Quincy Art Center | Quincy

Quincy Art Center – Detailed Overview

Location and Building History

Address: 1515 Jersey Street, Quincy, Illinois

Historic Building: The Quincy Art Center is housed in a beautifully preserved 1887 carriage house, which was originally part of the Lorenzo Bull estate, a prominent local family.

Architectural Blend: In 1990, the center expanded with a modern wing to accommodate larger galleries and educational spaces, blending historic charm with contemporary functionality.

Mission and Vision

The Quincy Art Center’s mission is to foster appreciation, understanding, and participation in the visual arts within the Quincy community and surrounding region.

It serves as a cultural hub, supporting both local artists and art education for all ages.

Art Collections and Exhibitions

Permanent Collection

The center owns over 400 artworks, including:

Paintings

Drawings

Sculptures

Prints

These pieces represent a wide range of styles and periods, highlighting regional and national artists.

The collection is noted as the largest visual arts collection owned by a nonprofit organization in Adams County.

Rotating Exhibits

The center regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring:

Contemporary Midwestern artists

Traveling exhibitions from other museums or collections

Special themed shows focusing on particular art movements or media

Annual highlights include the High School Art Competition, which invites young artists from Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa to submit their work for juried awards, promoting youth engagement with the arts.

Educational Programs

Classes and Workshops

The Quincy Art Center offers art instruction for all ages and skill levels, including:

Drawing and painting

Ceramics and pottery

Printmaking

Mixed media and sculpture

Classes aim to encourage creativity, technical skill development, and personal expression.

Special Events

ArtFest: A family-friendly community event featuring live music, interactive art stations, and activities for all ages.

Artist Showcases: Events like the Mary S. Oakley & Lee Lindsay Area Artist Showcase highlight local artists, offering them exhibition opportunities and fostering community connections.

Workshops and lectures throughout the year further enrich the local art scene.

Visitor Information

Hours of Operation

Wednesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The hours have been adapted to better meet visitor needs based on community feedback.

Admission

Free and open to the public, encouraging accessibility for everyone interested in art.

Community Engagement and Impact

The Quincy Art Center serves as an important cultural institution in the region, promoting the arts not only through exhibitions but through education and community participation.

It supports emerging artists and nurtures art appreciation in the community by providing a welcoming space for creativity and learning.

The center’s programs strengthen local identity and contribute to Quincy’s reputation as a vibrant arts hub.

Contact and Additional Information

Phone: (217) 223-5900

The website offers information about current exhibits, class schedules, special events, and how to support the center through memberships or donations.

The Quincy Art Center stands as a vital and dynamic institution dedicated to celebrating and promoting visual arts, offering enriching experiences for residents and visitors alike.