Robinson, who creates 3-D paper
art and illustrations influenced by Japanese Manga-style comics, has
since exhibited her work at several local shows and galleries. She also
is finding that her classes in Manga and Anime, a similar style used for
Japanese animation, are in growing demand.
The artist gives credit for her success to the Community Arts Council of Kankakee County, which presents the Art Stroll.
"Community Arts Council is made
up of a collective group of people which helps give art a voice in our
community. Every member is dedicated to seeing art blossom in the
Kankakee area by offering events that give the public a chance to see
local artists and view their work," Robinson said.
CAC will bring artists together
again when it presents the Fall Art Stroll 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday in
conjunction with the Kankakee Event Partnership. The Kankakee County
Convention and Visitors Bureau is a sponsor this year.
Dozens of fine arts and crafts
artisans, including Robinson, will transform Kankakee's historic Depot
Park at 199 S. East Ave., into an art Mecca that also will feature good
food and plenty of entertainment.
Added to the festivities will be
the Kankakee Train Museum's annual Railfest with tours of a Pullman car,
caboose and the Kankakee Trolley. Information on the history of the
Pullman Company, and the community it built for workers in Chicago, will
be included this year. The authentic 1880s push handcart and three
model train exhibits also will on display.
The park, with its eye-catching
fountain and quaintly restored Depot building, will offer many other
attractions. Handmade arts and crafts will range from a variety of
paintings, photography, pottery, wood and painted glass creations to
custom jewelry, crocheted items, needlework, a display of quilts,
concrete leaves and hand-painted porcelain. A special area will be
designated for "emerging" artists who have just started exhibiting their
work. Artwork will be displayed inside the Depot, along the park's
flower-lined walks and in the nearby Clock Tower building.
Janice Miller, president of CAC, is looking forward to this year's Art Walk.
"This event has been held every
year since about 1975, although it has changed focus and location
several times in the past 10 years. This year the focus is on fine art.
It is so good to see the various forms of art all in the beautiful
setting of the Depot and its grounds.
"The community enjoys this event,
too. Last year it rained the whole day, but people put up their
umbrellas and came anyway. The artists were pleased with the support
they received and the amount of art they sold. I look forward to seeing
everyone again this year," she said.
There also will be
demonstrations. Participants of Robinson's American Manga Group will be
creating caricatures for interested guests and a chain saw woodcarver
will be showing his craft. In addition, there will be a huge used book
sale held by the Friends of the Kankakee Public Library.
Children will have their own area
for activities. Included will be several games, face painting and a
chance for youngsters to create their own chalk art masterpieces on the
park's sidewalks.
Entertainment will feature
vocalists, choral and gospel groups, instrumentalists, dancers, skits
and novelty acts performing in front of the depot and on its back
platform.
Admittance is free and there's plenty of parking.
For more information on the stroll or to participate as a vendor, call 815-933-ARTS or log onto www.communityartscouncil.org.
