Edwardsville Arts Center’s first exhibit at 246 North Main; celebrating Route 66 Centennial
The Edwardsville Arts Center recently announced the opening of its first exhibition in a new gallery space at 246 North Main Street, marking an exciting step forward while plans continue for its future home.
This inaugural exhibit celebrates the 100th anniversary of U.S. Route 66—the iconic highway that has long symbolized freedom, travel, and the American spirit. Bringing together regional artists working in photography, painting, and mixed media, the exhibition offers a contemporary reflection on the legacy and cultural impact of the “Mother Road.”
The public is invited to attend the opening reception starting at 6 p.m. on June 30, offering an opportunity to meet participating artists and celebrate this milestone moment for the Edwardsville Arts Center.
This exhibition not only honors a historic anniversary but also signals a new chapter for the Edwardsville Arts Center as it expands its presence in the heart of downtown. This gallery will serve as a vibrant hub for exhibitions and community engagement, continuing the organization’s mission to connect people through the arts.
Artists featured in the show explore themes of movement, nostalgia, roadside Americana, and the evolving landscapes that define communities along Route 66. From striking photographic documentation to imaginative reinterpretations in paint and mixed materials, the exhibit captures both the history and enduring influence of this legendary route.
Exhibiting artists include Alumni Players, Gloria Arndt, Jeff Bohnert, John Denhouter, Steve Hartman, Stacey McAdams, Sheri Mertzlufft, Jeff Sass, Richard Schlisinger, Gypsy Star, Kathryn Stullken Biarkis.
The Edwardsville Arts Center further gratefully acknowledged the support and collaboration of the City of Edwardsville, Enjoy Illinois, and the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau in helping make this new gallery space possible in its official announcement, noting, “Their partnership and commitment to supporting arts, culture, and community development have been instrumental in bringing this opportunity to life.”
Image provided by Edwardsville Arts Center.
About the Edwardsville Arts Center
The Edwardsville Arts Center (EAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community visual arts venue committed to inspiring and nourishing the creative spirit through art classes, exhibits, and public programming. EAC serves as a hub for local artists, students, and art enthusiasts in the metro east region. EAC is supported through donations, grants, sponsorships, and community partnerships.
