An eclectic array of original works by dozens of local artists is highlighted in a month-long event called the La Grange Arts Stroll, beginning September 8, that celebrates art and engages the community during times of social distancing, according to the La Grange Business Association.
La Grange Art Stroll features Painting, Live Music, and an Auction
Throughout the month, visitors can walk past a pop-up art studio to watch an artist at work in the window, get their portrait sketched, take an art class, bid on art in an online auction, enjoy live music outdoors, watch a chef at work, or admire original art displayed in store windows.
A walking map guides visitors to art in several mediums shown at businesses, galleries, shops and restaurants throughout the village. Artwork includes sweeping, colorful outdoor murals, commissioned works of ethnic art, wall sculptures, wood carvings, photography, paintings, ceramics and more from local and nationally known artists. Some artwork is available to purchase.
The Arts Stroll is sponsored by Baird & Warner La Grange and held with the cooperation of the Village of La Grange and the La Grange Art League.
“Art connects us when we can’t by physically together and reminds us of the bonds that make us a community,” said Scott Persin, manager of the La Grange office of Baird & Warner. “We wanted to be part of an initiative that brings the creative process up close and showcases the excellent artists that we have locally.”
Live Art at the La Grange Art Stroll
Live art events are planned for each weekend in September. You’ll find a collection of art demonstrations, window displays and live music. There’s something for everyone in these unique events coming to La Grange this month.
Pop-Up Art Studio
Watch a local artist paint on canvas from inside a storefront window, Saturdays from 1:00pm – 4:00pm at 26 S. La Grange Rd. Featuring Heidi Buckner, September 12; Jawuane Johnson, September 19; and Julie Skida/Kelly Clark, September 26.
Portraits on the Patio
The La Grange Art League will be creating outdoor portraits in charcoal and graphite. 10:30am – 4:00pm on September 26 at the La Grange Art League located at 122 W. Calendar Ave.
Community Chalk Project
The Community Chalk Project will be hosted outdoors on Saturday beginning September 12 near Boyce Chiropractic located at 114 W. Calendar Ave.
Art Classes
- The Art of Flower Arranging, led by floral shop Bloom3
- In-studio or virtual painting sessions led by art studio Bottle & Bottega
- Youth Dot Rock Painting Class led by the La Grange Art League
- Unleash your inner Picasso and design your own pottery led by art studio Ceramic Art Café
The Art of Food
Baird & Warner La Grange organizes a unique virtual event featuring culinary demonstrations from some of the top chefs and restaurant owners in La Grange. For details, follow Baird & Warner La Grange on Instagram or Facebook
Art in the Windows
A walking map guides visitors to original works from local artists displayed in 12 designated store windows. Artwork in each window is available for sale.
Art Auction
Own a colorful piece of La Grange history and bid on any of the nearly 30 hand-painted wheeled party carts displayed in front of local businesses this summer as part of a public art exhibit called “La Grange Rolls With It.” Online bidding closes at 7:00 pm on September 12.
Visit the online auction to bid on a cart now.
Live Music
Several Local venues will be featuring live music performances during the month of September.
Rooftop Music at Palmer Place
Musicians will perform on the rooftop and patio at Palmer Place every Sunday from 1:30pm – 4:30pm and Wednesday from 6:30pm – 10pm.
Music at Antonino’s Ristorante
Antoninio’s Ristorante will feature live music under a spacious tent every Sunday through September.
Music at The Elm Restaurant
Summer takes on a whole new vibe with Fiddlesticks on the rooftop at The Elm on Saturday, September 19 at 8:00pm.
“There is so much incredible art available within La Grange,” said Nancy Cummings, the executive director of the La Grange Business Association. “This is a great opportunity for people to explore it on their own in a fun and engaging way. It’s a complicated world we live in, and art brings us all together.”