Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists returns to Elmhurst with ‘Small Works’ exhibition

The Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists returns to the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild Gallery with a dynamic juried exhibition that proves size is no limitation to artistic impact. The CAVA “Small Works” exhibition, on view through June 26, 2026, presents over 100 works of fine art selected from 186 submissions, offering a compelling exploration of the big impact of small artwork.

Spanning a wide range of media, including painting and drawing, encaustic, sculpture, photography, printmaking, assemblage and collage, fiber, ceramics, and cast bronze, the exhibition showcases the breadth of contemporary art practice within a compact format.

Each piece measures no more than 24 inches in any direction, yet the collective experience is expansive. Among the works is the smallest piece in the show, a delicate 5-inch by 5-inch bronze-cast pinecone created by John Hajicek of Chicago, underscoring the exhibition’s emphasis on intimacy and detail

Twelve three-dimensional works add a strong sculptural presence, featuring materials such as ceramic, assemblage, fabric and beads, bonsai, paper, glass, wood, metal, and mixed media. Together, these particular works form a vibrant and varied collection that highlights how much can be expressed within a limited scale.

Small-scale artwork invites up-close looking which encourages viewers to slow down and notice subtle textures, layered meanings, and emotional nuance. Small pieces often feel like personal discoveries or visual “treasures” that reward attention and foster connection.

This exhibition celebrates the precision and mastery required to create impactful work on a small scale, proving that artistic vision transcends size.

The show was juried by Dan Addington, artist and owner of Addington Gallery in Chicago, and Andrew Sobol, associate professor and chair of the Department of Art & Design at Elmhurst University.

Reflecting on the selection process, Sobol shared: “What stood out to me while jurying the exhibit was the range: the variety of media, styles, subjects, and approaches, alongside the moods and emotions expressed across the submitted works. Some pieces are playful or humorous, while others feel nostalgic, melancholy, joyful, or quietly reflective. That range gives the exhibition energy and shows how much can be expressed within a small format.”

“I was intrigued and impressed by the level of creativity and imagination evidenced in this group of submissions,” Addington added. “In some cases, I was moved by the feeling of honesty and emotional content present in the work. In other pieces, there existed a strong element of invention that made the work truly engaging.”

CAVA Board President Chris Cantele expressed enthusiasm about the organization’s return to Elmhurst: “We’re thrilled to be back at the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild Gallery -- such a respected and welcoming venue for fine art.”

Exhibition manager and CAVA board member Rebecca Russow added, “This show brings together an incredible diversity of materials and perspectives. It’s a top-tier experience that invites viewers of all ages to slow down, look closely, and discover something meaningful.”

CAVA’s membership includes fine artists from the city of Chicago, throughout the surrounding suburbs, and extending into Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana. The exhibition also includes artists from Elmhurst and DuPage County, reinforcing the strength and vibrancy of the local arts community.

“It is always exciting for me to participate in CAVA’s shows with such a diversity of talented artists,” said John Nester, a ceramicist from Elmhurst. “I am honored to have my raku fired piece called ‘Majesty’ selected for the 2026 Small Works Exhibition.”

Nester’s exquisite clay container measures 12 x 7 x 7 and is defined by spontaneous greens and golds that emerged during the raku firing, beautifully complemented by a handcrafted fused glass finial on the lid.

Visitors can further engage with select works through interactive content accessible via the Vibrant Cast platform posted near each piece of art, enhancing the viewing experience with additional insight and interpretation. The exhibition is designed as an accessible, family-friendly cultural experience that encourages curiosity, conversation, and discovery.

Workshop

In addition to the exhibition, CAVA will host a professional development workshop led by Adam Brown, owner of Osio-Brown, a local Elmhurst business serving artists.

“The Importance of Digitally Archiving Artwork: How Giclée Printing Can Enhance Your Art Career” will take place at the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild Gallery in the Elmhurst Art Museum from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 18. The workshop is free and open to all artists; RSVP is required at events@wearecava.org.

Opening reception

Everyone is invited to experience this special exhibition of fine art and enjoy an engaging, visually rich opportunity to discover unexpected moments of beauty and meaning.

The opening reception will be held at the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild Gallery in the Elmhurst Art Museum from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 12. Both the reception and exhibition are free and open to the public.

An added plus — all of the art in the exhibition is available for purchase to take home and treasure.

The Elmhurst Art Museum is located atw 150 S. Cottage Hill, Elmhurst. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays to Sundays. It is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

About CAVA

Founded in 1988, the Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists is a volunteer not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and connecting artists aged 50 and older at all stages of their art careers. It provides exhibition opportunities, professional development, networking, and community engagement for fine artists working across disciplines. The Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists gratefully acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.

About the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild

Founded in 1946, the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild is one of the region’s longest-standing visual arts organizations. Its mission is to support and promote the visual arts through exhibitions, education, and community engagement. The Guild operates the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild Gallery inside the Elmhurst Art Museum, presenting exhibitions and programs that showcase a wide range of contemporary artistic practice.

For more information, visit wearecava.org, elmhurstartistsguild.org or elmhurstartmuseum.org.