Illinois is home to classic toys such as Radio Flyer, Lincoln Logs and Tinker Toys. These, like all toys, serve as templates for the imagination for children at both social and cognitive levels of development. For adults, toys are vessels for memory that contain identity, activity and comfort. For many working artists today, a toy represents a creative opportunity to transform the object into an experience that transcends nostalgia and represents an act of discovery. The artwork featured in this exhibition comes directly from artists working across Illinois. The historic objects presented are highlights from the Illinois State Museum collections. Combined, they seek to merge the joyous occasion of imagination during play with the nurtured discipline of creating a work of art.

This exhibit is among many ongoing programs at North Central College to enrich and broaden the cultural and academic outlook for the College and community. North Central offers a variety of venues accommodating a rich range of local and world-class events, performances and space needs for the public. For a comprehensive schedule of musical performances, theatrical and dance productions, art exhibits and more, visit northcentralcollege.edu/show or call the box office at 630-637-SHOW (7469).