LISA NELSON RAABE
“The Old and The New: Defining Peoria History in New Ways” was the 60th Rennick Art Exhibition sponsored by the Peoria Historical Society (May 2-31) at Riverfront Museum. Each year, the Historical Society hosts an exhibition of artworks that tell Peoria stories. This year, 67 pieces were submitted by 42 artists. A two-judge panel selected five works and the Society awarded a total of $1,100 in prize money, plus a People’s Choice Award for $100. The exhibit at the museum provided a look into local architecture, our parks, and people in contemporary and historical contexts.
The Connie Andrews painting ‘Bringing him to life’ depicts iconic Peoria artist Preston Jackson creating his sculpture of Richard Pryor.
CRAIG STOCKS
The show has grown from purely historical references to descriptions of relationships and interactions, both personal and professional. Each year, artists offer realistic, symbolic, and abstract glimpses as varied as plein air painting and images from the vaudeville years.
This year’s top prize winners were Connie Andrews for her painting of Preston Jackson working on his Richard Pryor sculpture, a beautiful sunrise view of the Murray-Baker Bridge by John Parks, Coleman Mattingly’s spiral staircase outside an Ameren building, the painting of the no-longer extant Nutrena Feeds building by Ramona Gibbs, and Jeremy Berkeley’s graphic depiction of the 1980s term “Peoria Corn Chips.”
The Peoria Historical Society was incorporated in 1934, but its roots can be traced as far back as 1839. Established to enhance the quality of life in the Peoria area, the Society focuses on “collecting, preserving, and displaying items relating to our history; encouraging and supporting historical research and education; and promoting and sustaining public interest in the history and contributions of our people and organizations.”
In addition to the Rennick exhibition, upcoming PHS exhibits include “Peoria Pottery” at Wheels O’ Time Museum (May 1-Oct. 31),
“Through a Feminine Lens: Female Artists and their Visions of Peoria” at Foster Gallery at First United Methodist Church (July 1-26), “Playing in Peoria: The Golden Age of Theater in Central Illinois” at Peoria Public Library Main Library (July 1-Aug. 31), and “Memories of Monson, Memories of Globe: Mapping What Was Lost in Peoria’s Southtown” (anticipated fall 2024).
The Peoria Historical Society displayed its 60th Rennick Art Exhibition at Peoria Riverfront Museum.
LISA NELSON RAABE
Examples from the collection are also shared through display cases and special exhibitions, and PHS offers glimpses into Peoria history through tours and events. Last year’s schedule of history bus and walking tours continues and will include Flanagan and Pettengill-Morron houses, Springdale Cemetery, Peoria bicycle history, and mid-century modern architecture as well as the beautifully decorated Holiday Home Tour. There is an extensive list on the PHS website.
Through its relationships with valued community partners like Wheels O’ Time Museum, Peoria Public Library, Springdale Cemetery, Bradley University, Peoria Women’s Club, Peoria Riverfront Museum, Fine Arts Society of Peoria, and Central Illinois Landmarks Foundation, Peoria Historical Society is gathering and safeguarding the stories of a community — those lost as well as newly found. PHS chronicles the experience of community through the lives and connections that create the history of our place.
More information about the Peoria Historical Society, its many aspects and opportunities, can be found at www.peoriahistoricalsociety.com