Illinois Art Station hosts free monthly open house

Image courtesy of the Illinois Art Station

NORMAL, Ill. – The Bloomington-Normal Illinois Art Station hosts free open house events every fourth Saturday of the month, offering community members a chance to explore art in a welcoming, low-pressure environment.

The Art Station provides fine arts programming for children and families who may not have access to arts education in schools due to budget cuts or other limitations.

“We are able to offer an extension of that learning beyond the schools,” said Nicole Learned, manager of the Illinois Art Station.

The Art Station typically draws between 75 and 100 attendees at each fourth Saturday event. The open house runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and allows participants to work at their own pace. Attendees may complete one project or multiple projects, and they are also welcome to bring in projects started elsewhere.

“It’s a great way for people to come in and create in a laid-back environment,” Learned said.

The station offers a wide range of activities, including painting, printmaking and stamping, designed to accommodate all ages and skill levels. Many of the activities are self-guided, giving participants the freedom to experiment and personalize their work.

“It’s all about enjoying the process and experiencing different mediums and techniques, and less about the outcome,” Learned said.

Learned said the goal of the free events is to introduce people to the Art Station and its programs while removing financial barriers.

“As art classes and services become more expensive, this is one thing we can guarantee is free,” Learned said. “People can come in, make something, ask questions and enjoy the grounds without paying anything.”

The Art Station also relies on grants and community donations, which help support its programs and expand access to arts education for local residents.