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2026 International Slow Art Day on Route 66 in Bloomington/Normal
This year’s Slow Art Day on Route 66 marks five years of encouraging folks to slow down and discover the joy of art in Central Illinois; as well as 100 years of the Mother Road. Over 20 locations across McLean County are participating in this inclusive, accessible, art education and appreciation event on Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All Slow Art Day goers are welcome to attend a free closing reception with sips and bites at the Herb Eaton Studio & Gallery from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. in Downtown Bloomington.
Slow Art Day festivities will take place at museums, galleries, studios, sculpture parks, and other cultural sites across all seven continents. With a simple mission, Slow Art Day aims to help more people discover for themselves the joy of looking at and loving art. In April 2022, Bloomington-Normal was credited with holding the first citywide Slow Art Day celebration in the world. Downtown Bloomington has an inspiring art scene with over 100 local artists’ work on display, over a dozen individual art spaces open to the public, and more than 35 public art installations.
Pamala Eaton, gallerist and owner of Herb Eaton Studio and Gallery, states, “Collaborating with the other artists and galleries in our community for Slow Art Day has given our local art scene more visibility and we are now attracting more local and out of town visitors to our art locations.”
“Slow looking and slow making are invaluable practices and transformative acts in our exceedingly expeditious world,” says Hannah Johnson, Bloomington-based arts and humanities educator. “Slow Art Day helps place the emphasis on practice. Take a moment, or a few, to practice being present in life with and through art.”
There’s something for everyone to enjoy on Slow Art Day. This year’s guests will have a chance to explore the art studios and galleries of Downtown Bloomington artists beginning with a Slow Art Day Preview Night on First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m. and continuing on Saturday, April 11.
Meander from the Downtown Bloomington art galleries to a world built of discarded machinery, scrap parts, and concrete for a Sunday, April 12 program at the nearby 410 Sculpture Park in partnership with Bloomington Public Library (registration required).
Experience art viewing and artmaking in Normal at University Galleries of Illinois State University on Saturday, April 11 (with registration) and at Illinois Art Station two weeks later on their free fourth Saturday, April 25. The mission of Slow Art Day continues into May with a slow looking-inspired exhibition at The Coffeehouse in Uptown Normal featuring artists from The Hangar Art Company.
As always, Slow Art Day on Route 66 is prime time for studio and gallery visitors to collect stamps in their Art Scene in McLean County Passport, made possible by VisitBN.
Participating locations, activities, and hours are included below:
410 S. Madison St., Bloomington, IL
Saturday, April 11 visit 410 Sculpture Park beneath the Main Street bridge to view a variety of large-scale art pieces made from discarded metal machinery, a concrete lady, a concrete “whale of a tail,” a bronze by Herb Eaton, and even a dinosaur!
Sunday, April 12 from 1-3 p.m., Slow Looking at 410 Sculpture Park in partnership with Bloomington Public Library. Registration required. No later than 1pm, participants are to meet at 410 Sculpture Park (410 South Madison Street, Bloomington) to view work created by local artist Tom Kirk and the crew at Power House Art. This bilingual program (offered in English and Spanish) will conclude at Bloomington Public Library (205 East Olive Street, Bloomington) and will require traversing uneven terrain and the use of stairs to access restrooms. In observation of Slow Art Day, participants will take a close look at larger-than-life artworks inspired by industrial materials before creating art in response to the work on display. Slow looking doesn’t just take place once each year. Participants will learn strategies that will improve their outlook on the world around them all year long. This program is for youth ages 5 to 15 years and their parent/guardian. An adult must accompany each minor participant. Space is limited to no more than 30 participants (15 minors; 15 adults).
Hours: Sunup to Sundown Daily
Fourth year
101 W. Monroe St., Suite 210, Downtown Bloomington, IL
Featuring photography by Yolanda Alonso, sculpture by Uncaged Arts & Practicals, and collages by Janean M. Baird.
First Friday, April 3 and on Saturday, April 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Upcycled Curiosities will also be popping up at Art Vortex Studio.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fifth year
313 N. Main St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Photographic techniques.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Second year
205 E. Olive St., Bloomington, IL
Saturday, April 11 visit the second floor of Bloomington Public Library to view and enjoy the featured local artist works on display.
Sunday, April 12 from 1-3 p.m., Slow Looking at 410 Sculpture Park in partnership with Bloomington Public Library. Registration required. This program is for youth ages 5 to 15 years and their parent/guardian. An adult must accompany each minor participant. Space is limited to no more than 30 participants (15 minors; 15 adults).
Hours: Saturday April 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
First year
329 W Main St., Lexington IL
Local artist Kasey Wells (2022 Art Prize top winner) has his award-winning American Eagle and American Standard on permanent display in Lexington. The Memory Lane restoration project will be complete and ready for a scenic drive. The historic Lexington Neon sign is a must see while in town. On Saturday, April 11, the Main Street businesses and Community Center will be hosting Bloom on Main. Outside art vendors to be included in the day’s activities.
Hours: Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
First year
411 N. Center St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Slowly view the art in and on Eaton Gallery, a 1902 historic building on Old Historic Route 66. Herb Eaton’s “Illinois Dancer” mural is a great Route 66 photo op spot Downtown. The public is invited to a closing reception with sips and bites from 2:30 to 5 p.m.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Seventh year
101 East Vernon Ave., Normal, IL
Stop by Illinois Art Station for Free Fourth Saturday on April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy drop-in artmaking with a variety of self-guided activities for all ages.
In celebration of Slow Art Day, take time to slow down and experience art throughout the building, including works created by our own visitors. In the gallery, discover the beauty of Central Illinois through the lens of local bird photographers. Featuring both year-round residents and seasonal visitors, this exhibit highlights the rich diversity of birdlife found in nearby parks and natural areas. From vibrant cardinals to migratory warblers, each image offers a glimpse into the wildlife that surrounds us.
Hours: Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fourth year
200 W. Monroe St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Artists will be on hand to discuss their art.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fifth year
418 North Main St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Circus paintings in honor of the circus history in Bloomington-Normal.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
First year
103 W. Monroe Street, Downtown Bloomington, IL
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
First year
Joann Goetzinger Studio Gallery
313 N. Main St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Art by Sheila Allen, Linda Healy, Martha Burk and Joann Goetzinger.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fifth year
404 N. Main St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Select works in the gallery will be featured with slow looking prompts.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 12-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fifth year
Main Street Yoga/Von Champs Boutique
402 North Main Street, Downtown Bloomington, IL
First Friday April 3, Support our local up-and-coming artists at this student-centered art show! Area students will have their art available to view and/or sell at this one night exhibit at Von Champs Boutique! This is a great opportunity to see the world through new eyes and to continue to encourage the younger population to cultivate their work! This is a free event in partnership with First Friday.
Saturday, April 11, Upcycled Curiosities pop up.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
First year
Mandy Roeing Fine Art Studio and Gallery
105-A W. Monroe St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Landscapes, beachscapes, and pet portraits in soft pastel by Mandy Roeing.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 5-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fourth year
601 N East St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
The 99th Annual Regional Emerging Artist Exhibition featuring work by high school, university, and adult artists continues through April 24, 2026. This juried exhibition highlights the diverse creativity of our community. With artworks spanning drawing, textiles, and sculpture, this year’s event perfectly upholds the MCAC’s tradition of spotlighting talented emerging artists who deserve recognition.
Saturday, April 11 free portrait workshop, all skill levels are welcome and supplies are provided.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fourth year
McLean County Museum of History
200 N Main Street, Downtown Bloomington, IL
The McLean County Museum of History is highlighting the work of the farmer-turned-sculptor, Robert Cumpston (1930-2018). For over 30 years, Cumpston and his wife, Donna, traveled the country selling his oxidized-metal animal sculptures crafted from recycled farm implements. One of Cumpston’s llamas is this year’s Sculpture on the Square. More of Cumpston’s creatures are on display inside the Museum on the first floor. Slow Art lookers can sit on an antique bench to ponder the display and wonder what in the heck the metal scraps were before they became a work of art!
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fifth year
206 W. College Ave., Normal, IL
In celebration of the Normal Seed Library, Plant Matter brings together local artists whose work connects with the natural environment. From seeds and plants to gardens and landscapes, Earth’s cycles and seasons, these works are inspired by plant matter as subject, material, and form, and encourage us to think about how we might interact and connect with the world around us.
The Normal Seed Library is located on the first floor of the Normal Public Library by the computer lab. It is a seed project committed to making wholesome food and native plants free and available to our community members. This project invites everyone to explore the collection and participate in using and donating seeds, fostering community resilience, self-reliance, and a culture of sharing. The collection is made possible by the Normal Public Library in partnership with the University of Illinois Extension.
Thank you to our participating artists: Ruben Castillo, Alex Cox, Samantha Cox, Amy Cousins, Alyssa Davis, Judith Caroline Feist, Sara Barrero Florez, Cass Holowicki, Jade Hoyer, Lisa Lofgren, Hannah McNichol, Melissa Oresky, Morgan Price, Marilee Salvator, Sarah Sciba, Tanya Scott, Tonja Torgerson, Ellie Weston, Amy Wolfe, Amy Yeager, Al Yi, and Micah Zavacky.
Hours: Saturday April 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
First year
404 N. Prairie St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
17th annual “What’s So Good About Good Friday?” art show centers on the power of Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and resurrection to give hope to our fallen world. Art will be shown at Second Presbyterian Church from Sunday, March 29 (Palm Sunday) to Sunday, April 5 (Easter Sunday). Each year, we see artistic creations that stir our souls and help us contemplate the beauty of the cross.
Hours: Thursday April 2 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; First Friday April 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with an Artists’ Reception from 5-6:30 p.m. and Good Friday Worship Service at 7:00 p.m.
First year
Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge & Eatery
105 W. Front St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Dave Fulghum, a photographer based in central Illinois, will have a selection of his work on display at Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge and Eatery. Known for his striking Art Portrait and Cityscape photography, Fulghum’s images highlight the beauty and uniqueness of people, objects and structures through thoughtful lighting and composition. Visitors are invited to slow down, take their time, and experience the artwork in a relaxed setting while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Bloomington.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday April 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
First year
The Painted Wraith Curiosity Shoppe
106 W. Monroe St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
A strange and unusual curiosity shop with original art from local artists. Featuring a new, moonlit Route 66 painting by co-owner Mike Stoltz. You never know what you may find, the stock is ever changing.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Third year
The Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space
623 E Adams St., Springfield, IL
We have a combination Route 66 exhibition of Bob Waldmire ink drawings and David Schwartz photography.
Hours: Saturday April 11 from 12 – 6 p.m.
First year
200 W. Monroe St., Downtown Bloomington, IL
Selected special prices on some items.
Hours: First Friday April 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Saturday April 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fourth year
University Galleries of Illinois State University
Sensory-friendly morning 11 a.m. – 12 noon, and all-ages artmaking workshop 1-2:30 p.m. registration required.
Hours: Saturday April 11 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Second year
Photo Credit: Lyndsie Schlink, courtesy of University Galleries of Illinois State University.
Sign up now to be one of the host locations for Slow Art Day on Route 66 happening on Saturday, April 11, 2026
Learn more about the international Slow Art Day movement at slowartday.com.
Read the latest article about the Illinois Event!
Reply with any questions/thoughts and we’ll do our best to address them. Slow Art Day on Route 66 is coordinated by a committee of volunteers with marketing support from VisitBN and the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
UPDATES:
Sat., April 18 — Pontiac, Illinois art opening!
Greater Livingston County Arts Council, 209 W. Madison St., Pontiac, IL 61764
www.pcartcenter.com.
You Are Cordially Invited to: “A Reverence for Visions/Aura, Essence, Echo”
By: John Betken
Opening Reception: Saturday, April 18, 2026, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Show Dates: April 15 – May 28, 2026
Sat., April 25 — Illinois Art Station in Normal, Illinois — Free Fourth Saturday
The mission of Slow Art Day continues into May with a slow looking-inspired exhibition at The Coffeehouse in Uptown Normal featuring artists from The Hangar Art Company.
Note: The Sun., April 12 Slow looking event at the 410 Sculpture Park in collaboration with Bloomington Public Library required registration and the event is full. Art educator Hannah Johnson from Powerhouse Art is facilitating the event with Yolanda Alonso of Latinos en BloNo.
All 3 Coffee Hound locations in Bloomington, Normal, and Lexington open on Slow Art Day, April 11.
