Exhibitions at the UIS Visual Arts Gallery offer an accessible entry point into the exciting field of contemporary art. The gallery is an inclusive space and welcomes everyone to discover and enjoy the latest in art today. All events are free and open to the public.
Celebrate Our 50th Anniversary with us at our annual UIS Visual Arts Gallery Silent Auction and Benefit
The University of Illinois Springfield Visual Arts Gallery is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary with its annual silent auction and benefit. This annual fundraising event features a diverse collection of original art, reproductions, decorative objects and crafts donated by artists and community supporters. This year’s auction will be held both online and in person, making it easy for collectors and supporters across the region to take part.
The auction will be live starting November 10th, with bidding available through 7 p.m. on December 4th. The auction can be found online at the link listed below:
Auction items will be on display at the UIS Visual Arts Gallery from December 1st through 4th for in-person viewing. A final bidding reception will take place at the gallery from 5:30 to 7 p.m. December 4th. All bids must be placed through the auction website.
This year marks a major milestone for the Visual Arts Gallery, established in 1975 and a cornerstone of contemporary art in Springfield for five decades. Since moving to its current location in the Health and Sciences Building in 1992, the gallery has continued to present ambitious exhibitions by emerging and established artists while providing opportunities for UIS students to engage directly with professional art practice.
As the gallery prepares for an exciting move to a new space at UIS, community participation in the silent auction is more important than ever. Proceeds directly support gallery programming, visiting artists and student exhibitions.
“This milestone is both a celebration and a moment of transition,” said Allison Lacher, director of the UIS Visual Arts Gallery. “As we look toward our move into a new space, engaging in the auction is the best way for our community to support the gallery’s future. Every bid directly sustains the artists, exhibitions and student opportunities that make our work possible.”
Lastly, we would like to acknowledge our media sponsor, NPR Illinois, and congratulate them on their 50th anniversary in conjunction with our own.