Explore Art in Downtown: West Chicago’s America 250 Summer Art Banner Exhibit

Discover creativity in full color as the City of West Chicago presents the 2026 Summer Art Banner Exhibit, a vibrant outdoor gallery featuring 26 original works by talented regional artists. Organized annually by the West Chicago Cultural Arts Commission, the exhibit transforms Main Street and Turner Court into an open-air celebration of art and community.

This year’s theme, “Red, White, Blue / Rojo, Blanco, Azul,” reflects a festive and meaningful tribute to America 250, with each banner offering a unique artistic interpretation of the theme. The 2026 exhibit marks a particularly exciting year, receiving more than 90 submissions from artists across the region. The City extends its sincere appreciation to all who participated.

Artwork for this year’s exhibit was juried by Nick Caltagirone, a social studies educator at West Chicago Community High School. Caltagirone teaches AP World History, World Studies, U.S. History, and Philosophy, and integrates Art History into all of his courses. He also leads annual student visits to the Art Institute of Chicago. He holds degrees in history and philosophy from Northern Illinois University and in education from Benedictine University.

The exhibit will be on display from May through the last week of August, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the arts throughout the spring and summer seasons. In addition to viewing the banners, the public is encouraged to vote for their favorite piece as part of the 2026 People’s Choice Award.

For more information, including an interactive map and instructions on how to vote, visit westchicago.org/artbannerexhibit.

View official City item ↗