Community Calendar

The Next Picture Show community arts center in Dixon presents 2 juried shows through Aug. 9: "Abstract," an exhibit that explores artists who push the bounds of their 2-and-3-D artwork through abstraction; and "The Power of Words," exhibit that invited artists to find a fusion between word and visual arts in their works.

An opening reception and awards presentation will be held on Friday, Jul. 9, from 6-8 p.m.

The Next Picture Show community arts center in Dixon presents 2 juried shows through Aug. 9: "Abstract," an exhibit that explores artists who push the bounds of their 2-and-3-D artwork through abstraction; and "The Power of Words," exhibit that invited artists to find a fusion between word and visual arts in their works.

An opening reception and awards presentation will be held on Friday, Jul. 9, from 6-8 p.m.

June 1 – July 31: Taft Gallery - Artist Mary Howe

Born and raised on the Northwest side of the city in Chicago, Mary along with her husband George moved to the quaint town of Oregon Illinois in 2019. After raising two sons, a long career in retail management and real estate Mary finally found the time to dedicate herself to her favorite hobby of painting.

Mary continues to welcome the challenges of working through landscapes, still life and portraits as well as participating in the Rock River Valley Painters Guild Plein Air Group.

The DeKalb Township will host an AARP Safe Driver Course at their facility on July 9th & 10th. This 8-hour AARP Smart Driver course (split into 2 four-hour days) teaches valuable defensive driving strategies and provides a refresher of the rules of the road. Participants may also qualify for a multi-year automobile insurance discount by completing the course. Space is limited and attendees must pre-register for the course by calling the DeKalb Township at 815-758-8282. The classroom course costs $20 for AARP Members and $25 for non-members. Financial Assistance is available to qualifying DeKalb Township residents who are unable to pay the course fee. All inquiries about this course can be directed to Kimberly Barrios, Administrative & Communications Lead for the DeKalb Township.

Parents, are you looking for fun ways to keep your kids engaged this summer? Bring them to Camp Creativity — a series of interactive activities designed for school-aged children and led by Northern Illinois University students. Fuel your child’s curiosity and watch their creativity come to life!

This program is limited to the first 20 children. Sign-up will begin at the children’s desk one hour before the event.

For additional information, please email Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.

Looking to create or improve your resume without spending a dime? Join our Resume Workshop, where we'll guide you through the process of crafting a professional, job-winning resume using free tools. Whether you're starting fresh or fine-tuning your current resume, this workshop will provide practical tips and access to valuable templates, resume builders, and optimization techniques. Presented by McHenry County College. FREE. Registration is required.

Draw, craft, or make-and-take and display your creativity at Teen Art Club! We’ll have new projects and art materials to try at every meeting.

This program is intended for teens in grades 6-12. No registration is required but this program is first come, first served as supplies are limited.

For additional information, please contact Jesus at juanb@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3401.

The Spongebob Musical
June 4-7 & July 9-13
Suggested Audience: All Ages

Dive into a vibrant, all-singing & dancing extravaganza with The SpongeBob Musical! When a volcano threatens to destroy Bikini Bottom, it’s up to SpongeBob and his crew to unite and save their beloved undersea home. As tensions rise and hope seems lost, an unlikely hero emerges, proving that the power of optimism can truly change the world. Based on the iconic animated series, this sensational musical features a dazzling score by legendary artists like Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Cyndi Lauper, David Bowie, and more. This deep-sea adventure is a joyride for all ages. The future is bright; the future is bold—join us under the sea this summer for an unforgettable adventure with The SpongeBob Musical!

The Coliseum Museum of Art, Antiques & Americana presents Around the Farm, juried art show that celebrates farm life and farming and highlights the importance of agriculture in our area in original works in a wide variety of media, Jun. 6-Jul. 12.

This annual competition is open to artists living in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Freeport Art Museum's annual Regional Juried Exhibition (RJE) mission is to offer established and emerging artists the opportunity to debut work created in the last two years. Opening on Saturday, May 10, 2025, the show runs through July 19, 2025. As FAM has gained a distinguished reputation for displaying a wide range of contemporary art, this exhibition has become a visitor's favorite.

Each year, FAM invites a new juror to select approximately 50 artworks for inclusion, and to give awards for first, second, third place, and honorable mention. This year's juror is Rodrick Whetstone, an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design teaching in the Department of Art and Design at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Award winners are announced at the opening reception.

The museum is open 10-5 Tuesday-Friday; 12-5 Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday