He and Rich Mitts have a musical history that goes back to 1976 – Boulder, Colorado. John and Tom Abbot performed in The Fords and The John Price Trio. John provides the lead vocal, as well as 12-string and 6-string guitars.
Tom Abbot is a multi-instrumentalist who has performed with numerous bands over the years. Tom is an accomplished guitarist, mandolin, bass, and harmonica player. Tom is currently performing with The Flying D’Rito Brothers, a well-known local band.
Locally, Rich played over 30 years with a well-known bluegrass group in Peoria, called Applegate & Company. Rich is currently a member of the Harlan, Meister, & Mitts band, performing around the Peoria area.
Their combined musical and vocal prowess will ensure that “A splendid time is guaranteed for all!”

The Village of Bartonville is excited to announce its 1st annual Garage Sale Days, taking place Thurs, September 18 through Sat, September 20, 2025. The Village of Bartonville welcomes everyone to come out, shop, and discover the charm of our community during this year’s 3 day event! Check out bartonville.org for more information!

This Second Empire-style house was built in 1868 for hardware merchant Moses Pettengill and completely renovated in 1945. It now showcases a fine collection of objects owned by its last owner, Jean Morron—including mid-18th century furnishings, artwork, artifacts and textiles—as well as earlier items belonging to the Pettengill family.

Cost: $10

Monthly themed stories with our friends from the Dunlap Public Library District. Oriented towards preschoolers and early elementary ages. The theme changes every month and always relates to exhibitions or events at the museum (cars, planes, tractors, farming equipment, LEGO®, etc.) Meet at the gazebo then we’ll walk together to a special destination for the stories. We hope you’ll then stay to visit the rest of the museum. There is no charge for the story time, regular admission rates apply for a visit after the story time. You can bring your own picnic and have lunch at the picnic tables on the Generation Building’s veranda.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry
Thursday, September 18, 2025 ~ 8:00 – 10:00 pm
When checking in at the door, be prepared to share your table and seat number.
Tickets in Advance Online: $5-members, $8-nonmembers, $3-poets fees (till 6pm day of event)
If an event is not sold out, tickets will also be sold at the door.
Tickets at the door*: $9-members, $12-nonmembers, $5-poets
(*No money will be taken at the door unless we don’t reach our max capacity)
*Please Note that purchasing a Poet Ticket is a commitment to share your poetry on stage.
If you don’t plan to read, then don’t purchase a poet level ticket.
Water and Pop for $1.00 is offered at the bar.
Attendees may bring their own food and drink or bring in food and drink from the Rhythm Kitchen.
Experience a diverse open mic with artists from all backgrounds in a positive and inspiring atmosphere.
Peoria’s Open Mic for Poetry is held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month.
Hosts: Ryan Lowry and Whitney Jensen with DJ YV
Featured Poet: HuSTLe City Poetry
HuSTLe City Poetry Slam team was formed in March 2022 by a few young poets who were hungry for the opportunity to share their passion on different stages outside the streets of Saint Louis, Missouri to open hearts across the nation. Started by Aaron Bell and Shakeita Anderson, this year’s team consists of 6 amazing poets all from Saint Louis: Shy The Poet, Kmoney the Poet, Meta4, Truth, Mister and Just Aaron. HuSTLe City Poetry Slam team is ranked 10th in the nation and continues to stride towards greatness

Join us for a nature themed educational program for children ages 7 to 12 years old to experience and appreciate wildlife.

In Invasive Species Spotlight, learn some of the common invasive species within the Park and how to identify them, how to control these invasive species at you own homes, and some native options to replace them.

Meeting Location: Forest Hall
FREE for Member Child; $5 for Non-Member Child
Adult Chaperone required & FREE for the class
WPP Members receive FREE park admission. Regular park admission fee still applies for Non-Members. During Wild Nights, park admission is $7/person.
Reservations Required. Purchase Tickets Online

Join us for an adventure of a nighttime and experience the Park at night! Look and learn about local wildlife, meditate or hear ghost stories – every hike you will learn something different! For many hikes you will get to use red light flashlights while searching for wildlife to protect nocturnal species from light pollution and cause less disruption of their natural behaviors.

Go on a Astronomical Tour with the Peoria Astronomical Society.

Meeting Location: TBD
FREE for members, and FREE for non-members with paid admission. Park admission during Wild Nights is $7/person.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration required. Sign Up

Salsa At CAC
Friday, September 19th, 2025
ADMISSION
$8.00 nonmembers
$5.00 CAC Members
Introductory Dance Lesson – 8:30-9:30 pm
Learn the basics of several Latin Dances by Guest Instructors.
Open dancing – 9:30-midnight
Enjoy Latin Dancing August 15th and every third Friday at Contemporary Art Center’s All White Attire Night Salsa at CAC, A Latin Dance Event 8:30 pm-Midnight. If you have never danced before, no problem because we will teach you how in a complimentary Beginners Dance Lesson at 8:30 with Eduardo and Beverly Caballero. No partner is required.
Stay for the dance that begins at 9:30 and ends at midnight. DJ Eduardo Caballero spins mostly Salsa music but also Cha Cha, Bachata, Merengue, Tango, Reggaeton, R&B, Cumbia and Latin style pop hits. $8.00 admission at the door only.
Bring your own food and drink or order take out from the Rhythm Kitchen. Pop, water and ice for sale on the floor for $1.00
Questions:
William Butler
CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER
305 SW Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602 • 309-674-6822 • [email protected] • www.peoriacac.org

COMBINED ART RECEPTION
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 6:30- 8:30 pm
free admission / donation requested; complimentary snacks & drinks, music by Harry Tonchev Trio. Each of the exhibiting artists will be in attendance. Monica J. Brown will talk about her exhibited work. Meet the exhibiting artists and view their artwork in three galleries and the 3rd floor classroom.
FEATURING TWO ART EXHIBITIONS:
LIMINALITY: THE SACRED SPACE
August 29-October 17, 2025 Preston Jackson Gallery, 2nd Floor
Monica J. Brown’s paintings weave pop art, Afro-surrealism and abstraction, exploring themes of ancestry, memory and personal biomythography. Natalie Jackson’s digital assemblages layer imagery, texture and emotions to create an ambiguous, visual narrative. Together, these artists lead us through a rite of passage in restructuring our identity.
BETWEEN A SWORD AND A WALL
August 29-October 17, 2025 Gallery 3R, 3rd Floor
Documenting the migrant crisis as he traveled with caravans through Mexico to Tijuana led photographer Cory Zimmerman to the highlands of Guatemala to capture the unimaginable poverty, discrimination and genocide driving the Maya people’s mass displacement. Originally from Peoria, Zimmerman resides in Mexico City.
Art exhibits may also be viewed for no admission during business hours (Tuesday-Saturday 11-5:00) and prior to the start of and during some evening events.
The Contemporary Art Center is located at 305 SW Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602. Call or text 309-674-6822 or contact us with questions for more information.

Head to Five Points Washington on September 20 for a World Class Johnny Cash Tribute performance.

The Church of Cash show, performed by singer Jay Ernest and his band, is an unforgettable experience that brings the music of the Man in Black to life. Jay Ernest’s deep, resonant voice sounds remarkably like Johnny Cash’s, and he captures the essence of the legendary performer with his dynamic stage presence.

In addition to the music, the show includes captivating stories and anecdotes about Cash’s life and career; adding an extra dimension of entertainment and education for audiences of all ages. The performance is designed to appeal to both long-time Cash fans and newcomers to his music. This is the perfect night out for families, couples and friends!

Doors Open at 6 p.m.
Show Begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets:
Balcony Seating: $35
Floor Seating: $40

Groups of 7 or more will receive a 10% discount off each ticket in their order! Contact the Theater Manager for group rate information.

Purchase tickets HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/church-of-cash-tickets-1291775438109?aff=oddtdtcreator

Questions? Contact Theater Manager, Josh Schnetzler: [email protected] or (309)444-8299.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this American Federalist-style house was built in 1837 and is the oldest standing house in Peoria. Built on Peoria’s east bluff, the property offers a spectacular view of the Illinois River Valley. Collections include period furniture, china, tools, quilts and clothing.

This Second Empire-style house was built in 1868 for hardware merchant Moses Pettengill and completely renovated in 1945. It now showcases a fine collection of objects owned by its last owner, Jean Morron—including mid-18th century furnishings, artwork, artifacts and textiles—as well as earlier items belonging to the Pettengill family.

Cost: $10

Shaken, stirred, and wildly entertaining—join us for Critters & Cocktails. Under the guidance of an expert mixologist, you’ll craft unique cocktails inspired by the park’s most intriguing creatures. As you sip your creations, our animal caretakers will introduce you to some of Wildlife Prairie Park’s most captivating residents, sharing their stories, habitats, and fun facts that will leave you both amazed and delighted.

Live at the Five Spot: Dexter O’Neal & the Funkyard
Friday, September 26, 2025~ 6:30-8:30pm
Tickets in Advance Online: $8-members, $12-nonmembers fees (until 5pm day of event).
Tickets at the door*: $12-Members, $16-nonmembers
(Tickets for walk-ins will be available until max capacity is reached)
Water and pop for $1.00 is offered at the bar. Attendees may bring their own food and drink or bring in food and drink from the Rhythm Kitchen.
About the Band:
About the Band: Dexter O’Neal and Funk Yard is a multi-faceted Peoria-based cover band performing a variety of R&B hits that appeal to all ages. Dex and the gang have the ability to change musical forms right in front of your eyes. You can’t beat the steady driving rhythms, heavy bass lines, crazy guitar leads, sultry sax melodies, and the powerful vocals of Dexter O’Neal. Visit dexteroneal.com for more details.

Step into a world of vivid imagination and emotional depth with An Evening of Stravinsky, a captivating double-bill ballet production that brings to life two of Igor Stravinsky’s most iconic scores: The Firebird and Petrushka. These masterpieces, born from the early 20th-century collaboration between Stravinsky and the Ballets Russes, continue to mesmerize audiences with their explosive rhythms, rich orchestration, and timeless storytelling.
​
The Firebird: A prince enters an enchanted realm and captures the magical Firebird, who helps him defeat the evil sorcerer Kashchei and free a kingdom from his dark spell. A tale of magic, courage, and triumph.

Petrushka: At a lively Russian fair, three puppets – Petrushka, the Ballerina, and the Soldier – are brought to life. After being locked away by the Charlatan, Petrushka discovers a haunting mystery and insists on being set free.
​
Together, The Firebird and Petrushka offer a dazzling journey through Slavic folklore and the human condition – one fueled by the primal pulse and poetic vision of Stravinsky’s groundbreaking music.

Date: September 26, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Location: Mackinaw Valley Vineyard
Get FIRED UP and wear something Red and Bright for our FINAL SALSA PARTY of the season!

Come out for our Salsa dance lessons and party! Learn and love Salsa Dancing with D.J. Eduardo and his talented wife Beverly. The Caballero’s took up Latin dance after moving to Peoria from New York City. They love to share their enthusiasm and talent with others and have been working their Salsa dance magic in Peoria for over a decade.

The first hour is instruction with Bev and Eduardo, and then guests are invited to stay for a social dance party with DJ Eduardo sharing his Latin dance music collection. Basic Lessons include Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha-Cha dance styles.
Eduardo’s favorite Music Genres to share are; Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, Cha-Cha, R&B, Shuffle and A Taste of Tango.

Salsa Schedule:

6:30-7:30pm arrival suggested, check-in at TASTING ROOM, DECK BAR and PAVILION AREAS. Wine tasting until 7pm that evening at the tasting room bar area. Deck Bar near pavilion open until 11pm for drink service.

7:30-8:30pm Salsa Dance lessons with Beverly and Eduardo

8:30-11:00 pm Salsa Dance Social open dancing with DJ Eduardo

$10 per person admission, this event is best for adults and older teens.

Admission includes; group dance lessons, DJ open dance social, wine tasting for guests 21 and over until 7pm at the Deck Bar area only on this night. Small snacks available for purchase and you may also bring snacks with you. All beverages must be purchased at the vineyard, we sell wine, beer, sodas, tea and water.

You may reserve your spot in advance by calling 309-359-9463 or pay that evening when entering. Comfortable footwear recommended, ladies that prefer to wear high heels for dancing please be sure heel tips are in good condition.

Join us as we welcome new artists to feature their work in the beautiful MUSE Gallery!
March 28 and April 25: Kelly Scarfe
Lisa Nelson Raabe: May 23 and June 27
Duffy Armstrong: July 25 and August 22
Chris Kukla: Sept 26 and Oct 24
Heather Ford: November 21

A fun belly dance seminar and show on September 27, 2025, in Peoria, Illinois!
Visit the Facebook page for updates and registration information on the event!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1332106637901762

A gathering for book nerds, book dragons, and creatives. Buy books, meet the authors and submerse yourself in all things literary. One hundred authors and vendors will be present at the first annual Readers and Writers Rendezvous.

From May to October, every second and fourth Saturday of the month, you can visit our own resident blacksmith at work in the Farm Building, from noon to 4pm! Included with admission

Step into a world of vivid imagination and emotional depth with An Evening of Stravinsky, a captivating double-bill ballet production that brings to life two of Igor Stravinsky’s most iconic scores: The Firebird and Petrushka. These masterpieces, born from the early 20th-century collaboration between Stravinsky and the Ballets Russes, continue to mesmerize audiences with their explosive rhythms, rich orchestration, and timeless storytelling.
​
The Firebird: A prince enters an enchanted realm and captures the magical Firebird, who helps him defeat the evil sorcerer Kashchei and free a kingdom from his dark spell. A tale of magic, courage, and triumph.

Petrushka: At a lively Russian fair, three puppets – Petrushka, the Ballerina, and the Soldier – are brought to life. After being locked away by the Charlatan, Petrushka discovers a haunting mystery and insists on being set free.
​
Together, The Firebird and Petrushka offer a dazzling journey through Slavic folklore and the human condition – one fueled by the primal pulse and poetic vision of Stravinsky’s groundbreaking music.

It’s our 63rd anniversary for bringing original art to central Illinois and we want you to be a part of the celebration! As one of the oldest art organizations in the country, the Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair is nationally recognized. We offer affordable hotel rates, convenient parking, and 500 volunteers. This is the Peoria Art Guild’s major fundraising event of the year. All proceeds benefit the Art Guild’s community outreach and programming. Thank You to all of our Sponsors for all they do to support this event!

Step into a world of vivid imagination and emotional depth with An Evening of Stravinsky, a captivating double-bill ballet production that brings to life two of Igor Stravinsky’s most iconic scores: The Firebird and Petrushka. These masterpieces, born from the early 20th-century collaboration between Stravinsky and the Ballets Russes, continue to mesmerize audiences with their explosive rhythms, rich orchestration, and timeless storytelling.
​
The Firebird: A prince enters an enchanted realm and captures the magical Firebird, who helps him defeat the evil sorcerer Kashchei and free a kingdom from his dark spell. A tale of magic, courage, and triumph.

Petrushka: At a lively Russian fair, three puppets – Petrushka, the Ballerina, and the Soldier – are brought to life. After being locked away by the Charlatan, Petrushka discovers a haunting mystery and insists on being set free.
​
Together, The Firebird and Petrushka offer a dazzling journey through Slavic folklore and the human condition – one fueled by the primal pulse and poetic vision of Stravinsky’s groundbreaking music.

Step into a world of vivid imagination and emotional depth with An Evening of Stravinsky, a captivating double-bill ballet production that brings to life two of Igor Stravinsky’s most iconic scores: The Firebird and Petrushka. These masterpieces, born from the early 20th-century collaboration between Stravinsky and the Ballets Russes, continue to mesmerize audiences with their explosive rhythms, rich orchestration, and timeless storytelling.
​
The Firebird: A prince enters an enchanted realm and captures the magical Firebird, who helps him defeat the evil sorcerer Kashchei and free a kingdom from his dark spell. A tale of magic, courage, and triumph.

Petrushka: At a lively Russian fair, three puppets – Petrushka, the Ballerina, and the Soldier – are brought to life. After being locked away by the Charlatan, Petrushka discovers a haunting mystery and insists on being set free.
​
Together, The Firebird and Petrushka offer a dazzling journey through Slavic folklore and the human condition – one fueled by the primal pulse and poetic vision of Stravinsky’s groundbreaking music.