Four historic and architecturally significant buildings in Downtown Rockford are the inspiration and focus of “Urban Treasures: Renaissance through Imagination,” a group exhibition opening in the Kortman Gallery on October 5th and 6th (ArtScene weekend).
Twelve Rockford artists were invited to create art inspired or influenced by four prominent, yet endangered buildings: The Midway Theater, The Armory, The Elks Club, and the Ziock/Amerock Building. Multi-media works are influenced by each of the buildings' unique design characteristics, historic stature, and imaginative future.
According to gallery director Doc Slafkosky each of the 4 buildings was selected not only for their unique and historic architectural styles, but also for their prominent locations in Downtown Rockford.
“Most importantly, these endangered treasures also have a great amount of potential in the future to be something very special,” said Slafkosky. “Each of the buildings serves a very different purpose, but they all could be a very important part of the cultural life of our city, since their future use will most likely involve the general public.”
Participating artists include: Ryan Davis, R. Scott Long, Doug Connell of Engine Studio, Robert Sunday, Shari Grace, Keith Grace, Kyle Wolfe, Michael Bugler, Jeremy Klonicki, Matt Herbig, Margret Hesler Hynes, Betsy Youngquist, and Gary W. Anderson Architects.
An opening reception for “Urban Treasures: Renaissance through Imagination,” will be Friday, October 5th from 5 to 9pm, and Saturday, October 6th from 3 to 9 pm which coincides with Fall Rockford ArtScene weekend. The art will be on display through November 17th, 2012. The gallery is located upstairs at J. R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 North Main Street. For further information call 815/968-0123 or visit www.jrkortman.com.
What: “Urban Treasures: Renaissance through Imagination,” a group exhibition
When: Opening reception: Friday, October 5th, 5 to 9pm and Saturday, October 6th,
from 3 to 9pm (ArtScene weekend). The exhibition runs through
November 17th. Gallery & Store open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 6pm.
Where: Kortman Gallery, upstairs at J. R. Kortman Center for Design,
107 North Main St.
Admission: Free