Algonquin host open house for new art display

On Thursday, Oct. 21, the village of Algonquin will hold an open house kickoff event to unveil more than 35 new artworks for public display at the village hall, 2200 Harnish Drive. The open house reception, from 6 to 8 p.m., is free and open to the public.

It will be the launch of the village's sixth Public Art Program. In its first five years, the Algonquin Public Art Program won three awards from Urban Innovation in Illinois, the Illinois chapter of the American Planning Association, and the Illinois Municipal League.

Light refreshments will be served during the opening reception and many of the participating artists will be in attendance to talk about their work. The Algonquin Village Board and Public Arts Commission will discuss the program at 7 p.m. After the open house, the public art pieces will be installed at 12 indoor and four outdoor locations around the village hall.

All artworks for display are on loan from the artists for at least one year. The artworks were evaluated by the Algonquin Public Arts Commission and village board using criteria outlined in the Algonquin Public Art Master Plan.

The Algonquin Public Art Program was established in 2005 with the purpose of enhancing the community's sense of place through a celebration of art. The placement of art in public spaces is intended to enrich, stimulate, and enhance the aesthetic experience. Overall, the Public Art Program will create a richer place for residents and visitors and define Algonquin as a unique place in the region.

For details, call Ben Mason, senior planner, at (847) 658-4184.