KIN: someone or something of the same or similar kind.
March 2nd – April 5th, 2012
Opening Reception: Friday, March 2nd from 6:30 – 9:00pm
Our kin is a web of social relationships – our clan, our tribe, our people. As we have evolved through time, the desire for family becomes centered less on the nexus of blood relations, and has shifted to shared cultural interests as a base for social identity. This March, The Art Center of Highland Park presents an exhibition of photographic work depicting groups of kindred souls, whose basis of kinship seeks to broaden the very definition of the word. Focusing largely on youth culture, KIN explores some of the ties that bind us: family, neighborhood, sport and music. Join us Friday, March 2nd from 6:30 – 9:00pm for the opening reception of KIN: someone of something of the same or similar kind, curated by Jason Robinette.

Leasha Overturf, "The Hickey," 1996
Arts of Nepal
March 2nd – April 5th, 2012
Opening Reception: Friday, March 2nd from 6:30 – 9:00pm
An exhibition featuring Nepali artists living both locally and abroad, working in both contemporary and traditional styles. The show will exhibit the work of artists ranging in age and medium, but all conveying the dichotomy between national and individual identity. The Art Center of Highland Park partners with curator Kiran Byanjankar and ArtsofNepal.com to present this exhibition. Join us for the opening evening reception, which will feature authentic Nepali food and music.

Manish lal Shrestha, "Arya Maun," acrylic on canvas, 2008
Thursday, March 15th from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Join us at The Art Center of Highland Park for a special trunk show of work by Israeli jewelry and textile artist, Leora Gal. Additionally, come to enjoy refreshments and a private viewing of TAC’s March Exhibitions.

The 24th Annual CSL Student Art Exhibition
April 13th – 21st, 2012
Opening Reception: Friday, April 13th from 6:00 – 8:00pm
The Central Suburban League (CSL) Student Art Exhibtion seeks to unify the CSL schools through the visual arts. Deerfield, Evanston, Glenbrook North, Glenbrook South, Highland Park, Maine East, Maine South, Maine West, New Trier, Niles North, Niles West and Waukegan High Schools participate.

Enjoy performances by Red Moon Theater, delicious food by Catered by Design, specialty drinks from Vibe at 1935, a fabulous raffle with amazing prizes, a silent auction of incredible custom art pieces, an exhibition of “Objets Extraordinaire” curated by Jean Albano Gallery, and so much more! The evening will be celebrating our two honorees, Rhoda Pierce of the Illinois Arts Council, and Cheryl Steiger, TAC artist and teacher for over 20 years. Stay tuned for more information on TAC’s annual spring gala, CIRQUE DU ART!
Objets Extraordinaire
April 27th – June 2nd, 2012
Opening Reception: Friday, May 11th from 6:30 – 9:00pm
A presentation of “objets d’arte” including paintings, sculptures, and constructions that celebrate glamour, excitement and festivity. The exhibition will feature work of many well established artists and several younger artists who have shown innovative talent and creativity. Curated by Jean Albano Gallery.
Kathy Weaver: The Robot’s World
Mixed Media and Drawings
June 8th – July 14th, 2012
Opening Reception: Friday, June 8th from 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Kathy Weaver – artist, educator, and Highland Park resident – exhibits her version of the future. Robots and cyborgs in textiles, paint, papier mache and bronze portray Weaver’s fantastically imaginary world.

Kathy Weaver, "Cyborg Female 5" (detail), 2004
The Highland Park Festival of Fine Craft is a two-day outdoor celebration of the visual arts.
This coming year, we are very excited to have Amdur Productions take over the production of our Festival of Fine Craft, bringing expertise and excellence in the field to our beloved event. For more information on how to apply to the 2012 Festival of Fine Craft, visit http://amdurproductions.com/art-festivals/Festival_of_Fine_Crafts.html
The Highland Park Festival of Fine Craft benefits The Art Center, a non-profit school and gallery with a year round commitment to presenting the best in contemporary art and craft. The Art Center is an advocate for artists and builds appreciation through its educational and exhibition programs.
