North Central Illinois ARTworks

09/05/2026

The Abbey dedication this evening was very well attended. Lots of artists came too. What a wonderful space to showcase local art. 👩‍🎨

09/04/2026

Christmas isn’t that far away. The “ABCs Gone Wild” by Kathy Casstevens is currently at the NCI Artworks Gallery in the Westclox building in Peru IL. These are perfect gifts. Visit us M/W/F 10am-1pm or by appointment 815/310-5869. At gallery thru Oct 30.

09/04/2026

Join us on “the road”!

NCI ARTworks Heritage Corridor Art Explorations is offering four art-focused outings this season, combining tours, presentations and meals at regional destinations.

Two events are scheduled for fall 2026 and two for spring 2027. Registration is open to the public.

On Sept. 24, participants will tour the Hegeler Carus Mansion in La Salle, followed by lunch at the Uptown Grill.

On Nov. 12, the group will travel to historic downtown Dwight for lunch at 343 Firehouse Grill and a presentation on Gertrude Stein by Robert deOliveira. Optional boutique shopping near the restaurant follows the program.

On March 30, 2027, a bus trip to the Belushi Performance Hall at the College of DuPage will feature a presentation by Jeff Nigro, followed by lunch.

On April 27, 2027, participants will gather at Gaetano’s Vault in downtown Streatorfor lunch and a Breakfast at Tiffany’s-themed event featuring Leslie Goddard as Audrey Hepburn.

An optional $25 annual subscriber fee reduces the cost of each event by $15, offsetting program costs and supporting NCI ARTworks.

For more information, visit nciartworks.com.

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North Central Illinois ARTworks’ mission is to promote professionalism and diversity in the arts while creating cultural venues for public and private education, community events, economic development, and cultural tourism.

Gallery Hours: Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, or by appointment.Events: Hosts a free gallery opening reception on the second Fridays to showcase regional artists.

Programs & Offerings: Arts on the Go / Heritage Corridor Art Explorations: Offers curated cultural, wellness, and travel excursions, building on long-running regional art exploration traditions.

Murals & Community Projects: Collaborates with local muralists, musicians, writers, and performers to expand public art access.

Exhibitions: Features rotating monthly/bi monthly and seasonal tri-county community art displays.

www.nciartworks.com
[email protected]
(815) 310-5769
North Central Illinois ARTworks

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

09/03/2026

Get your tickets online www.408fineartsfactory.com under Visiting Artist tab at top of homepage or call 815/223-4408.

Music Suite 408 is proud to sponsor singer/songwriter Sarah McQuaid on Thursday, September 24, 2026 7pm at the Zion United Church of Christ, Peru, IL 61354. Additional support for this concert provided by NCI ARTworks.

Admission: $15 adults $5 students K-college with ID.

ABOUT SARAH

Sarah McQuaid’s lush, velvety voice combines with her engaging personality and “brilliant musicianship” (fRoots) on acoustic and electric guitars, keyboards and (occasionally) drum to create a truly immersive experience. Her live performances are full of warmth, wit, and intimacy, and have earned her loyal followings on both sides of the Atlantic.

Born in Spain, raised in Chicago, holding dual Irish and American citizenship and now settled in rural England, she brings the eclecticism of her background to her “captivating, unorthodox songwriting” (PopMatters) and choice of material. From contemplative ballads to playful blues to atmospheric instrumentals, Sarah’s music invites reflection, connection, and a deep appreciation of the quiet power of a well-crafted song.

In the words of one audience member: “Sarah is a truly impressive artist who takes you on a journey through storytelling, blending a variety of musical genres and instruments with ease and creativity. Her lyrics are down-to-earth yet incredibly captivating. Attending her concert feels like diving into a book of short stories — some resonate deeply, some spark your imagination, others make you pause and reflect, and a few bring tears or spontaneous laughter. Sarah’s connection with the audience is both gentle and profound. You don’t just watch a performance — you become part of it, part of the story she’s telling. … To anyone considering seeing her live: go. It’s worth every second. You’ll leave with your heart full and your soul touched — guaranteed.”

08/31/2026

Come celebrate Nico’s birthday !