Ottawa Center for the Arts

06/03/2026

Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center is excited to announce a new partnership with WALLS 102, a Shaw Local Radio Station, to bring an exclusive live music experience to the Veranda this summer. The Starved Rock Songwriters Series will feature talented emerging artists and acclaimed songwriters from Nashville's Music Row, offering guests an intimate evening of music, storytelling, and unforgettable performances in one of Illinois' most scenic settings.

Admission is free and open to the public. Stay tuned for additional performance dates and artist announcements as the Starved Rock Songwriters Series continues throughout the summer. Upcoming performers, event details, and series updates will be available through Starved Rock Lodge and Walls 102.

Full release linked here: https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/starved-rock-walls-102-present/

06/03/2026

06/03/2026

IAC Creative Projects Grant Workshop
Wednesday, June 10th at 5:30 p.m.
Ottawa Center for the Arts, The Great Hall, 910 Columbus Street, Ottawa, IL
Starved Rock Country Community Foundation
Ottawa Center for the Arts

Join Program Director, Danielle Heal, hosted by Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, at the Ottawa Center for the Arts on June 10th, at 5:30 pm to meet and greet area grantees and potential grantees.

This short program will include a brief overview of the agency and available grants with a focus on grants for our upcoming Creative Projects Grant application and how to apply.

There will be plenty of time to answer any questions.

RSVP: https://forms.gle/EoZDZPv4stSKoUZF7

Questions? Email: [email protected] or email the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation: [email protected]

06/03/2026

The City of Ottawa Arts Committee invites you to our second annual Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival in Ottawa, IL. Plein air artists are invited to use their vision and talents to capture picturesque scenes. Nestled just 80 miles southwest of Chicago, Ottawa, Illinois, is a hidden gem for artists seeking inspiration. With its beautifully landscaped downtown, historic churches, architecture, and vibrant public parks, the city offers a diverse and dynamic backdrop for plein air painters. Framed by the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, Ottawa boasts breathtaking waterfront views, lush nature preserves, and charming streetscapes, making it the perfect setting for an immersive outdoor painting experience.

Over three days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, create, and compete for $5,000 in prizes graciously donated by Bob and Cheryl Nelson, while connecting with fellow artists and art lovers in a welcoming, inspiring environment.

Whether you’re drawn to the rich textures of historic architecture, the soft light reflecting off the river, or the serenity of our natural landscapes, Ottawa has a scene for every artistic vision. Come paint with us and let the town become your canvas!

Event Schedule

Friday, September 11 – Town Tours
• Get inspired and discover Ottawa’s most scenic spots before painting begins!
• Two guided bus tours are available
• Tours will highlight historic sites, hidden gems, and ideal painting locations

Saturday, September 12 – Paint the Town
• All-day painting begins
• Artists may set up anywhere within the Ottawa city limits to paint en plein air

Sunday, September 13 – Awards Exhibition at Nell's Woodland
• 8:00 AM – All completed artwork must be turned in for judging
• 10:00 AM – Awards Exhibition & Winner Announcements, and Easel Sales
• 11:00 AM Nell's Woodland Arts Day, including activities, demonstrations, and food!


Awards & Prizes ($5,000 Total Prize Pool)
• Best in Show — $2,000
• 2nd Place — $1,000
• 3rd Place — $600
• 4th Place — $400
• 4 × Judge’s Choice — $250 each

Artist Guidelines
• All artwork must be created on location within Ottawa city limits during the festival.
• Any traditional plein air medium is allowed.
• May paint as many pieces as they like, but only one piece per artist may be submitted for judging.
• Artwork must be submitted by 8:00 AM on Sunday, September 13 for eligibility.

Experience the joy of plein air painting in a vibrant, welcoming community. Whether you’re competing or just enjoying the sights, Paint the Town is a celebration of art, nature, and the spirit of Ottawa.

Learn more and apply: https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=17476

06/03/2026

The City of Ottawa Arts Committee invites the public to Create and Donate to the Free Little Art Gallery this summer! Located in front of Annette Barr Photography Studio (215 W Main St), the Free Little Art Gallery is a fun way for artists to share small works (think business card size) and for the community to add tiny treasures to their art collections.

Artwork can be left in the mailbox located at Annette Barr Photography Studio. Remember to sign your work!

06/01/2026

Creative Project Grant Workshop
Wednesday, June 10 at 5:30 pm at Ottawa Center for the Arts

Join Program Director, Danielle Heal, hosted by Starved Rock Country Community Foundation, at the Ottawa Center for the Arts on June 10th, at 5:30 pm to meet and greet area grantees and potential grantees. This short program will include a brief overview of the agency and available grants with a focus on grants for our upcoming Creative Projects Grant application and how to apply.
RSVP here: https://forms.gle/EoZDZPv4stSKoUZF7