Feb 02 Monday
Chicago-based artist Michael x. Ryan gathers the quiet imprints we leave behind — from sidewalk stains and river paths to shower puddles and fallen tree limbs — and gives them form, weight, and voice. Through drawing, mapping, wood relief, and 3D printed objects, Ryan captures traces of human presence — the edge of a river, the imprint of a wet body, the marks on a street — and renders them as physical forms that evoke movement, memory, and place.
This exhibition brings together key installations spanning over four decades, from early works shaped by the Ox-Bow landscape to large-scale reliefs inspired by the streets of Chicago to one tree of interest on the family property in Woodstock, Illinois. By drawing attention to overlooked details, Ryan invites us to consider how our everyday movements shape the spaces we inhabit — and how those spaces, in turn, record and reflect our presence and passage through time.
Homecoming: In Color celebrates the reopening of Rockford Art Museum after a year-long renovation closure. This exhibition features a selection of popular pieces and hidden gems, showcasing the rich diversity of our revered collection. Come witness the power of art and community as we welcome you back to a vibrant space of creativity!
Feb 03 Tuesday
Mitch Frumkin, Chicago Auto Show historian, presents a 50-minute video featuring a captivating mix of vintage photos, color film clips, period music, and voices from over 100 editions of the classic Chicago Auto Show.
Emphasis will be given to showcase a pair of Guanci SJJ 1 GT sports cars displayed at the 1980 Chicago Auto Show due to its relevance from the Guanci Automobile Factory once located at 220 N. Madison St. in Woodstock.
At the end of the program, five sets of complimentary passes to the 118th Chicago Auto Show taking place February 7-16 will be raffled off to one lucky participant, among other prizes.
Free to attend, but advance registration is required.
Feb 04 Wednesday
The art of David Van Delinder is now on display in the Lowden Gallery from January 1 – February 28.
David’s career actually began in the music business. Blessed with talent in both art and music, he was a premier area guitarist at a young age, recording and performing with Chicago folk legends Bonnie Koloc, Steve Goodman, John Prine and others. His songs have been published and recorded by name artists.
When the road became unsuitable for a married man and father, he turned to his other muse, art. He worked his way up to senior art director for a well-known Chicago agency before deciding to go out on his own. He became a successful and respected freelance illustrator and graphic designer creating art and designs for billboards, magazines, packaging, and books.
David’s fine art is rooted in traditional technique and classical composition. His pen and ink drawings of abandoned barns and jazz musicians, impressionistic florals, landscapes, and classical oil portraits all display both virtuosity and inspiration.
Mr. Van Delinder also accepts commissioned portraits and other works in oil, pastel, charcoal and pen and ink. His pencil portraits of musicians and dancers are very popular and highly sought after.
He lives and works in Cherry Valley, IL.
Feb 05 Thursday