Arts in Action
Arts in Action is a project developed by the DeKalb County History Center and the Ellwood House Museum to investigate the history of race relations in DeKalb County through historical research and a collaboration with contemporary artists.
The initiative continues in 2024 with a new exhibit focusing on Latino experiences in Northern Illinois, sponsored by Healing Illinois. Nine artists have been selected, and their work will be displayed at the Ellwood House Museum Visitor Center alongside historical research in the themes of fear, exclusion, community, and hope.
An opening reception will be held on Saturday, June 29 from 6-9pm, and the exhibit will remain on display through December 30, 2024.
See all the artwork and research since 2020 by clicking “Enter Here.”
In April 2023, the Illinois Association of Museums awarded the DeKalb County History Center and Ellwood House Museum an Award for Superior Achievement for our project “Arts in Action.” Arts in Action is an initial step in our commitment to shifting the local history narrative from a predominantly white experience to a more inclusive and accurate account that includes the wide range of DeKalb County residents’ lives and experiences. Arts in Action is continuously evolving as more stories are researched and lived and we continue to recognize gaps in exhibits and collections, share the untold stories in our communities, and create new ways of looking at the future through art, exhibits, and increased commitment and access within DeKalb County.