A growing movement hopes to foster a stronger art scene in Peoria. This print story and video extra detail the work of artist Jessica Ball, who is trying to make art accessible to every Peorian.
Peoria Art Garage Engages Community
Jessica Ball grew up learning that art was supposed to be a hobby. Now it’s her career.
Ball owns the Art Garage Studio and Gallery at 712 West Main. For the past three years she’s been teaching art classes there to people of all walks of life—from toddlers to ladies nights to retirees. They also offer drop-in art hours, where people can stop in and complete a project in under an hour, with no experience required.
“It’s a big melting pot around here. Art is the driving force, diversity is the driving force, accessibility is the driving force. It’s for everyone to experience and enjoy,” said Ball.
The Art Garage also hosts a different local artist each month, displaying their work around the gallery. This month’s featured artist is Fanni, who says its been an interesting month for her.
“It’s very awkward because I’m not used to this community. It’s very enlightening to see the different people who come into see the art and ask about it. Since I’m not from here and not a lot of people know me or my work, I’m getting a lot of new comments,” said Fanni.
Fanni is also a student at Bradley University and works at the Art Garage once a week, helping do set up for projects and interact with clients.
Ball said she didn’t feel like her community encouraged or appreciated art when she was growing up, and she’s thankful she got to foster a space where her daughter can grow up being exposed to art and professional artists. Ball’s daughter, Olivia, is 8 years old and likes to hang out at the Art Garage sometimes to do homework or make projects.
“She’s been able to socialize with our customers and clients but also the artists that come through here or work here. She’s met actors and writers—just a real diverse group of people. And not just because of us at the Art Garage but because we’re in a community that draws in those people,” she said.
Olivia says she likes to hang out at the Art Garage and hanging out with people the people who come there, even though they are mostly older than her. She’s made friends with an actress named Liz.
Thanks to this kind of influence, Olivia says she wants to grow up and be an artist like her mom.
“When you have an environment that supports creativity and diversity and culture, you’re going to get people that are diverse and cultural,” Ball said.
Peoria Art Garage Makes Art Accessible to Everyone
This video extra includes interviews with Jessica Ball and the Art Garage’s featured artist Fanni, who talk about the importance a strong art scene can have on a community.