Creativity Fest 2026: GROW & GATHER

two saturdays * FEBRUARY 7 AND 21

RAC will host Creativity Fest in the FlexSpace on February 7th and 21st, inviting the community to join in two Saturdays of artmaking led by our teaching artists, Shawn Vincent and Mr. Tee. Participants of all ages are invited to drop in between 10am and 2pm and add their personal artistic embellishments to a canvas we provide. Finished canvases will be displayed in a Community Exhibition at Town Hall!

While this is an Open House format, we encourage you to sign up for a slot so you can guarantee your spot and so you may choose the approximate arrival time best for you and your family. Of course if it is best for you to walk-in, we will do our best to serve all who show up. We can’t wait to create with you!

All are welcome! $10 suggested donation per artwork created.

Saturday February 7 & 21 from 10AM – 2PM

In the FlexSpace – the Blue Door at 32-30 E. Quincy St in Riverside.

This project is for ages 5 - 105. Art is for everyone.

Then SAVE THE DATE for an artists reception (that’s YOU!) on Friday, March 13, 2026, 5:00 - 7:00 pm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to register ahead of time?
Registering in advance guarantees you space at your preferred time, and helps us plan for how many people to expect. But we are happy to welcome you at the door if there is space! We've divided the day into one-hour sign-up slots starting at 10AM. When you register, let us know your preferred time, how many people are in your party, and how many canvases you'd like to work on. If you are unable to register in advance, no worries. Please walk in on the day of and we will do our best to get you and your group in!

What does it cost?
Minimum of $10 per each artwork your group makes to cover supplies. If you have a group of 3 and you want to collaborate on one canvas that will be $10 to cover supplies. If you each want to create you own artwork, and there are 3 of you in your group, that will be $10 per canvas or $30 total. You may also choose to make an additional donation which we welcome to help cover the salaries for our teaching artists. Riverside Arts Center is a not-for-profit organization. Thank you for your support!

What age is best for this project?
We welcome creative makers of all ages: kids 5+, pre-teens, and teenagers as well as adults and seniors of any age. This project is appropriate for a variety of experience levels. Pieces can be simple or more complex and detailed if you choose. Your group can work collaboratively on one canvas, or create individually on different canvases. We'll be there to guide you toward making a work of art you’ll be proud to display! Our teachers are excited to meet you and explore your ideas.

Did I hear these artworks can be displayed?
Art pieces created during Creativity Fest will be included (if you choose) in a community exhibit at Riverside Town Hall. Stop by Town Hall to see them March - May 2026. After the exhibition closes you may stop by Riverside Arts Center to pick up your artwork to take home.

Why will this be exhibited at Town Hall ?
Riverside Town Hall exhibitions feature work by area artists, celebrating the exchange of support and generosity between the community of Riverside and the Riverside Arts Center. Please join us for a celebration of the artists and art during a reception on Friday, March 13, 2026, 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served at the Riverside Arts Center, a short block around the corner from the Town Hall. Creativity Fest will be on view at 27 Riverside Road from March - May 2026.

RAC's MISSION:
The Riverside Arts Center strives to be the epicenter for contemporary art in the near-west suburbs of Chicago. Through exhibitions, education, artist studios, and public events, the RAC is an advocate for the vital role the arts play in nurturing community and amplifying diverse experiences, ideas, and backgrounds.