Bi-monthly, the library features a different artist or group of artists on the Gallery Wall on the 2nd floor. Please contact the Adult Programming Librarian with questions about this program. Artists interested in displaying their art can submit an Art Display Proposal form.
In the Case
Katie Lagerstrom
What is your connection to Glen Ellyn?
I met Jeanine at the Brookfield Art Walk. I love Glen Ellyn! It has a great theater, a great yarn store, and I have taken classes at College of DuPage
What is the title or theme of the collection?
Soda Fired Ceramics
Briefly describe the collection.
These are functional objects that have been fired in the soda kiln at Lillstreet Center.
What was your inspiration for the collection?
I’m always looking for different ways to bring interest to the surface of my work, as well as the form. I love nature, especially birds, and you will see portraits of my parakeets, as well as some of the birds at Springbrook Nature Center on some of my pieces.
What type of media is used in the collection?
Porcelain and stoneware. Glaze.
Do you work with other types of media?
Yes, I also dabble in fiber arts. Knitting, weaving, embroidery, and I’m learning to machine sew garments. You also might find me drawing and making collages.
What inspired you to become an artist?
It just happened! It wasn’t something I decided to do. I take any opportunity I can to learn about art, and try new things.
What is your artistic (or professional) background?
Art has always been my favorite hobby. I was thrilled when I discovered Lillstreet Art Center and started taking classes in the ceramics department. Professionally I am a librarian in the suburbs.
How has art influenced your life?
Art can both connect me to people, or offer an escape! It provides a place for me to focus my energy and create things that are truly “me.” Whenever I travel, I want to find the art museum. It shows me that the are so many interesting things to see and experience.
What do you like most about being an artist?
For one, I love meeting and talking to other artists.
On the Wall
Alex Kujawa
Website
What is your connection to Glen Ellyn?
I happen to live in the area and received a very generous invitation to exhibit my artwork at the Glen Ellyn library.
What is the title or theme of the collection?
The Haunted Garden & the Dark Forest
Briefly describe the collection.
It’s about our spiritual connection with the nature and trees and how terrifying and beautiful it is.
What was your inspiration for the collection?
I find a lot of inspiration in world folklore, Slavic mythology, fairy tales, ghost stories, and just looking at nature. There is something especially fascinating about forests, and old trees. A mystery, magic, an ancient memory.
What type of media is used in the collection?
All my artwork begins as ink drawing on paper, which later sometimes gets scanned into a graphics program where I apply color and textures. The work on display are my original ink drawings and giclée prints.
Do you work with other types of media?
I sometimes work with watercolors and various paint markers. I also enjoy taking photographs of old abandoned structures and buildings which are being taken over by nature.
What inspired you to become an artist?
The inner drive to create art has been within me for as long as I remember. Drawing has always been an outlet for me. It’s a type of meditation, a type of magic. It’s just something I have to do and will continue doing for as long as my body lets me.
What is your artistic (or professional) background?
I am a professional graphic designer and illustrator with a degree in Visual Communications from Judson University.
How did you reach the current point of your career?
Until not so long ago I was working an office job, processing graphics for a company, while creating art in my spare time just for myself to enjoy. After sharing it online and receiving encouragement from others, certain stars have aligned to allow me and to push me towards becoming a full time artist creating art not just for me, but also for others to enjoy.
How has art influenced your life?
Art is a type of magic that always fills me with such joy and wonder. Creating art has always been a very fulfilling experience for me.
What do you like most about being an artist?
It’s really wonderful to be able to tell stories through art and to see how others interpret and enjoy my creations.
What is your main challenge in producing art?
There is never enough time to create everything I want to create.
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