The Great ARTdoors overview photo

The Great ARTdoors

  • Duration:Temporary
  • Location:Champaign/Urbana Parks

(date) 6/7/2021–10/31/2021

The past year has brought about challenges that no one among us could have predicted. After months and months of uncertainty, unrest, and immeasurable loss, we are moving toward a time of recovery, healing and unity. As we all search for ways to build back, the power of art can once again be channeled to create vibrancy, amplify voices, and provide refuge – with this type of revitalization in mind, the Great ARTdoors, a collaboration between the Spurlock Museum, the Urbana Park District, the Champaign Park District, the Urbana Arts and Culture Program, and 40 North, is kicking off a new cycle of awarding selected local artists stipends to create outdoor art installations in several Champaign and Urbana parks and community gardens. This program is once again guided by the belief that public art has the ability to visually and intellectually activate outdoor spaces by connecting people and sparking dialogue. This project is also committed to supporting local artists, prioritizing underserved communities, and ensuring accessibility for all. The selected pieces will remain on display through October 31.

  • A kite with geometric rainbow-colored patterns being framed against the sky
  • Three wolves are showing on digital panels in dark blues and purples and sunset tones
  • Bright blue tentacles with screws on them

Artists and Locations:


Marker images credit to 40North

Another element of the Great ARTdoors is the outdoor community gallery. Community members are encouraged to be creative by transforming their windows, balconies, porches, yards, and neighborhoods into art that expresses their thoughts and feelings. This outdoor gallery inspires neighbors to further explore their neighborhoods while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Please share images of your creations on all social media platforms using hashtag #cuARTdoors.

The Great ARTdoors is organized by the Spurlock Museum, the Urbana Park District, the Champaign Park District, the Urbana Arts and Culture Program, and 40 North.