Back December 17, 2019
Travel Blog

Celebrate Art on the Rock Falls Sculpture Walk

Come explore art in Rock Falls, IL and see what you’ll discover.

See the world through an artist’s eye on the banks of the Rock River. The Rock Falls Sculpture Walk is a permanent fixture in the park. It showcases ten sculptures from artists both locally, regionally, and around the country.

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It all started with an idea

The idea started when artist Charles Yost of Chicago presented to the Rock Falls tourism committee the idea of bringing something unique on the Rock Falls riverfront. The “Sculpture Walk” was born. This public art exhibition is located at the RB&W Park and features Illinois artists’ work that complements an outdoor public space along the banks of the Rock River. The Art in the Park event in 2018 was created to draw attention to the Sculpture Walk and was met with great success. It brought a new look using art, culture, and color to the developing riverfront park. 

The outdoor sculptures are on display for one year on pedestals along with a plaque containing the artist’s name and title of the sculpture. Some of the names of the current sculptures are “Flight Path Up,” “Atomic Slender,” “Mercury,” “Can’t Keep a Good Man Down,” and “Nemesis.” By beautifying the riverfront and giving locals and tourists new ways to enjoy the city, Rock Falls is a great weekend or day trip in northwest Illinois.

Every year the submission process begins again

Each year there is a new submission process and another set of sculptures is voted on through a closed jury selection.

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A new annual art event is born

The yearly kick-off event for the changing of the sculptures is known as Art in the Park. It features an outdoor art gallery full of drawings, paintings, sketches, photography, and other fine art from local and regional artists. There is also live music, interactive displays, food, beer and wine for sale. The artists (sculptors) are on-site to discuss their art and the inspiration behind it.

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There’s an app for that

In 2019, they included an audio app designed specifically for art enthusiasts. The Otocast application for smartphones includes recorded audio from the sculptors themselves. Art enthusiasts visiting the park can download the app and learn more about the artists, their work, and the sculptures themselves.

Contact Information

Rock Falls Chamber of Commerce: WEBSITE | Facebook | Instagram
Rock Falls Tourism (Visit Rock Falls): WEBSITE | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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On Apr. 3-4, The WhitePinesLodge (@whitepines_resort) presents Dave Karl & Wendy T as they bring the iconic Kenny & Dolly "Real Love" tour back to life, with all the hits & onstage magic you remember.  Plus, enjoy a delicious buffet, dessert, and coffee/tea included in your ticket! 🎵🎵🎵

Info at link in bio, under EVENTS!
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Tom Malone, a trombonist, multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and producer, is among the most experienced professionals in the business. Tom is best known for his work with The Blues Brothers, The David Letterman Show, and Saturday Night Live.

Lou Marini’s seven-year association as an original SNL band member led to his role as “Blue Lou” in John Belushi and Dan Akroyd’s cult classic movie, “The Blues Brothers.”
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗜𝗥𝗖𝗨𝗦 🎪 (@cirque_luzdalia to be exact) is coming to the new @DixonParkDistrict facility on April 2-3, two shows each day featuring magicians, jugglers, acrobats, comedians, and NO animals! Ticket link in the event listing at link in our bio, under EVENTS.
Back by popular demand, Dancing Queen: An #ABBA Salute, Mar. 21-22. You get LUNCH & a SHOW at @WhitePines_Resort!  Call 815-655-2400 for reservations.

Matinee Shows:
Thursday, March 21, 2024
Friday, March 22, 2024
Matinee Seating Begins: 11:20 am

Tickets:
Platinum Seating – $72.00 (comes with a free cocktail)
Gold Seating – $65.00
Silver Seating – $62.00
Price Includes: Buffet, Coffee, Tea, Show, Dessert, Tax and Gratuity
Join us for #DougLofstrom & the New Quartet, performing world music & jazz at "Music at the Museum"  on March 22 at the #SavannaMuseum in #SavannaIL!  Enjoy unique arrangements of traditional pieces, light refreshments, and a casual cabaret atmosphere. Info at link in bio under EVENTS.

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