Almost two dozen original paintings of flowers and trees by members of the Plein Air Painters of Rockford. This exhibit is in cooperation with Klehm Arboretums event - Garden Fair.

The Absolutely Abstract Art Exhibition returns to The Next Picture Show June 3–July 11, 2026, celebrating the bold, expressive, and imaginative world of abstract art. A longtime favorite on the TNPS calendar, this annual exhibition transforms the gallery into an exploration of creativity with no boundaries.

This dynamic show features artwork built around the essential elements of art — form, color, line, tone, and texture — rather than recognizable subject matter. From paintings and detailed drawings to inventive sculpture, mixed media, fiber arts, hand-pulled prints, and photography, the exhibition highlights both 2D and 3D works that challenge perception and spark conversation.

Abstract art invites viewers to slow down and respond with instinct and emotion. Without a defined narrative, each piece becomes a personal experience—open to interpretation and rich with possibility. Some visitors are drawn to bold movement and rhythm, while others are drawn to subtle layering and unexpected color relationships. There’s no single way to experience abstract work—only curiosity and imagination.

The gallery is open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., or by appointment.

Hosted by Judge Douglas Ginsburg, this documentary explores the spirit and worldwide influence of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Ginsburg guides viewers through the major turning points in U.S. and world history where the Declaration served as a blueprint for self-government, from the abolitionist movement and Women's Suffrage to the words that moved iconic figures like Frederick Douglass and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to action.

Its reach extends far beyond American shores. Since 1776, more than 100 countries have drafted their own declarations of independence, and Ginsburg brings these moments to life through short, character-driven stories spanning major waves of independence in France, Latin America, and the Czech Republic. We'll also hear from refugees fleeing Hong Kong, Venezuela, and Vietnam, each pursuing the promise of "Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness." And throughout it all, everyday people share their unfiltered thoughts on America's progress toward a nation where "all men are created equal."

The program is free and open to the public. It is approximately 56 minutes, not rated, and made possible through PBS.

Drop in to learn how you can contribute to science and document wildlife in our prairie! Open to all ages, participants may monitor our monarch population, check the snake boards, learn to identify plants, and get inspired by the majestic midwest prairie ecosystem.

RSVP online to receive a reminder email and updates on what’s blooming in our prairie.

What does it mean to be American? Join us for a hybrid community book club that brings readers together to explore that very question through the lens of the American Revolution. We'll kick off with a preview screening from Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt's PBS documentary The American Revolution, followed by an informal group discussion.

This month, we're reading Revolutionary Summer: The Birth of American Independence by Joseph Ellis. The summer of 1776 was unlike any other — the thirteen colonies boldly declared independence from Britain while facing the largest naval force ever to cross the Atlantic. Ellis brings this electrifying moment to life, following Washington, Adams, Jefferson, Franklin, and the Howe brothers as the Continental Congress and Army made history-defining decisions on the fly. It's a story of courage, chaos, and the unlikely birth of a nation — and we'd love to discuss it with you.

This free public program runs approximately 45 minutes and is available both in-person at the Granville Branch and virtually via Zoom. To register for Zoom, visit: t.ly/D9uwH. Copies of the book are available at the Granville Branch.

Nurture is a mixed media art exhibit that focuses on artists' perspective of the concept of Nurture. Join us to experience the inspiration and expressive interpretation of Nurture though art.