Delavan’s history is filled with more than just circuses and temperance rallies. It was also home to an art colony near the end of the 19th Century. During this period students would come into Delavan from the Chicago Art Institute for more art training. Some of the artists made their homes here but only for about 15 years.
“Adolph Schulz did not like cows in his paintings,” said Terri Yanke, a Friends of the Library representative. Apparently, farmers were moving into the area with their grazing creatures. The artists moved down to Nashville, Indiana but left a lot of their paintings, which are now on display at Aram Public Library.
Today these painters are gone but art has not left the city. To demonstrate the importance art and culture play in this area, the Delavan/Darien Rotary Club is hosting its first Artisan Festival at Congdon Garden, 1420 Hobbs Drive, Delavan on Saturday, September 24 from 10 AM to 2 PM. Funds raised will go toward Arts Scholarships for high school graduates. The festival will feature an eclectic assortment of artists, crafters, vendors, food-artistisan, authors and performers.
“Covid took a toll on many artists of all genres,” said Carol L. Paur, Artisan Festival Chair. “We are hoping this festival will help artists showcase their works while meeting their fans. We’re also excited to see how we can help promote the arts in this area.” There will be activities for children, performers, and food trucks. For more information, contact Paur at storiesaua@gmail.com.
