Wheeling library seeking next maker-in-residence

Suburban painters, crafters and other artists who want to show off their skills can apply for the 2026 maker-in-residence program at Wheeling’s Indian Trails Public Library.

Each summer, the chosen artist spends six weeks creating a piece in the Launch Pad, the library’s maker space, as patrons work on their own projects in the same area. Once completed, the piece is displayed at the library, 355 Schoenbeck Road.

Patrons don’t just watch the work develop — they can also attend free, hands-on workshops hosted by the artists. Patrons have contributed to the pieces the makers-in-residence have created, too.

“Previous makers in residence have really enjoyed the opportunity to share their passion with the community and create a custom piece of art for the library,” Launch Pad manager Liz Poppenhouse said in a news release.

The program is open to artists who work in a variety of visual mediums. They can be painters or sculptors, for example, or use computerized equipment like 3D printers, just to name a few options.

The Launch Pad’s laser cutter, vinyl cutter, embroidery machine, 3D printers and sewing machines are at their disposal.

Makers-in-residence are paid $1,500 for their participation.

Interested artists should apply online at itpld.org/maker_in_residence. The deadline is Jan. 25.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and submit to background checks. Preference is given to applicants who plan to use tools available in the Launch Pad as part of their project. Indian Trails Public Library District residents are given preferential consideration, too.

The previous makers-in-residence reflect a wide range of artistic skills.

This past summer’s honoree was Buffalo Grove textile artist Mary Beth Michaels, a member of the North Suburban Needle Arts Guild. The community quilt she and the patrons who participated in her workshop made is on display in the library’s Muriel Lischett Reading Room, which is in the adult services area on the second floor.

Animator and visual artist Shannon Lee was the maker-in-residence in 2024. She and patrons made a stop-motion video called “We All Have a Story to Share” that can be viewed on the library’s YouTube channel.

The 2023 maker-in-residence was Buffalo Grove sculptor Anastasia Sitnikov, who made a macramé piece that incorporated objects created by library patrons. It hangs in the entrance to the reading room.

Learn more about the maker-in-residence program at itpld.org/maker_in_residence.