Three Grayslake artists to hold coordinated art garage sales

Safety concerns from the pandemic have halted many art fairs, and local artists have had a hard time replicating the in-person experience in a safe way.

But three Grayslake artists think they may have stumbled upon a solution. Colored pencil artist Phil Schorn, watercolor artist Jim Brooksher and photographer Ernest J. Schweit are banding together — while still remaining separate — to sell their wares at what they are calling Art in the Garage.

All three will host sales of their art in their respective garages around Grayslake from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and customers can travel to one or more of them and see their work in person.

Schweit said the idea is to create a driving tour of sorts for customers who then won't have to fear the crowds at more traditional art fairs.

“It reminds me of something I've seen in Europe where it's not uncommon to see struggling artists throw their art on a blanket in the street,” Schweit said. “It's like we're doing the suburban American version of that.”

Schweit said part of the fun of doing art fairs, beyond selling work, is getting to meet people.

He said he hopes Art in the Garage gathers steam and becomes a regular event.

Schweit's home is at 1189 Blackburn Drive, Brooksher's home is 388 Kerry Way, and Schorn's home is at 1494 Leeward Court.

At each garage, visitors will be given a handout with the addresses and information about each artist so they know where to go next.