Sep 16 Monday
The Human Rights Authority is the investigative branch of the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, a state agency that is dedicated to advocating for the rights of citizens with disabilities in Illinois. The Human Rights Authority investigates alleged violations of the rights of persons with disabilities by providers of services. The agency is unique in its use of citizen volunteers to conduct these investigations and make corrective recommendations. As such, Regional Authorities are always seeking to fill vacancies as they occur as well as maintain a pool of potential volunteer members for times when the need arises.
If you feel that you, or someone you know, has had their rights violated by a disability service provider or if you would like to volunteer to participate in the Northwest regional board, located in Champaign, please visit the website at gac.il.gov or call the statewide intake at 1-866-274-8023.
Sep 17 Tuesday
Sep 18 Wednesday
Curb Appeal: The International Hand-Painted Sign Collection of Brad Arsenault
On Display: September 9th – October 18thReception: Friday, October 4th, 6:00-8:00PMCollector Talk: Friday, October 4th, 7:00PM
Brad Arsenault began his career in international development as a Peace Corps volunteer in Gabon in Central Africa more than 30 years ago, where he first encountered the vibrant art form of hand-painted signs. His humanitarian and international development work over the past 25 years across Asia and Africa deepened his appreciation for these unique pieces of visual communication.
Through his collection, Arsenault showcases the artistry and cultural significance of hand-painted signs, celebrating their role in everyday life and their rarity in the age of modern printing technology. Arsenault’s collection of hand-painted signs varies widely in passion and artistry, each work offering a unique take into the vibrant world of commercial art around the globe. While the pieces were created to attract customers to various essential services, these signs are more than just functional—they are cultural artifacts shaped by local resident artists. With the rise of modern printing technology, hand-painted signs began disappearing by the wayside.
The signs convey universal themes: physical well-being, hard work of expertise and local knowledge, and the importance of physical attractiveness as a source of dignity and pride. This collection serves as a tribute to the creativity and functionality of these handcrafted works, capturing the essence of ‘curb appeal’ to draw clients into a particular craftsperson to support a critical need.
Sep 19 Thursday
Sep 20 Friday
Sep 21 Saturday
Sep 22 Sunday
Sep 23 Monday