Arts & Entertainment
Sustainable Collage Project Opens at the Des Plaines History Center Art Gallery
Small artworks have a big impact.
The Ken Project is all about creativity and sustainability. It’s on display through August 27 at the Des Plaines History Center Gallery, 781 Pearson Street, Des Plaines, IL, 60016.
Ken, a long-time Des Plaines resident with an artistic eye, collected a vast assortment of images from various sources, including a wide variety of magazines. He meticulously cut and assembled these images to create beautifully curated, complex arrangements.
When Rhonda Popko, dedicated art educator, community activist, and President of the Des Plaines Art Guild, was gifted Ken's extraordinary portfolios, she immediately saw their value as a way for people to reuse the materials, so we all could appreciate what Ken had spent years putting together.
Find out what's happening in Des Plainesfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In a number of workshops for The Ken Project, participants used empty CD cases as their canvas, and made their own unique artworks, under the expert guidance of Rhonda and members of the Des Plaines Art Guild. Workshops were held at the History Center, the Des Plaines Public Library, and the GENCenter in Des Plaines. More workshops are being planned, and information will be available on the Des Plaines Art Guild website: dpag.org
The results are not only beautiful, but inspiring as well because of their carefully crafted use of upcycled materials. Everyone involved in The Ken Project workshops brought their passion and ingenuity to showcase how creativity and sustainability can live together, bringing joy and happiness to all who are fortunate to see these small works of art.
Find out what's happening in Des Plainesfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Des Plaines Public Library hosted the first Ken Project in March, and we are proud to host the next iteration in our Gallery through August 27.
Come, spend some time with these pieces, and we think you will be inspired to create sustainably forever.
The Closing Reception for The Ken Project is Thursday, August 27, 5:30–8:00p, with a discussion about the project and the artworks at 7:00p. An RSVP is appreciated and can be sent via the link on The Ken Project page on our website, DesPlainesHistory.org.
The Des Plaines History Center Gallery is open weekdays, 10:00a–4:00p; second Sundays, 10:00a–2:00p; and by appointment. Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted. Call 847-391-5399 or email contact@desplaineshistory.org with questions or to make an appointment.
