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 Manteno, IL
DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.
The Manteno Public Library District is a vibrant community hub that offers educational and cultural resources for lifelong learning. With a vast selection of materials and services, the library provides the residents of the Library District with the opportunity to reach their personal, educational, and informational goals. From convenient access to information to stimulating an interest in reading and learning, the library is a great resource for the entire community. The Manteno Public Library District is dedicated to helping the community thrive by providing quality resources for lifelong learning. With a wide variety of materials and services, the library makes it easy for residents to access the information they need and to explore their interests. The library also encourages an interest in reading and learning among all ages, making it a great place to go for everyone. The Manteno Public Library District is a vital asset to the community, providing educational and cultural experiences for all ages. From nurturing personal growth to offering a resource center for the entire community, the library provides an extensive selection of materials and services to help residents reach their informational, educational, and personal goals. With its commitment to lifelong learning, the Manteno Public Library District is a great place to explore and grow.