For the second year the public can watch gifted artists create art before their eyes at Art For Art’s Sake, an event to support The Next Picture Show, a non-profit fine arts community center serving the Rock River Valley.

When & Where?
The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at Ken Nelson Auto Plaza, 1000 N. Galena Ave, in Dixon.  The public will be able to watch some 40 artists finish their pieces, which will be auctioned off beginning at 8 p.m. All proceeds will benefit The Next Picture Show.

“This event was a great success last year, so we thought we’d bring it back to the community. People loved watching the artists in action. The variety of styles and the depth of talent were amazing,” said Debbie Thompson, gallery board president and chairperson of the event, along with Jayne Rose. Both Thompson and Rose will be painting at the event.

“The Next Picture Show is continuing to grow and offer even more opportunities for artists, musicians, writers and anyone interested in the arts. From our expanded music program for children to our recent hosting of the Illinois Watercolor Society Show, our activities are an ongoing efforts to bring fine arts to people of all ages and backgrounds through exhibits, classes and special events. The proceeds from Art For Arts Sake support these efforts,” Thompson said.

This year’s casual event features many artists who participated last year, as well as some new faces, said Bonnie Kime, executive director of The Next Picture Show.

“A lot of local favorites will be painting for this event, so there will be many recognizable names. It’s not every day you can get a glimpse at their creative process,” Kime said, adding that the gallery is pleased with the number of artists who have volunteered to participate, as well as sponsorships from local businesses.

The evening will include live music by Flying Fish (Todd Lorenc and Jeff Kagay), heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and soft drinks.

Ticket Information
Tickets are $35 per person, and are available at:

• The Next Picture Show, 113 W. First St.
• The Dixon Chamber of Commerce, 101 W. Second St., Suite 301; and
• the Dixon Welcome Center, 106 W. River St.