May 28, 2024 -The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is hosting a cicada-themed art show during the Illinois State Fair and is inviting residents to submit their entries.
Illinois is experiencing a rare double cicada brood emergence this summer, and IDNR is commemorating the event with a public art show in Conservation World during the 2024 Illinois State Fair, Aug. 8-18. The show is open to all, with categories for youth (17 and younger) and adults (18 and older). The entry deadline is Sunday, June 16, 2024.
“There’s a tremendous amount of interest in cicadas this year in Illinois. They’re fascinating insects, and I’m excited to see what artists from all over Illinois come up with. Artists can be as serious or as silly as they want with this challenge. Realistic, creative, wacky, whimsical, or kitsch – we’re here for it all. We think the cicadas would want it that way.” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie.
Original artwork should depict a cicada or a cicada brood. Acceptable materials include paper, canvas, photography, charcoal, pencil, colored pencil, markers, alcohol markers, ink, acrylic paint, oil paint, oil pastels, or watercolor paint. AI-generated artwork will not be accepted.
Artwork should be no larger than 18 x 24 inches. Initial entries must be submitted digitally with a clear, well-lit photo of the artwork and an online entry form. Finalists, selected by IDNR and Illinois State Museum panelists, will be asked to submit their original artwork by mail or drop-off. Entrants are responsible for postage costs.
Fairgoers can vote for their favorite cicada artwork via their phones during the fair. The People’s Choice winner will receive a prize from IDNR.
To enter, click HERE.
