Current Exhibition: "Intersecting Identities"
October 1- February 28
“Intersecting Identities” brings together the engaging works of Hannah Offutt and Feral, two artists who explore personal themes of identity and emotion in a way that is both relatable and impactful. Offutt’s art reflects on queer identity and self-discovery, offering a thoughtful, intimate perspective. Meanwhile, Feral’s pieces capture the complexities of anxiety as an emotion familiar to all, bringing it to life in a way that resonates with viewers. Both artists create a welcoming space where everyone can find a bit of themselves in the artwork, encouraging connection and reflection.
Hannah Offutt
“My name is Hannah Offutt. I was born and raised in Peoria, IL. I’ve created art since I was a child. I come from a very musical and singing family. Initially, I was a singer songwriter and guitarist and performed around Peoria for 5 years or so. Performing was therapeutic for me, and it helped me to make friends and acquaintances. My passion for writing songs and playing guitar slowly deteriorated as limited time and resources gave way to creativity blocks.
I’ve always had an interest in learning how to paint so I completed a few drawing classes through Lane Community College in 2014. From there, I took some private painting classes and learned some basics. It was enough for me to realize and have confidence in what I could create. I had my first Art Show at the late and great Main Street bar, Blue.
I am a founding member of The Peoria Guild of Black Artists (PGOBA). PGOBA was born out of the spirit of Black Lives Matter in 2020 and the seclusion of the COVID-19 Pandemic. I was in a group art show with PGOBA at the University Galleries in 2021. In collaboration with AMEREN and PGOBA, I co-painted murals and co-designed a mural in Peoria, IL. I also co-painted a mural with Phoenix House in Peoria, IL. I have facilitated Sip and Paint Nights for Peoria Public Library Lincoln Branch. I am also very proud to have a painting on permanent display at McClure Branch Library.
To summarize my current body of work for this show, I believe it is okay to accept the chaos of creation and create from where one is and where one is at. My work is about my identity, the balance of my colorful, free form, abstract, creative mind, experimentation that forces curiosity, the joy of repetitive pattern making, and the feeling of wild euphoria that bright colors bring me.
I hope you enjoy my work and want a piece of the rainbow for yourself.”
Feral
Feral is an artist born and raised in Peoria, IL and is a founding member of the Peoria Guild of Black Artists (PGOBA), as well as a graduate of the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts in Normal, IL. The artist’s work is inspired by nature and folklore, with a touch of psychedelia.
“A majority of the art I have made in my late twenties revolves around chronic pain and anxiety, conditions that myself and thousands of people experience. The veiny motif in my artwork represents the feeling of nerves being exposed when one is experiencing anxiety, stress or inflammation. My art displays the personification of these conditions in a way that evokes a visceral reaction — not quite one of negativity but rather, one of recognition.”
All artwork pictured is for sale: