What are the opening hours?

Monday 8:30am - 5pm Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm Thursday 8:30am - 5pm Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Illinois Arts Council, 115 S. LaSalle Street , Ste. 2202, Chicago, IL (2026)

03/13/2026

Deadline Reminder: The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) General Operating Support (GOS) with Youth Employment in the Arts (YEA) grant application deadline is next Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

General Operating Support (GOS) grants are available for Illinois nonprofit organizations that provide ongoing arts programming. Youth Employment in the Arts (YEA) Grants provide funds to GOS grantees for individuals between the ages of 14-22. Please review the GOS with YEA webpage for eligibility requirements and guidelines, which provide full instructions. A recorded webinar is also available to provide application tips and best practices.

This year all returning and new applicants will complete the same application in IAC’s Salesforce grant portal. If you have additional questions and require one-on-one support, please contact your Regional Program Director before the deadline.

GOS with YEA webpage: www.arts.illinois.gov/granting-opportunities/grants-programs/general-operating-support.html

Recorded webinar: www.illinois.webex.com/recordingservice/sites/illinois/recording/a537aaa30593103dbeff8675491068c9/playback

Contact your regional director: www.arts.illinois.gov/about-iac/staff/grant-staff-locator.html

For questions, please contact our IAC info email: iac.info@illinois.gov

03/13/2026

Reclaiming Cultural Capital: Arts, Museums, and Illinois' Global Future

On March 5th, IAC Board Chair, Nora Daley, took part on a panel at the discussing the power of arts and culture in shaping Chicago’s future, moderated by Illinois State Representative Kim du Buclet - 5th District

Members of this extraordinary panel also included: James Rondeau of the Art Institute of Chicago, Dr. Julian Siggers of the Field Museum, and Grammy Award–winning artist and producer Peter CottonTale.

Photos courtesy of Illinois State Representative Kim du Buclet and City Club Chicago

For more details, follow the link: www.cityclub-chicago.org/event/2/5746/reclaiming-cultural-capital-arts-museums-and-illinois-global-future

03/13/2026

Ken Burns’ The Promise of Liberty is now at the Peoria Riverfront Museum /

Jerome Grand, Program Director of the Illinois Arts Council, recently attended the opening of "The Promise of Liberty" exhibition at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. This groundbreaking exhibit, guest-curated by renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, begin America 250 celebrations in Illinois, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The exhibition is set to runs through January 3, 2027, and is poised to attract visitors across the nation interested in exploring America's foundational ideals and ongoing journey toward liberty and equality.

Ken Burns brings his expertise in storytelling and historical documentaries to this unique role as guest curator. Known for his extensive filmography on American historical subjects, such as the Civil War and the national parks, Burns has a longstanding relationship with the Peoria Riverfront Museum. His involvement began in 2022 with an exhibition of his private quilt collection and has since grown into a significant collaboration to bring "The Promise of Liberty" to life. Burns' new documentary, "The American Revolution," set to release next year, further cements his dedication to educating the public on pivotal American narratives.

The exhibition promises a rich, thought-provoking journey through America's past, featuring rare and significant artifacts. Visitors will find a 1776 edition of the Declaration of Independence, the first printing of the U.S. Constitution, and Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. Other highlights include George Washington's "To Bigotry No Sanction" letter, a life mask of Washington, and Meriwether Lewis's 1814 tomahawk. These exhibits encourage reflection on America's achievements, contradictions, and the ongoing quest for a more inclusive society.

Photos of opening of the exhibit with John D. Morris president & CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum / exterior of the Riverfront Museum.
Photo credit: Jerome Grand

To learn more, follow the link: www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org/exhibits-collections/america-250-celebrating-americas-250th-birthday/the-promise-of-liberty

03/13/2026

Illinois Artist Spotlight: Mercedes Inez Martinez, FY26 Creative Accelerator Fund Recipient

Mercedes Inez Martinez is a distinguished multidisciplinary artist and cultural advocate. Martinez is the driving force behind Son Monarcas and the Mercedes Inez Ensemble, where she showcases her talents as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. Her work harmonizes traditional Mexican music with a rich tapestry of musical influences to create her own vibrant and engaging sound. Martinez's contributions to the arts have garnered support from the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and her collaborations span organizations such as Urban Gateways, Chicago Public Schools, and the Chicago Sinfonietta.

Currently, Mercedes and Son Monarcas are set to release new original music throughout 2026, following the success of their fall 2025 release, Nueva Era. The ensemble is also actively involved in extensive cultural arts programming, predominantly on Chicago’s West Side. Through their educational performance program, “Butterfly Fandango," Son Monarcas brings the joy of music, dance, and storytelling to schools and community organizations, fostering cultural appreciation and inspiring young minds across the Midwest and beyond. Mercedes also collaborates with her sister Stephanie Martinez’s company, Para.Mar Dance Theatre, as Director of Strategic Engagement & Partnerships. Para.Mar is currently gearing up for a world premiere contemporary ballet performance of Mujeres, inspired by Gabriela Mistral’s ‘Locas Mujeres.’ The event is scheduled for April 17-18 and will include a live performance by Son Monarcas.

To learn more about Son Monarcas and their work, follow the link below or follow them on Instagram and
www.sonmonarcas.com

Photo by Kyle Flubacker

03/13/2026

BIG NEWS! The Streator Public Library is excited to announce a brand-new, 12-week creative program: Artist to Be: A Community Canvas! Sponsored by the

We’re looking for 15–20 creative individuals to take part in this collaborative journey, open to artists of all skill levels—from beginners just starting out to experienced creators looking to share their work. Participants will grow their skills, connect with fellow artists, and work toward a highly publicized public art exhibition at the conclusion of the program.

If you’ve been looking for a local opportunity to create, learn, and have your artwork displayed for the community to see, this is your moment. Join us and be part of something creative, supportive, and inspiring!

03/13/2026

The Poetry Foundation launched their spring event season on Thursday evening, March 12th, with a celebration of Chicago Poet Laureate Mayda Del Valle and Illinois Poet Laureate Mark Turcotte that included readings by both poets laureate.

The Chicago Poet Laureate program is a partnership between the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the Chicago Public Library, and the Poetry Foundation. Appointed the second Chicago Poet Laureate in January, Mayda del Valle is serving a two-year term as an ambassador for Chicago’s literary and creative communities.

The Illinois Poet Laureate is made possible by the Office of the Illinois Governor in partnership with the Illinois Arts Council, Illinois Humanities, and the Poetry Foundation. As the sixth Illinois Poet Laureate, Mark Turcotte, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band Anishinaabe, is serving a four-year term to advance the awareness of and appreciation for literary arts and the humanities within Illinois.

Congratulations to both Mayda and Mark - it was a wonderful event and many thanks to the Poetry Foundation!

Photo 1: Mayda Del Valle, Chicago Poet Laureate,
Photo 2: Mark Turcotte, Illinois Poet Laureate
Photo 3. Poetry Foundation event card
Photo 4: Mayda Del Valle and Las Bompleneras, an all-female Bomba and Plena ensemble in traditional Boricua rhythm
Photo 5: Michelle Boone, President of the Poetry Foundation
Photo 6: avery r young and Mayda Del Valle, former and present Chicago Poet Laureates
Photo 7: The poets publications

Poetry Foundation & Poetry Magazine

Illinois Humanities

03/12/2026

Opportunity for Artists or Artist Collectives:
Call for Applications for Fiber-Based and Textile Processes Candidates
F***y Knapp Allen Artist In Residence
University of Rochester: Office of the Provost, Academic Center, School of Arts & Sciences: Art & Art History

Application deadline: April 3, 2026

The Department of Art and Art History at the University of Rochester invites applications for a one or two-year F***y Knapp Allen Artist in Residence position beginning July 1, 2026. They seek artists or artist collectives whose practice centers on fiber-based and textile processes, including both traditional and experimental modes. Candidates should be engaged with the expanded field of fiber art as a conceptual, socially engaged, or technologically integrated practice and demonstrate a strong connection between material production, surface design, and conceptual inquiry in their work and teaching.

The selected artist or collective will be in residence at the University of Rochester to conduct research, develop a body of work, and teach studio art courses associated with their expertise and research interests.

Resident artists have access to the University’s rich resources, including labs and studios; performance and exhibition spaces; archives, libraries, research centers, and special collections. Health benefits, dedicated studio space in the Sage Art Center and added support for research and production augment a single salary of between $70,000 and $130,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience; in the case of an artist collective, this salary is shared among its members.

Applicants may include recent MFA or PhD graduates as well as established artists who demonstrate an ability to collaborate across disciplinary fields.

For more details, follow the link: www.universityofrochester.jobs/virtual-usa/fanny-knapp-allen-artist-in-residence/BB96790E87BE4BB59D448A58A84812C4/job/

www.sas.rochester.edu/aah/

03/12/2026

Opportunity for All:
Forefront /
Collaboration for Impact:
Exploring Strategic Partnerships Across the Nonprofit Spectrum

Often the phrase "sustained collaboration" evokes mergers—but there’s a whole spectrum of collaborative models that can strengthen organizations without requiring full integration. Join us for an introductory session on partnership options such as shared staffing, back office consolidation, collaboratives, and more. Hear from the Sustained Collaboration Network and recent Forefront grantees as they share real examples of partnerships that expanded capacity, reduced administrative burden, and increased impact.

Speakers:
• Emily Fischer - Managing Director, Sustained Collaboration Network
• Tara Mallen - Artistic Director, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble
• Megan Carney - Artistic Director, About Face Theatre
• Christine Thompson - Director, Arizona Together for Impact

Participants will learn:
• The major types of nonprofit strategic partnerships
• How to assess organizational readiness for collaboration
• Practical steps for beginning internal conversations with staff and boards

Follow the link to register or this event OR click the IG link to Forefront's linktree: www.myforefront.org/event/collaboration-for-impact-exploring-strategic-partnerships-across-the-nonprofit-spectrum-virtual/

03/12/2026

Illinois Arts Council’s Director of Programs, Jackie Banks-Mahlum Contributes to Activating Heritage Conference
Chicago Cultural Alliance /

Jackie Banks-Mahlum, Director of Programs at the Illinois Arts Council, participated in the "Grants for Cultural Heritage Institutions" panel during the Chicago Cultural Alliance's 2026 Activating Heritage Conference. Alongside Ellen Placey Wadey (Donnelley Foundation) and BB Cooper Brown (Illinois Humanities) she discussed strategies for obtaining funding for arts and cultural projects and provided guidance on writing effective grant applications. Her session, moderated by John Bateman (Nonprofit Sanity LLC), contributed to the conference's objective of equipping cultural professionals with essential resources for organizational development.

The Conference took place at the University of Illinois Chicago on March 10 featuring twelve panels, a keynote address by Iona Calhoun-Battiste (Chicago Community Trust), and a vendor hall. The annual event is a networking and educational platform for over 50 cultural heritage institutions in Chicago, offering workshops and discussions on topics such as advocacy and fundraising, aimed at supporting the cultural heritage sector.

Photo credit: Martin Matsuyuki Krause, Manager, Special Initiatives, Illinois Humanities /

03/12/2026

Opportunity for Artists:
The Illinois Arts Council has partnered with the Capital Development Board’s Art-in-Architecture Program (CDB/AIA) to promote an opportunity for Illinois artists.
Illinois Capital Development Board /

CDB/AIA is now accepting Requests for Qualifications (RFQ) from Illinois professional artists to create permanent original public art for the Illinois Department of Transportation Coalfield Rest Areas in Waggoner, Illinois (Project # 630-397-005). The Committee is seeking exterior wall art to be installed on the large granite walls adjacent to the entrances at each rest area, four works total. Each available space is roughly 16’ wide by 10’ tall, but artists can utilize the space as they see fit. Artists are not limited to a particular medium or style. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

The Coalfield North and Southbound Rest Areas are located thirty miles south of Springfield, Illinois, on I-55 in the heart of central Illinois' historic coal mining region. The project involves the construction of new rest area facilities and site amenities, including reconfiguration of site circulation, expanded parking, landscape elements, and historic cultural interpretative materials.

The Fine Arts Review Committee will review the portfolios of eligible applicants. At least three artists/teams will be selected as semi-finalists and paid a fee of $1,500 each to develop and present a site-specific design proposal. After the presentations, the Committee will select a winning artist/team for the commission. Correspondence will be sent to the semi-finalists

The project budget is $82,000

Link to the RFQ Document:
https://cdb.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/cdb/professionalgrowth/art/documents/rfq/coalfield-rest-area-rfq.pdf

Application materials must be delivered by email to: CDB.ArtinArchitecture@illinois.gov

03/11/2026

Opportunity for Artists:
Call for Artists
Five Points Washington /
Share Your Work on the Five Points Community Gallery Wall

Five Points Washington is proud to celebrate local creativity through their Community Gallery Wall, located in the main corridor outside the Caterpillar Performing Arts Center. This rotating gallery space highlights the incredible talent of artists from Washington and surrounding communities.

They’re currently accepting submissions for upcoming exhibition slots! If you’re a painter, photographer, sculptor, or mixed media artist, they invite you to share your work with our community.

Exhibit Details:
- Open to artists of all experience levels
- Artwork may include photography, painting, mixed media, or other wall-hangable pieces
- Exhibitions typically run for 6–8 weeks
- No entry fee to apply

For more information, follow the link: www.fivepointswashington.org/community-gallery-wall/

Five Points Washington is located at 360 N. Wilmor Rd., Washington, IL 61571

Questions? Email: NikkiW@fivepointswashington.org or call (309) 444-8222

03/10/2026

HAPPENING TOMORROW!
Opportunity for Organizations:
FY 2027 General Operating Support Grant
Drop-In #5: Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 10:00AM

Drop-ins are an open hour with IAC Program staff to come with any questions you have about the grant program or application and get answers on the call.

General Operating Support (GOS) Grants are offered to eligible not-for-profit organizations that provide arts programming to their defined communities in a manner that supports the mission of the organization. Successful applicants demonstrate ongoing arts programs and a strong commitment to making artistic programs accessible and relevant to a diverse range of participants.

The Youth Employment in the Arts (YEA) Grants provide up to $4,500 to General Operating Support recipients to support youth employment opportunities in their organization throughout the year. Youth employees may be between the ages of 14 and 22. Organizations may request funds for up to 4 youth employees. Duties may be administrative or artistic in nature, or a combination of both.

Guidelines released: January 30, 2026
Opens: February 3, 2026
Deadline: March 18, 2026

Please visit our website and click the link to join the meeting when it is time:
www.arts.illinois.gov/granting-opportunities/grants-programs/general-operating-support.html

Illinois Arts Council

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Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm