Arts Alive! - April 2005

The concept of a public library is still astounding: read all of the books you want-for free. And it's a concept that's worked beautifully in Peoria for 125 years. But how did this landmark come to be? And what's going on at the library now? As the librarians would encourage, read on.

Features
Silhouette
Spending the day surrounded by beautiful plants? Designing floral shows? It sounds like many people's dream job, and Luthy Botanical Garden Manager Lauren Howell readily admits it's hers.
Controversial artist Andres Serrano has created current work alluding to the grand tradition of studio portraiture, offering imposing, sumptuously lit portraits of a broad spectrum of Americans.
Pen & Ink
It's through art, I've learned, that we can best express our feelings. Through tragedy, heartache, and pain, the most beautiful works of art are created.
Also in this Issue...
Arts Alive! Arts Calendar
Check out central Illinois' latest artistic offerings. Sponsored by Caterpillar.