Sculpture Walk Peoria, now in its fifth year, launches its annual outdoor sculpture exhibit on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. The free Opening Day Celebration begins with a ribbon cutting at 9am on the Sun Plaza, followed by opportunities to meet the artists behind nine new sculptures along Washington Street.

This year’s celebration is sponsored by the Kottemann family, longtime champions for the arts in central Illinois. “Supporting Sculpture Walk Peoria is a natural extension of our family’s lifelong commitment to the arts community in Peoria,” says Kathy Kottemann Wire. “Our parents, George and Norma, believed in the importance of public art and contributed to several permanent public sculptures in Peoria, and we have donated Isamu Noguchi’s Pylon, which will be installed on the museum’s campus in time for Opening Day.” Members of the Kottemann family will take part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, along with visiting guest artists and civic dignitaries. 

“This year’s event is designed to have a festival feel and truly kick off the summer arts season in Peoria,” adds Lynette Steger, Sculpture Walk Peoria chair. “We are excited to partner with over 15 local arts groups who will be offering on-site activities to help build awareness about their summer classes, camps and programs. The event also coincides with the opening of the Riverfront Market, giving the public one more reason to enjoy a full morning of art and culture in downtown Peoria.” 

Interactive art activities and live musical performances will be ongoing at the Sun Plaza, while the Peoria Riverfront Museum will offer free general admission to any Sculpture Walk Peoria attendee on the day of the event. Learn more about Opening Day and this year’s lineup of sculptures at artspartners.net/swp. PM