Track hosts Prairie State Art Fest

The Prairie State Art Festival returns to Arlington Park racetrack this weekend - 15 juried artisans from Illinois competing for $5,000 in prize money along with a $2,000 Best in Show.

The public is invited to see the show, and stay for a full day of racing,

On Saturday, June 20, the standard general admission of $7 applies ($6 if bought in advance at www.arlingtonpark.com) and includes a full day of racing plus a day of art and activities.

On Sunday, Father's Day, admission is $10 ($7 if purchased online).

Notable artists include Illinois native Marilyn Hageman who, throughout her career, has explored the imagery of the horse. Marilyn's drive to depict the horse on a grand scale can be at least partially explained by her DNA: Her ancestors Gutzon and Solon Borglum were both recognized for their monumental work of horses and figures.

Another artist at the show, Barbagallos, will allow kids to use his potter's wheel to learn how to form clay.

The show is in conjunction with the 2009 Prairie State Festival of Racing, where Illinois-bred horses will vie for total purse money in excess of $600,000 in the 10th annual Prairie State Festival.

Arlington Park is at 2200 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. The park is open 11:15 a.m.- 6 p.m. both days, with the first post at 1 p.m.

Call (847) 385-7410 or visit www.arlingtonpark.com.