Once upon a time, in a swirling world of cornfields and skyscrapers known as Illinois, lived an extraordinary group of young artists. They weren't ordinary kids, oh no! They were members of the Splatter Society, Illinois' most creative crew! They squinted at sunsets, closely examining the colors for their next masterpiece. They saw shapes in the clouds that they couldn't wait to capture on canvas. Each one of them had a paintbrush in hand, crayon in pocket, or an idea bubbling in their brilliant brains. The leader of this vibrant crew was Mona the Laughing Llama, a magical creature with rainbow-colored wool and a beret perched jauntily on her head. She had a knack for making art out of everything, even using her multi-colored wool to knit beautiful tapestries! And oh boy, did she have a sense of humor! When she wasn't encouraging the kids to create, she was making them laugh so hard that their bellies ached. While the tall skyscrapers of Chicago reached for the sky, these kids' imaginations reached even further. From the rolling prairies of central Illinois to the bustling streets of Windy City, their art echoed the beauty, diversity, and energy of their state. They painted the Mississippi River as it sparkled under the sun, they drew the historic Route 66 with its neon signs and roadside attractions, and they crafted sculptures inspired by the mighty Lake Michigan. Like Picasso said, "Every child is an artist." In Illinois, the Splatter Society and their Laughing Llama leader proved him right, filling their state with color, laughter, creativity, and above all, extraordinary art. They were the heart of Illinois, splashing joy onto every canvas and every corner of their beloved state.
Read morebest visual-arts programs in Kankakee, IL
Yoga Playdate offers a unique and delightful opportunity for children and families to participate in yoga. This program is specifically crafted to cater to the needs and abilities of kids, making it an enjoyable and creative experience for them. Whether you're looking to incorporate mindfulness and movement into your child's routine or seeking a fun, active family activity, Yoga Playdate has something for everyone. In addition to regular yoga classes, Yoga Playdate provides various exciting events and services. These include birthday parties, camps, and retreats, all of which are designed to combine fitness with fun. These events not only encourage children to stay active but also provide opportunities for them to socialize and create lasting memories. Furthermore, Yoga Playdate emphasizes on wellness events to encourage a holistic approach to health and well-being. These events promote mindfulness and meaningful connections, creating a nurturing atmosphere for children and their families. They help children develop a positive relationship with exercise, equipping them with the skills to lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
The Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is a must-see destination for families visiting Provena Heritage Village in Kankakee, Illinois. Since 2009, the Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau has recognized the gallery as an “essential” tourism spot. This gallery is dedicated to enriching the lives of all ages in the Kankakee River Valley through the celebration of the arts. The gallery showcases the work of both local and regional artists from a variety of genres. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or new to the scene, the Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is a great place to explore and discover the beauty of the arts. The gallery also serves as an advocate for both local and visiting artists, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talents. A visit to the Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is sure to be a memorable experience for the entire family.