University of St. Francis Art Gallery - Joliet

(Photos provided)

Destination: If you’re looking for a spring drive, the University of St. Francis Art Gallery opened its newest exhibition, the 2021 Senior Thesis Exhibition, on April 30. 

Masses are not offered at the gallery. 

Photos: Top -- Works of Amber Darak and Jamie Stolfo are part of the exhibit.
Below -- Austin Hines’ work is part of the 

senior show.

Why to go: The exhibition features the work of six graduating seniors from the USF Department of Fine Arts, including: Amber Darak, photography; Austin Hines, studio art; Jamie Stolfo, studio art; Lauren Tuider, graphic design; Maria Cruz Uceda, graphic design; and Odessa Villarreal, studio art and graphic design. 

“Working across a variety of media, these artists explore themes unique to each of them,” said Jennifer Moore, USF Art Gallery Director and Collection Manager. “As the culmination of their journey at the University of St. Francis, this exhibit not only reflects the skills gained from their time as students, but also their personal growth as artists.”

Hours: The exhibition will be on display at the USF Art Gallery through July 30, and is open to the public. Current gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. 

Accessibility: The museum is accessible to the handicapped and there is street parking in front of the building.

(Grand) Kid friendly: All ages are welcome. 

Info: Address — University of St. Francis Art Gallery, 25 E. Van Buren St., Joliet, IL 60432
Phone — 815-740-3787
Website — facebook.com/theuniversityofstfrancisartgallery or https://www.stfrancis.edu/artgallery/

— Sharon Boehlefeld compiled this story

Send Destinations ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org

‘Voices of Vatican II’ University of St. Francis - Joliet, Illinois

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Destination: The University of St. Francis will commemorate 50 years of Vatican II with programs in art, lecture and music with the theme “Celebrating a Pilgrim People: The Voices of Vatican II.” The celebration will include an exhibit, “The World of Vatican II: An Artist’s Report,” by Franklin McMahon.
The image (left) is his “Vatican Council Procession.”
Why to go:  “The World of Vatican II: An Artist’s Report” by Franklin McMahon features the works of the artist-reporter from Lake Forest, who worked worldwide recording religious, cultural, and political events. His paintings and drawings have graced the covers of Chicago Tribune Magazine, and the pages of Life, Look, Jubilee, U.S. Catholic and Commonweal magazines. Highly recognized for his contributions to art and journalism, McMahon received three Emmys, a Peabody Award for Excellence in Broadcasting and the Renaissance Prize from the Art Institute of Chicago. He is collected by the Chicago History Museum, Library of Congress, NASA and Lake County Discovery Museum.
McMahon was in Rome for opening day and all subsequent major events of the Second Vatican Council between 1962 and 1965 – producing a book “This Church These Times: The Roman Catholic Church since Vatican II,” and an award-winning film documentary, “The World of Vatican II, An Artist’s Report.”
McMahon’s works will be on display from Sept. 15 through Oct. 12, 2014, at the university’s art gallery at the Rialto, 5 Van Buren St. in downtown Joliet.
Special events: On Sept. 25, 2014, at 7 p.m., McMahon’s works will be discussed by his son, Mark McMahon and the curator for the artist, Kathleen Van Ella. The presentation will be at the university’s St. Bonaventure Hall (former Mode building), 16 Van Buren St., downtown Joliet. After the presentation, there will be a short walk to the gallery to view the exhibit with a reception. It is one of several Vatican II presentations that will be part of the 50 year anniversary event.
Admission: Hours vary. Special showings can also be arranged by calling call 815-740-3367.
(Grand) Kid friendly: Sure, kids can appreciate art. They might also enjoy a visit to the campus. Plan that stop at www.stfrancis.edu.
Info: Address: Rialto, 5 Van Buren St., Joliet, IL 60432 Phone: 815/740-3367. Web: www.stfrancis.edu (type City Center Gallery in the search box for more information)

- Compiled by Sharon Boehlefeld
Send your Catholic destinations ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org