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McLean County Arts Center

601 North East Street

Bloomington, IL 61701

McLean County Arts Center

309-829-0011

We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.

History:

In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.

A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.

After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.

Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.

The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.

Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales & Rental Gift Gallery.

As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.

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AARP Events for Bloomington

AARP Events for Bloomington

• Featured Event

  Free Screening of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

  Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT

  Peoria Riverfront Museum

  Peoria, IL

• Featured Event

  A Virtual Evening: The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago presents The Nutcracker

  Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. CT

  AARP IL Facebook & YouTube, Links TBA

  Online Event

• Featured Event

  Social Security "Understanding Your Benefits"

  Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. CT

  Pekin Public Library

  Pekin, IL

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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
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												<span>61701</span>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
											<div>
							<span>Bloomington</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>61701</span>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-a-virtual-evening-with-the-joffrey-ballet-of-chicago-presenting-the-nutcracker-121024-virtual-slnn3mnpbzc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-EVENING-THE-JOFFREY-BALLET-OF-CHICAGO-PRESENTS-THE-NUTCRACKER">A Virtual Evening: The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago presents The Nutcracker</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-social-security-understanding-your-benefits-121224-in-person-mynpvbxcxnk.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SOCIAL-SECURITY-UNDERSTANDING-YOUR-BENEFITS">Social Security "Understanding Your Benefits"</a></h2>
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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
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												<span>61701</span>
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										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
											<div>
							<span>Bloomington</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>61701</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">McLean County Arts Center</h1></header>

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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>61701</span>
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										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
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												<span>61701</span>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>61701</span>
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								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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					<p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Peoria Riverfront Museum</p>
					<p class="loc">Peoria, IL</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-social-security-understanding-your-benefits-121224-in-person-mynpvbxcxnk.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SOCIAL-SECURITY-UNDERSTANDING-YOUR-BENEFITS">Social Security "Understanding Your Benefits"</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Pekin Public Library</p>
					<p class="loc">Pekin, IL</p>
					
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			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
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											<div>601 North East Street</div>
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							<span>Bloomington</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>61701</span>
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										<a href="http://www.mcac.org/" target="_blank">McLean County Arts Center</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-829-0011</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>We encourage and promote the appreciation, study, cultivation, development, and practice of the Arts in McLean County.</p>
<p>History:</p>
<p>In 1870, Mrs. Horace Smith established a studio and gathered a class of students in oil painting. In 1888, one of her students and three other members of the Bloomington Sketch Club were appointed to organize the Bloomington Art Association. Minutes of this organization were recorded through March, 1892. Following this period, a division of the Women's Club maintained community interest in art.</p>
<p>A group of enthusiasts rejuvenated the Bloomington Art Association in 1922. The Charter was issued on April 6, 1922. Their purpose was: "To cultivate an appreciation of art in all of its branches, and to encourage civic improvements." The Russell Gallery in Withers Library housed the Art Association exhibits from 1922 until 1976.</p>
<p>After the roof collapsed in Withers Library, the McLean County Arts Center began operating at 210 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. In addition to the exhibition schedule, art classes for adults and children and the Sales and Rental Gallery were added to the Arts Center programming.</p>
<p>Facing the demolition of the rental building, the Art Association Board of Directors began looking for a permanent home. In the summer of 1979, the Arts Center moved to its present location. Purchase and renovation of the building at 601 N. East Street was made possible by pledges from the community. Having taken over the agency functions of the McLean County Arts Council, the Arts Center was now facilitating space, scheduling, and programming for all of the county's arts organizations.</p>
<p>The Town of Normal granted official agency designation in 1991, and by the City of Bloomington, as well as McLean County in 1992.</p>
<p>Currently the Arts Center presents approximately twelve exhibitions yearly, including the annual Holiday Treasures exhibition and the annual Amateur Competition and Exhibition which for over 70 years has showcased the best amateur artists from the region. The Center also offers art classes, artist lectures, art workshops for children and adults and associated performing and literary arts presentations. The community is also offered opportunities to purchase or rent artwork through the Center's Sales &amp; Rental Gift Gallery.</p>
<p>As the newly approved downtown Bloomington Cultural District takes shape, the McLean County Arts Center will be a central participant.</p>		</div>
		

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										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-mfg-peoria-beetlejuice-beetlejuice-121024-in-person-g6n24cwbyx6.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FREE-SCREENING-OF-BEETLEJUICE-BEETLEJUICE">Free Screening of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Peoria Riverfront Museum</p>
					<p class="loc">Peoria, IL</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-a-virtual-evening-with-the-joffrey-ballet-of-chicago-presenting-the-nutcracker-121024-virtual-slnn3mnpbzc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-EVENING-THE-JOFFREY-BALLET-OF-CHICAGO-PRESENTS-THE-NUTCRACKER">A Virtual Evening: The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago presents The Nutcracker</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook & YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-il-social-security-understanding-your-benefits-121224-in-person-mynpvbxcxnk.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-SOCIAL-SECURITY-UNDERSTANDING-YOUR-BENEFITS">Social Security "Understanding Your Benefits"</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 at 11:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Pekin Public Library</p>
					<p class="loc">Pekin, IL</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/bloomington-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
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include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118