On September 10, 2021, Illinois Art Station celebrated the opening of its new facility with a party in support of art! The evening event’s attendance stretched the facility to its COVID capacity, bringing together IAS supporters from across the Bloomington-Normal community. “We are thrilled to finally welcome visitors to IAS,” said Laura Jaster, Illinois Art Station’s Executive Director. “We are also so grateful for the opportunity to thank all of the members of the Illinois Art Station family who have been with us throughout our journey and who have really made this moment possible.”
The completion of Illinois Art Station’s building project represents both the culmination of a great deal of hard work and dedication by many members of the community as well as the beginning of IAS being able to deliver on its mission of providing transformative art experiences for children, youth, and teens across Bloomington-Normal. “Having this beautiful building and surrounding landscape will allow us to provide truly unique and meaningful arts experiences as well as a welcoming, safe space for the young people of our community,” said Jaster. “We really owe this moment to our founding donor, Dr. Laura Berk. Without her vision, dedication, and commitment, we would not be at this point – poised to make a difference in the lives of children.”
Located at 101 E. Vernon Ave in Normal, the new home of Illinois Art Station encompasses more than 7000 square feet that includes two art studios, a gallery, and an art library. IAS has begun small-scale fall programming in the new facility and is planning for more extensive programming that will launch in spring and summer of 2022.
