March 17, 2026 – The Children’s Museum of Illinois is inviting families to take part in a community art project that explores the “power of play.” Participants will contribute to a guided art activity and have the option to participate in an anonymous audio interview, resulting in a collaborative mural and interactive display.
Three sessions are scheduled:
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Saturday, March 21, 9–10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of Illinois
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Saturday, April 4, 9–10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of Illinois
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Saturday, April 18, 10–11:30 a.m. at the Decatur Public Library (art component only)
During the sessions, families will create art pieces under the guidance of local artist Phil Murillo. Participants may also appear in a video highlighting play experiences from childhood to the present and can take part in anonymous audio interviews conducted by Starlight Creative Studios.
The completed art pieces will be combined into a large mural that will travel throughout the community. The mural will include an interactive button that plays audio from community members discussing the role of play.
The project is part of Healing Illinois, which promotes racial healing in communities, and is supported by the Illinois Department of Human Services and the Field Foundation.
Families interested in participating can register online at cmofil.org.
